Rolex Submariner 5513 Mark I Maxi Dial

Introduction

The Rolex Submariner 5513 stands as one of the most recognisable dive watches ever produced, with a production span from 1962 to 1989. Throughout this time, the reference evolved steadily, moving from gilt dials to matte tritium versions and, later, glossy dials with white gold surrounds. One of the most notable points of change occurred in the late 1970s with the introduction of the Maxi dials, which featured larger and more prominent luminous plots.

An example from the mid-5 million serial range belongs to this important moment of transition. It carries the earliest version of the Maxi dial — known as the Mark I — which brought a new visual identity to the Submariner 5513 while still retaining its purposeful tool-watch roots.

The 5513 in the Submariner Timeline

Rolex introduced the 5513 in 1962 as the simpler counterpart to the 5512. While the 5512 was chronometer-certified, the 5513 was not, making it more affordable while still offering the full robustness of the Oyster case and the same rotating bezel system. Over the decades, the 5513 remained the archetypal no-date Submariner, its longevity reflecting both its practicality and timeless design.

By the 1970s, the model had moved from the glossy gilt dials of the 1960s into the era of matte dials with tritium lume. It was during this decade that Rolex gradually refined the case, bracelet, and dial typography, keeping the watch contemporary while preserving its essential character. The introduction of the Maxi dials at the end of the decade marked one of the most visually significant shifts in its long run.

The Maxi Dial Era

The Maxi dials are defined by their enlarged tritium plots, which not only improved legibility underwater but also gave the Submariner a bolder, more modern look. There are five recognised variants, with the Mark I being the earliest and most distinct.

Key Traits of the Mark I Maxi Dial

• “SUBMARINER” positioned below the depth rating, a layout unique to the Mark I.
• The equals sign in “660ft = 200m” sits directly above the “A” in “SUBMARINER.”
• A slender, elongated coronet crowns the dial, tapering neatly at its base.
• The “S” in SUBMARINER has a slightly angular, zig-zag style.
• The lume plots are clearly larger than earlier matte dials, filling more space at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock markers.

This dial configuration was introduced in the late 1970s, around the mid-5 million serial range, and represents the beginning of Rolex’s Maxi dial period.

Case and Bezel

The stainless steel Oyster case measured 40mm, with crown guards and a depth rating of 200 metres. Its brushed lugs and polished sides gave it a purposeful yet refined look, consistent with Rolex’s approach to its professional models.

The bezel remained bidirectional with an aluminium insert. These inserts, particularly in watches from this era, are known to fade over time, developing hues from deep grey to light blue, each giving the watch its own personality. A tritium pearl at the zero marker would have been standard when new.

Bracelet Options

During this period, Rolex was phasing out the folded-link 9315 Oyster bracelet in favour of the more substantial 93150 with solid links. An example from the mid-5 million range could be found with either bracelet, though the 9315 is most often seen. The 9315 had a lighter feel due to its folded construction, while the 93150 introduced a sturdier build that became the standard moving forward. Both bracelets were paired with 580 end links and featured the Oyster flip-lock clasp with a diver’s extension.

Movement: Calibre 1520

At the heart of the 5513 was the Rolex calibre 1520. This automatic movement was known for its robustness and reliability, despite not being chronometer-certified. It beat at 19,800 vibrations per hour in earlier examples, later updated to 21,600, and provided central hours, minutes, and seconds. With its straightforward design, it suited the no-date Submariner perfectly, emphasising function and dependability.

The Submariner in the Late 1970s

The Submariner of the late 1970s represented Rolex at a pivotal point. The brand’s watches were still heavily tied to their tool-watch origins, designed for divers and professionals, yet they were increasingly worn as symbols of success and style. The Maxi dial captured both of these aspects: the larger plots offered greater visibility in low-light conditions, but also made the watch stand out more in everyday settings.

The Mark I Maxi in particular reflects Rolex’s willingness to experiment subtly with design, introducing new proportions and dial layouts while retaining the identity that had defined the Submariner since 1953.

Historical Importance of the Mark I Maxi

Within the broader Submariner story, the Mark I Maxi dial holds an important place. It marks the beginning of the Maxi period and is unique in its text arrangement, with “SUBMARINER” sitting below the depth rating — a feature not repeated in later variants. Watches in the mid-5 million serial range represent this short-lived but significant configuration.

As Rolex moved into the 1980s, later Maxi variants appeared, and eventually glossy dials with white gold surrounds took over. The Mark I therefore stands as a transitional design, bridging the traditional matte dials of the early 1970s with the more assertive style of the 1980s.

Wearing the 5513 Mark I Maxi Today

On the wrist, the Mark I Maxi 5513 feels timeless. Its 40mm case is perfectly proportioned for modern wear, while the slimmer profile compared to later Submariners adds to its comfort. The larger lume plots give the dial more presence and legibility, offering a distinctive look compared to earlier small-plot matte dials.

Over the years, tritium lume has often aged into warm cream or yellow tones, giving each watch a unique character. Paired with a faded bezel insert and a folded-link bracelet, the watch carries the charm of a true late-1970s Submariner while remaining highly wearable today.

The 5513’s Role in the Submariner Family

The Submariner 5513’s long production run makes it one of the cornerstones of the Rolex catalogue. It connects eras — from gilt to matte, from tritium to Luminova — while remaining consistently faithful to the Submariner’s identity.

The Mark I Maxi represents a turning point in that journey. It introduced a new dial language that would influence Submariners for years to come, and its rarity and distinctive features make it one of the most interesting chapters in the reference’s history.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Submariner 5513 Mark I Maxi dial stands as a defining watch of the late 1970s. With its enlarged tritium plots, unique dial layout, and robust Oyster case, it captures a moment when Rolex was refining the Submariner’s design while keeping its tool-watch spirit intact.

For anyone tracing the evolution of the Submariner, the Mark I Maxi is a key milestone — the beginning of a new era for one of Rolex’s most enduring references.

• Case & bracelet in great vintage condition, sharp lugs with some chamferring still visible. 
• Bracelet is original 9315 folded oyster with some stretch, as expected with age. 

• Dial very good condition
• Hands Service