Beschreibung:

Rolex Ref. 5513
Manufacturer: Rolex Year: 1970 Reference No: 5513 Case No: 2'837'865 Model Name: Submariner "COMEX" Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 1520, 26 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster, reference 93150, end links stamped 580, max length 205mm. Clasp/Buckle: Twin lock deployant clasp and diver extension Dimensions: 39.5mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed. Outercase further engraved Rolex COMEX 58, inside caseback 586 and III.70 Catalogue Essay As of the late 1960s, Rolex exclusively supplied different Submariner and Sea-Dweller models featuring the patented helium escape valve, to COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d’Expertise) in Marseilles. They were issued to their specialist divers with each watch marked Comex on the dial and numbered on the rear. A gas escape valve was fitted within the case to release built up pressure, preventing the watches from exploding when they surfaced from the depths of the oceans. The early “COMEX” reference 5513 offered here is part of the family of some of the rarest of all Submariner models. “COMEX” watches were reserved exclusively for the firm and were never available to the public through commercial production. According to the current owner, the watch was purchased from a very good friend of his, who lived in Aberdeen, Scotland. His friend was an ex-North Sea diver and he was originally given the watch in the 1970's by COMEX, who presented it to him, in recognition of completing the company’s first successful contract, linked to the development of the North Sea oil industry. He wore the watch on many dives around the world. It then went to the current owner in the 1980's, himself a keen diver and sailor, who also used this watch daily, in fair and foul weather, as he skippered his own fishing/dive boat. Watches from Rolex such as the Military Submariner and as in this example here, the Comex, had a special numbering feature. Each inside case back, would bear the full serial number (or in some instances the last 3 digits) and this would then correspond to the number found between the lugs at the 6 o'clock position. It is not uncommon that 'Mil Subs' and 'Comex' watches can be found to have 'non matching' case backs. It is believed by collectors, that at the time in the 1970's and 1980's, they were serviced in batches and this would just be a simple watchmakers error. One has to remember they were important watches in terms of their important use for divers, but not for their monetary value. The watch offered here is in completely unrestored condition. Its scratched and scuffed original domed crystal is a true testimony of its active life, while the intact luminous hour markers and hands have beautifully aged to a dark cream color. These unique watches are true tool watches, never available to the public; making the present lot a great opportunity for collectors of rare sports watches. Read More