Rolex

Made upon special request for the British Ministry of Defense, The Military Submariner was issued from the 1972 to 1976. As these watches were specifically made for the military, the MOD had specific features for a watch that would meet their requirements. The requirements would include fixed bars, oversized 60-minute fully graduated bezel, large luminous sword hands, and a luminous dial with an encircled “T” indicating the use of low-radiation tritium.

Research suggests that there are a total of three references available for the Military Submariner: 5513, 5517/5513 (double reference), and 5517. Four different dial variations were available, as well: non-serif dial, serif dial, pre-Comex, and lastly maxi dial. 

The present double-reference example is home to a maxi Mk I dial, showing a deep and even pumpkin patina, with sword hands that have aged slightly lighter than the dial. The later-added Mk III bezel insert has faded to a lovely and subtle lavender color, showing light wear from use. The case, while having been polished historically, remains thick and even and retains some of the original chamfer in all four corners. While the engraving on the case back has been worn off, the serial number stamped on the inside case back is clear and legible.

According to scholars, only 1500 examples of the Military Submariner were ever produced for the MoD, and less than a third of that remain in private hands today.