Exceptional 1979 Rolex Submariner 5513 “Maxi Mark 3”

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Superb example of Rolex Submariner, reference 5513 with matte dial so-called “Maxi Mark 3”, produced in 1979 (serial number 622xxxx).
There is no need to the introduce the Submariner anymore, as it is perhaps the most famous watch in the world. The reference 5513 was manufactured from 1962 to 1989. During these 27 years of production, numerous dials were used by Rolex. Among all, the collecting community quickly singled out the Maxi Mk 3 as one of the most desirable matte dials due to its oversized tritium indexes which give it an irresistible charm.
It is precisely this variation that we are pleased to present. In superb overall condition, with a very thick case, sharp lugs and defined chamfers, fully serviced by an experienced watchmaker and coming from the personal collection of one of the greatest French vintage Rolex experts, this Submariner 5513 Maxi Mark 3 is a rare opportunity for all the passionate collectors.

Detailed description

The world of watchmaking has never been the same since Rolex launched the first Submariner in 1953. Today it is considered a benchmark for collectible watches of all types and has since served as an inspiration for countless other sports models. The Rolex Submariner, one of the most iconic and desirable watches of all time, has been worn by countless personalities – from the worlds of diving, the arts, science and politics. Let's just mention a few names here: Sean Connery in James Bond vs. Dr. No, Steve McQueen, Robert Redford, Alain Delon, Jacques Cousteau, Eric Clapton, Rafael Nadal, and even Che Guevara!

At Amplitude, we are fascinated by the Rolex Submariner. Among all the production variants, one vintage reference captures our attention more than any other: the 5513. Rolex offered the reference 5513 from 1962 to 1989. During these 27 years of production, numerous dials were used. These are traditionally separated into 3 groups: lacquered/Gilt dials, matte dials, and finally glossy dials with white gold surroundings markers at the end of the production. Among the matte dials, the collectors community has distinguished 9 variants, within which is a group of 5, nicknamed the “Maxi Dials”. Among these 5, one of, if not the most desirable is the one that we have the pleasure of presenting: the Maxi Mark 3.

Indeed, the Maxi Mk III dial presents a particular serif on “f” of the depth rating in feet, but above all oversized tritium indexes compared to the other variants – they almost all touch the outdoor timer! This graphic specificity, sometimes also nicknamed "Lollipop", gives a particularly balanced appearance to this 5513, and contributes to this general feeling of timeless "purity": only 2 lines of text at 6 o'clock, no date window, a characteristic curved plexiglas crystal, a robust case and a highly reliable movement.

Our 5513, produced in 1979, boasts a superb matte black “Maxi Mark 3” dial. Over time, the luminescent material on the indexes and hands has developed a wonderful, homogeneous eggshell patina. The case is exceptionally well preserved, with broad and very defined chamfers. The Oyster bracelet in stainless steel, reference 93150, end pieces 580, suits it perfectly. In excellent overall condition, it has become very difficult to find comparable models. This watch exudes a particular warmth and presence on the wrist. It embodies the DNA of professional Rolexes better than any other. Coming from the personal collection of one of France's greatest vintage Rolex experts and fully serviced by an experienced watchmaker, this Submariner 5513 Maxi Mark 3 is a rare opportunity for all the passionate collectors.

Condition

This Submariner 5513 is in superb overall condition – it has become extremely difficult to find such attractive examples!
The rare and sought-after matte “Maxi Mark 3” dial is in excellent condition, with no blemishes nor scratches. Over time, the luminescent material on the indexes and hands has developed a magnificent, even eggshell patina, which adds a typically vintage “warmth”. We simply note that the tritium of the index at 2 o'clock has partially crumbled, as is often the case on this dial variant, without this affecting either the readability or the overall aesthetic balance of the watch.
The case is exceptionally well preserved, with large and very defined chamfers. We deduce that this watch has been particularly little polished since its birth 45 years ago.
The bezel is very sharp and its bold insert is deep black, with a patinated tritium pearl matching the markers and hands.
The Oyster bracelet, reference 93150 with 580 end-links, buckle code I8, is also in excellent condition.
In brief, a superbly preserved and today particularly desirable Submariner.

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Specifications

General characteristics

Object ID : BHYE
Brand: Rolex
Model: Submariner
Reference : 5513
Year: Circa 1979
Gender: Men's watch / Unisex
Delivered with: Amplitude Steel Warranty Card
Crystal type:
Plexiglass
Dial color:
Black
Dial markers: No numerals

Case

Case material: Stainless Steel
Case shape:
Round
Case back: Full, screw-down
Bezel material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions/Diameter: 40mm

Movement

Type: Self-winding
Caliber: Rolex 1520
Frequency: 19,800 vph (2.75 Hz)
Functions:

Bracelet/Strap

Bracelet/Strap: Rolex Oyster in stainless steel, reference 93150, end pieces 580, buckle code I8 (made in August 1984)
Bracelet/Strap color: Stainless Steel
Bracelet/Strap material: Stainless Steel
Buckle/Clasp type: Fold clasp
Buckle/Clasp material: Stainless Steel
Lug width: 20mm

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MODEL

The Rolex Submariner: The Legendary Professional Watch

The Rolex Submariner, whose debut dates back to 1953, is one of the most iconic and influential diving watches in the history of watchmaking. Originally designed for professional divers, it quickly gained popularity thanks to its unique combination of robustness, precision and timeless elegance. In continuous production for more than 70 years, numerous models with and without date display have succeeded one another, each more resistant, waterproof, precise and technical than the previous one.

The first Rolex Submariners, references 6204 and 6205, were manufactured from 1953 and presented for the first time at the Basel Watch Fair in 1954. Water resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet), the Submariner was the first wristwatch capable of withstanding such pressures. This innovation was made possible by Rolex's patented Oyster case, which revolutionized the way waterproof watches were built. Its design was both functional and aesthetic, with a sleek black dial, luminescent Mercedes hands and a unidirectional rotating bezel for measuring dive times.

Over the decades, the Submariner has undergone several technical and stylistic evolutions. In 1959, reference 5512 introduced crown guards, while in 1962 reference 5513 offered a more accessible alternative, without chronometer certification. In 1967, the Submariner Date, reference 1680, added a date window magnified by a Cyclops loupe, thus increasing its functionality for everyday use.

In 1978, the reference 16800 incorporated a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for the first time on a Submariner, increased the depth rating to 300 meters, and housed an improved automatic movement, the caliber 3035. In 1989, the reference 16610 saw the appearance of the caliber 3135, renowned for its precision and durability.

Modern models, like the references 116610LN and 114060, introduced at the turn of the 2010s, feature scratch-resistant Cerachrom ceramic bezels, Chromalight indexes and hands, offering long-lasting blue luminescence for better readability in the dark, and Oyster bracelets with improved safety clasps. The latest versions of the Submariner continue to push the boundaries of diving watches. The reference 126610LN, launched in 2020, is equipped with caliber 3235, offering a power reserve of 70 hours and further improved precision.

Despite numerous technical and aesthetic developments, the Rolex Submariner has maintained, throughout its 70 years of production, its timeless aesthetic, with refined and legible dials, mainly black, luminescent indexes, a case in stainless steel, gold or two-tone, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and distinctive Mercedes hands.

The Rolex Submariner is an undisputed icon of watchmaking, combining technical performance and an instantly recognizable look. Since its beginnings in 1953, it has evolved to incorporate cutting-edge innovations while preserving the elements that have made it famous. A symbol of innovation, quality and style, whether you are a professional diver, a watch collector or simply a lover of beautiful objects, the Submariner remains an unrivaled choice for those seeking horological excellence.