tudor 5513 | original tudor submariner watch

The Tudor Submariner 5513. The mere mention of the reference number sends shivers down the spines of vintage watch collectors. It represents a confluence of robust functionality, classic design, and a heritage deeply intertwined with that of its more famous sibling, Rolex. But the Tudor Submariner, and particularly the 5513, is far more than just a "budget Rolex." It embodies Tudor's own unique ethos and offers a compelling story of horological evolution. In this article, we'll explore the world of vintage Tudor Submariners, with a particular focus on the coveted 5513, delving into its history, design nuances, and collectibility. We'll also touch upon other significant models that shaped the Tudor Submariner legacy, including the 7924, 79190, 76100, and discuss the movements that powered these iconic timepieces, paying special attention to the Tudor ETA 2483.

The Genesis of the Tudor Submariner: A Mission of Accessibility

To understand the appeal of the 5513, we must first appreciate the vision of Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex. Wilsdorf recognized the need for a more accessible, yet still high-quality, watch brand. In 1946, he established Montres Tudor SA, with the intention of producing watches that shared the robust engineering and elegant design of Rolex, but at a more attainable price point. This was the driving force behind the Tudor brand – offering reliable and stylish timepieces to a wider audience.

The Submariner was a natural choice for Tudor, given Rolex's pioneering success with the model. The diving watch was gaining immense popularity, driven by the burgeoning underwater exploration and recreational diving scene. Tudor's Submariners were designed to meet the same demanding standards as their Rolex counterparts, providing professional divers and enthusiasts alike with a dependable and legible timepiece for underwater adventures.

The Tudor Submariner 7924: The "Big Crown" Ancestor

Before we dive into the specifics of the 5513, it's crucial to acknowledge its predecessors. The Tudor Submariner 7924, introduced in 1958, is arguably the most important early Submariner model. Often referred to as the "Big Crown" due to its prominent 8mm winding crown (borrowed directly from Rolex), the 7924 was Tudor's first dedicated diving watch. It featured a robust case, a rotating bezel for tracking elapsed dive time, and a depth rating of 100 meters. The 7924 laid the foundation for the design language that would define the Tudor Submariner line for decades to come. Its rarity and historical significance make it one of the most sought-after Tudor watches among collectors.

The Tudor Submariner 5513: A Detailed Examination

The Tudor Submariner 5513, produced from the late 1960s to the early 1980s, is a quintessential example of the brand's commitment to functionality and affordability. While visually similar to the Rolex Submariner 5513, crucial differences set it apart and contribute to its unique appeal.

* Case and Dimensions: The 5513 utilizes a stainless-steel case with the same dimensions as the Rolex 5513 (approximately 40mm in diameter). The case is robust and well-proportioned, making it comfortable to wear on a variety of wrist sizes. The lugs are typically drilled, allowing for easy strap changes. The caseback is often engraved with the "Tudor" name and the reference number.

* Dial and Hands: The dial of the Tudor 5513 is a key differentiator. While Rolex used glossy dials with applied indices on their 5513 models, Tudor typically employed matte dials with painted indices. These dials often feature a distinctive "snowflake" hand configuration, characterized by square hour markers on the hour hand. Some early examples may feature "Mercedes" hands, similar to those found on Rolex Submariners. The dial markings typically include the Tudor shield logo, the "Tudor" name, "Oyster-Prince," and "Submariner" along with depth rating (often "200m = 660ft").

* Bezel: The bezel of the 5513 is unidirectional, a crucial safety feature for divers. It allows them to track elapsed time underwater and ensures that accidental movement of the bezel will only result in an overestimate of dive time, rather than an underestimate. The bezel insert is typically made of aluminum and features markings for the first 15 minutes, followed by individual minute markers. The pip at the 12 o'clock position is often luminous.tudor 5513