In the world of vintage Rolex watches, the Submariner holds a special place as one of the most iconic and sought-after models. Among the many variations of the Submariner, the reference 5517 stands out as a unique and rare piece that was specifically engineered to meet the stringent requirements of the British Ministry of Defence (MOD). The 5517 was not your average Submariner; it was a military-grade timepiece designed for use in extreme conditions. Let's delve into the history and features of the 1967 Rolex Submariner 5517, also known as the MilSub.
Rolex 5517 Submariner: A Brief History
The Rolex Submariner 5517 was produced in the mid-1960s and was part of a series of military-issued Submariners that were supplied to the British Royal Navy. These watches were built to meet the exacting specifications of the MOD, which required a durable and reliable timepiece for use in underwater operations. The 5517 was designed with fixed spring bars welded to the lugs, a feature that was intentionally incorporated to prevent the loss of the watch during missions.
Rolex 5517 MilSub: The Military Connection
The term "MilSub" is a colloquial way of referring to military-issued Submariners, such as the Rolex 5517. These watches were not available for sale to the general public and were exclusively issued to military personnel. The MilSub watches underwent rigorous testing to ensure their accuracy, durability, and water resistance, making them highly prized among collectors today.
The Rolex 5517 MilSub featured a number of modifications that set it apart from civilian Submariners of the same era. In addition to the fixed spring bars, the 5517 had a bezel insert made of Bakelite, a material known for its resistance to corrosion and fading. The dial of the 5517 also featured unique markings, such as the circled "T" indicating the presence of tritium lume, and the sword-shaped hands that were specific to military-issued Submariners.
Rolex 5517: A Collector's Dream
The Rolex Submariner 5517 is a highly coveted watch among collectors due to its rarity and historical significance. Only a limited number of 5517 watches were produced, and many of them were lost or damaged during military operations. This scarcity has driven up the value of the 5517, making it a prized addition to any serious Rolex collection.
One of the key factors that make the Rolex 5517 so desirable is its connection to military history. These watches were used by elite units of the British Royal Navy, including the Special Boat Service (SBS) and the Royal Marines, making them a symbol of bravery and service. Owning a Rolex 5517 is not just about owning a piece of horological history; it is also about honoring the sacrifices and achievements of those who wore these watches in the line of duty.
Rolex MilSub Submariner: The Legacy Lives On
While the Rolex Submariner 5517 was produced in the 1960s, its legacy continues to influence the world of horology today. The design and features of the 5517 have inspired modern watchmakers to create military-style timepieces that pay homage to the original MilSub. Brands like Tudor, Seiko, and Marathon have all produced watches that draw inspiration from the rugged and utilitarian design of the Rolex 5517.
Rolex MilSub 1970s: Evolution of a Classic
In the 1970s, Rolex continued to produce military-issued Submariners, with the reference 5513 being the most common model. While the 5513 lacked some of the specialized features of the 5517, such as the fixed spring bars and Bakelite bezel insert, it was still a reliable and robust timepiece that saw service in various military units around the world. The 5513 is also highly sought after by collectors, particularly those who appreciate its simplicity and understated elegance.
Rolex MilSub Parts: Restoring a Legend
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