Rolex

Throughout the 1970s Rolex supplied watches to the British Military for use by the Special Forces, namely the Rolex Submariner. Over the course of the decade, around 1200 pieces were manufactured for the Armed Forces. Nonetheless, it is believed that only a few hundred pieces have survived. Utilizing references 5513, 5513/5517 and 5517, the watches were altered to meet strict military specifications and as such are especially collectible. These special pieces had their dials marked with a letter T above the depth rating, the lugs feature fixed bars, and the case backs engraved with a Military issue number, supply date and the famous ‘Broad Arrow’. As opposed to the 5517, the reference 5513 came with any combination of hands (standard or Sword) or bezels (calibrated to 15 or 60 units).

Dubbed the "Milsub" by collectors, the modifications made have now become renowned in the vintage watch world. What’s more, given the conditions and environments that they were made to endure, examples in good condition are incredibly sought after, and examples featuring the famous ‘Sword’ hands even more so.

The present lot is typical of the Milsub reference 5513 and has remained in the same private collection for over two decades. Its extremely well-preserved dial has a warm yellow patina and matching original sword hands, giving this piece strong character and presence on the wrist.