
Rolex
1978 Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 – 5.5M Serial | Maxi 1 Dial
Ref. 5513 · 1978
HK$ 135,000
Available for immediate acquisition.
Technical Specification
year
1978
movement
Automatic
case & size
40mm
watch & type
Diver
condition
Fair
box & and & papers
Watch Only
Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 – 5.5M Serial | Maxi 1 Dial
A truly exceptional and highly collectible example of the iconic Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513, featuring a 5.5 million serial number and the extraordinarily rare Maxi 1 dial—the earliest and arguably one of the most desirable variations within the Maxi dial family.
What makes this particular example especially fascinating is the unusual combination of the extra-large Maxi hour markers with the early "660 ft / 200 m" depth rating and first-generation matte dial configuration. This distinctive dial variant represents an important period in the evolution of the Submariner's matte dial design and is highly sought after by collectors for its rarity and strong visual presence.
The dial and hands have developed a beautiful, naturally aged patina over the decades, with the lume plots and hands displaying an attractive and harmonious tone. The result is a characterful and authentic appearance that can only come from years of natural aging.
And don't be fooled by the scratches.
This is a watch that has genuinely lived its life—and, importantly, the case remains truly unpolished. The original case geometry is exceptionally well preserved, with thick, full lugs and strong case proportions that clearly demonstrate the substantial amount of original metal still present. The honest surface wear is part of the watch's history and, to the serious collector, adds to its authenticity rather than detracting from it.
Finding a 5.5M serial Ref. 5513 with such a rare Maxi 1 dial is already a challenge. Finding one with beautiful natural patina, matching hands, and a genuinely unpolished case with thick, full lugs is considerably harder.
A remarkable collector's Submariner that represents not only the timeless appeal of the Ref. 5513, but also a fascinating and important chapter in the evolution of Rolex's iconic matte dial design.
Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513
Serial: 5.5M
Dial: Maxi 1 – First Maxi Dial
Configuration: Early 660 ft / 200 m Matte Dial
Lume: Beautiful Natural Patina
Hands: Matching Natural Patina
Case: Truly Unpolished, Thick Case & Full Lugs
Condition: Honest Vintage Wear with Excellent Original Case Geometry
A watch for the collector who values originality, rarity, and character above perfection.





