The SAGA:
Production on matte dial 5513 Submariners ran from ~1966-1984. Around 1966, Rolex switched from a gilt/glossy black, to a matte black dial texture on many of their models. Thus, the “meters first” matte dial was born. This particular type of 5513 Sub was so-named the due to the arrangement of the depth rating: “200m = 660ft.”
From 5513mattedial.com: “While the text on the 5513 Meters First matte dials are pretty uniform, the application of the tritium is different. Those dials with the tritium applied early in the production run have a very thin layer of tritium and can appear very white. On these dials it may be hard to detect the tritium without a loupe. It is not uncommon for those dials in the middle of the run to have the tritium appear more dome-like. For the dials seen near the end of the production run the tritium is applied in a flat layer more akin to the manner seen during the rest of the 70’s.”
Tech Specs:
Year of manufacture: 1969
Serial Number: 198XXXX
Dial: Excellent “meters first” dial with flat-style tritium plots that have aged to a straw color. The hands match the dial patina, but are likely a zinc sulfide luminous compound. Not uncommon for this era of meters first 5513. Some earlier batches had zinc sulfide dials, as well. Slight amount of luminous material missing from the top right corner of the six o’clock marker.
Bezel insert: Fat font, kissing-40, mk III bezel insert. Luminous pearl matches the dial quite well. very minimal wear and takes on a deep, navy blue color in bright sunlight.
Case: excellent, possibly unpolished case with very prominant original chamfers present on the lugs. Lug holes are exceedingly sharp, with no signs of “dishing.”
Bracelet: Excellent US C&I rivet bracelet with fixed end links. It shows wear commensurate with the case, but has only light stretch.
Movement: Non-hacking Rolex caliber 1520.
Accessories: Adopting the metric system when describing your watch.
Watch is currently running at COSC spec