The allure of a Rolex, particularly a vintage military-issued Submariner, is undeniable. The prestige, the history, the robust construction – all contribute to the enduring fascination with these timepieces. For members of the armed forces, the dream of owning such a watch is often intertwined with a sense of earned reward and recognition of service. And for those serving, the Navy Exchange (NEX) offers a potential avenue to acquire these coveted pieces, often at competitive prices, echoing their motto: "You Serve, You Save." But navigating the world of vintage military Rolex Submariners, specifically the 5513 and 5517 models often found (or sought after) through channels like the NEX, requires careful consideration and a discerning eye. This article will delve into the specifics of these iconic watches, their history, their value, and the realities of finding them through the Navy Exchange.
The Legend of the Military Submariner:
The Rolex Submariner, in its various iterations, has a long and storied history with military organizations worldwide. While Rolex never officially supplied watches directly marked "military issue" in large quantities to navies, many Submariners, particularly the references 5513 and 5517, found their way into the hands of divers and special forces personnel through various channels. These watches became synonymous with underwater operations, renowned for their reliability, water resistance, and durability in extreme conditions. The "MilSub" moniker, a common abbreviation for "military Submariner," signifies these specific models adapted for military use, featuring unique characteristics that distinguish them from their civilian counterparts.
The Rolex Submariner 5513:
The Rolex Submariner 5513 holds a legendary status among collectors. Produced for an extended period, from the late 1960s to the early 1980s, this reference saw numerous variations, making identifying a specific "military" version a complex undertaking. Many 5513s ended up in military service, often acquired through individual purchases or government contracts. These watches often exhibit features that hint at their military provenance, though definitive proof can be elusive. These features might include:
* Markings: While the absence of overt military markings doesn't necessarily disqualify a watch, the presence of specific engravings or markings can significantly increase its value and authenticity as a military-issued piece. However, caution is advised, as fraudulent markings are not uncommon.
* Dial Variations: Certain dial variations, such as specific font styles, lume plots (the luminous material on the hands and markers), and the presence or absence of a date window, are often associated with military-supplied watches. However, these variations can be subtle and require expert examination.
* Case Backs: The case back engravings can provide clues. Some military-supplied watches may have specific engravings or lack the typical Rolex crown markings.
* Hands: The shape and style of the hands can also offer clues, with certain types being more common in military-issued watches.
The Rolex Submariner 5517:
The Rolex Submariner 5517, often referred to as the "MilSub" par excellence, is even rarer than the 5513. This reference, produced in smaller numbers, is widely believed to have been specifically supplied to the British Ministry of Defence. Key characteristics that distinguish the 5517 include:
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