ROLEX | SUBMARINER "SOUTH AFRICAN ARMY", REF 5513, MILITARY STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELET, CIRCA 1970

The military Rolex watches are regarded as the grail tool watches by collectors. They perfectly embody the spirit of the crowned brand and the need of reliable pieces used in extreme conditions. In addition to this, they possess unique features testifying their affiliations with their prestigious past. The most famous one is the Submariner issued for the Royal British Navy. Nonetheless, some pieces were also supplied to other military forces. 

One of the rarest military Rolex is the 5513 supplied to the South African Army.

While many things have been written about other Milsubs, the South African 5513 is still a terra incognita and the market is today only starting to understand its importance.

Like some other military Rolex such has the Fuerza Aerea del Perù (known as FAP), there is no alteration or modification made to the model. On the wrist, the South African 5513 looks like a normal Submariner of that time, giving the pleasant feeling to his owner of carrying a hidden treasure. Nonetheless, the outside of the case back reveals the engraved serial number. Interestingly, the serial number is not repeated between the lugs. This is the only element that affiliates the piece to its special provenance. 

It is no exaggeration to state that these pieces appear extremely rarely on the market, increasing their mysterious aura. The present lot is indeed the first one to be presented in an international auction, including in this saleroom, for many years. 

The appearance of such a piece is an important event for the watch community. What is even more exciting is the quality of this specimen. The watch has been preserved in excellent condition, with a stunning late meters first dial and matching hands and bezel. The case retains strong proportions and still shows attractive bevels. The piece is fitted on its rare 7206 bracelet with 80 endlinks. The condition of the watch could make one forget, for a second, its exceptional provenance. 

Presented on behalf of an important private collector, this watch certainly is a fascinating testimony of Rolex's unique history.