Vintage
DrStrong's compelling article delves into the extraordinary history of his Rolex Comex Submariner 5514, a true 'toolwatch' with a documented past. By acquiring the watch directly from its original owner, a diver who used it extensively in demanding offshore operations, DrStrong provides an unparalleled narrative that enriches the understanding of this rare reference. This piece is a testament to the enduring allure of watches with authentic, hard-earned provenance.
Like people, some watches are very special: they are not only rare models, but have a history that make them unique, an aura that definitely makes the difference for a collector who likes the concept of âtoolwatchâ.
In late 2010, I was lucky enough to buy a Submariner 5514 from the original owner. Being able to meet the first owner of such a watch, to discuss with him during several hours and getting full documentation is really a rare experience for someone who is interested in the history of Rolex and in the extreme use of their vintahe sports models.
In the 1970's, the man has worked as a crane operator and diver for the French companies Foramer, GTM Entrepose and E.T.P.M. (Entreprise de Travaux Publics Multiples), that used to install pipelines all over the world for the oil companies
(Photo: ETPM)
(Photos: private collection)
He was mostly assigned to the 1601 barge, whose lifting performance was 1600 tons.
(Photos: private collection)
He has worked on projects in Qatar, Gabon, Congo, Iran, Abu Dhadi, Argentina, Mexico, etc...
(Photos: private collection)
From the late 1970's to the mid 1980's, he worked as a free-lance diver for Comex. He was given his Submariner ref. 5514 in 1977 and has used it for all his saturation dives up to -300m in the cold water of the North Sea. This is quite remarkable for a watch whose water tightness is only supposed to be 200m ! But thatâs not the first time I hear such a story, which explains why Comex only needed so few Sea Dwellers (600m waterproof) until the end of the 1970âs.
(Photo: private collection)
He used to perform 12 hours long dives in order to check underwater pipelines and then had to stay for three weeks in the decompression chamber with his collegues.
He has worn the watch continuously for more than thirty years, until 2009 when it stopped working.
He then had it serviced by J. Bianchi in Marseille, the watchmaker that used to service all the Rolex and Omega watches for Comex. When he was told the value of the watch, he decided to sell it.
The reference 5514 was manufactured especially for COMEX and its divers and never sold by retailers. It was delivered after the successful testing of the 5513 with Helium Escape Valve and COMEX made a special order of these watches.
There are three different batches of 5514âs that were delivered to Comex through the 1970âs, each batch being composed of watches with serial numbers very close to each others and sharing the same characteristics in terms of caseback engravings.
You can see that my watch has been used and abused and still has the scars from itâs adventurous life: a little bit of tritium is missing on each index of the dial, probably the effect of sun, temperature changes or moisture. The bezel has completely faded from black to grey for similar reasons.... and also because of salted water !
I like the caseback engraving, the details of the dial...
The Rolex Submariner reference 5513 is a notable example within the Submariner line, distinguished by its two-line dial and lack of a date complication. Produced for an extended period, it represents a core offering for collectors seeking a straightforward and robust tool watch. Its design emphasizes legibility and functionality, aligning with the original purpose of the Submariner series. This reference is recognized for its consistent aesthetic throughout its production run, with subtle variations in dial text and bezel inserts.
The watch features a 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, offering durability and water resistance suitable for its intended use. Powering the reference 5513 is the automatic Caliber 1520 movement, known for its reliability. The crystal is acrylic, contributing to the vintage character of the watch. The unidirectional rotating bezel, typically with an aluminum insert, allows for elapsed time measurement.
For collectors, the reference 5513 is a significant model due to its long production history and the various dial iterations, such as gilt and matte dials, which present distinct collecting opportunities. Its appeal lies in its foundational design and its position as a non-date Submariner, making it a desirable piece for those who appreciate the model's original form. The watch is often paired with an Oyster bracelet, completing its functional aesthetic.
The scars of its past life adds a lot of charm to this watch. Fantastic addition, my friend. Congratulations. Nicolas.
thank you for sharing this one with us All the best Damjan
Right from the source and with such an interesting history that is well documented. Congrats Jeff & wear it proud! Best F
Thanks for this story Jeff, this way you can really understand the history regarding these treasures! The cool thing is the guy has worn (and "abused")the watch for 30 years on, bringing it in for service and being told the value ... . Cheerio, Filip
Authentic and fully documented as we like them! And to me the fact that there are signs of the real life of the watch adds value! A great addition to your state of the art collection! Awaiting the group shot with the DRSD and the Proplof! Matt
I love how the piece's entire history was documented. Thank you for sharing and enjoy that beauty in good health...
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