Comex Rolex Submariner 5513

An extremely RARE early Rolex Comex Submariner 5513 prototype. These watches are extremely finite in production numbers and seldom become available. The Rolex Comex submariner is one of the most sought after watches by collectors worldwide and the early Comex 5513 Submariner prototype has a special and distinguished place in Rolex history.

During the early 1970’s Rolex produced circa 250 prototype 5513 Submariners to deep water test as a Comex watch. These vintage Rolex 5513 cased watches were uniquely fitted with a helium escape valve to the left hand side of the case to disperse helium from inside the watch case as the concentration of this gas grew at greater depths. Successful testing of these watches lead to Rolex contractually producing a unique serial range of watches for Comex designated the Rolex 5514 Comex Submariner.

Initially these watches did not feature the Comex logo and have a caseback engraving unique to these 5513 Rolex Comex. This watch however not only comes with its original non logo dial but also a rare later tritium gloss service logo dial as seen in the pictures.

A truly rare piece of history with very high ongoing investment potential and a unique vintage submariner.

Rolex Comex Submariner 5513 (Prototype)

Dial & Hands: The watch comes with both its original matte non logo Rolex dial and later gloss tritium logo Comex dial with matching hands. Lovely greying fat font insert with creamy tritium pearl.

Case & Caseback: 3.5m serial with all numbers clearly readable between the lugs. Thick Rolex case that is correctly stamped 71, 5513 and with the all important matching serial number of the watch inside the caseback.

Movement: Original serviced hacking Rolex 1520 movement in excellent condition.

Bracelet: The watch is wearing its original Rolex 9315 folded link bracelet with Rolex 580 end pieces and fliplock clasp stamped 4 71.

Box & Papers: This watch was given a full mechanical service by Rolex UK and comes with the service warranty certificate and service box. In addition the watch has a letter from Henry Hudson of Rolex UK and Geneva confirmation that the watch is an original Rolex Comex issued watch and the date of issue.