The Military Submariner, or Milsub, is imbued with history. Made upon special request for the British Ministry of Defense, Milsubs were worn during combat and on special missions. Research suggests that approximately 1500 units were delivered, from 1971 to 1979 and less than a few hundred survive today in original condition. The present example, a double reference 5513/5517, displays reference 5513 between the lugs, and 5517 engraved under the lug.

John Goldbeger's Opinion

All Milsubs display special characteristics requested by the British government. While the Milsub’s subtleties are aesthetically pleasing to collectors today, these nuances were designed for specific military purposes. All dials displayed a military designated ‘T’ within a circle, which was the international symbol for Tritium. Most examples were also fitted with sword hands. Another feature was the 60-minute revolving bezel insert, instead of the typical 15-minute calibrated bezel. The government also requested a hack feature, non-reflective case and fixed bar lugs.

Finally, all watches displayed military engravings on the case back. ‘W-10’ watches were recorded by Rolex as being delivered to the Central Ordanance depot in Donnington, England for onward delivery to the Army Air Corp.The inside case back on this watch is repeated with the serial number, which is correct for a special order watch.

The characteristics above are all displayed on the present watch, which is very impressive. Reference 5513/5517’s particular components were never available for civilians, nor were they ever mass-produced. The existence of this watch is thus incredibly rare today.