Few vintage Submariners capture the character of the early gilt era quite like this Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 “Bart Simpson.” Dating to 1966 with a 1.47 million serial, this early Meters First example combines a beautifully aged tropical gilt dial with the distinctive coronet that gives this rare variant its nickname.
The dial is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the watch. Its deep, glossy black lacquer surface features warm gilt printing and minute track, complemented by original tritium lume plots that have developed a rich custard-colored patina. Over the decades, the dial has developed attractive natural spotting that creates a subtle starry effect while retaining the depth and character so desirable in an early gilt 5513. The original luminous material reacts under UV and fades rapidly, consistent with aged tritium.
The defining “Bart Simpson” coronet features the unusually short, blunt points and flatter base associated with this uncommon dial variant. Together with the Meters First depth rating and gilt printing, these details place the dial firmly within the final years of Rolex’s glossy gilt-dial production, just before the transition to matte dials.
The case remains particularly strong, retaining thick, even lugs and an honest appearance consistent with its age. The Fat Font bezel insert complements the dial nicely, showing an attractive aged tone with minimal wear.
Completing the watch is a Rolex riveted folded-link 7206 Oyster bracelet with 80 end links. The bracelet retains 11 links and its dive extension, with minimal stretch. The 1-67 date code, indicating January 1967, provides a period-correct pairing with the watch’s late-1966 1.47 million serial.
Altogether, this is a particularly appealing example of the early 5513, bringing together a rare gilt Meters First dial, distinctive “Bart Simpson” coronet, naturally aged luminous material, strong case, period-correct bracelet, and attractive Fat Font insert. A compelling representation of the character and originality that make early vintage Submariners so desirable.
Few vintage Submariners capture the character of the early gilt era quite like this Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 “Bart Simpson.” Dating to 1966 with a 1.47 million serial, this early Meters First example combines a beautifully aged tropical gilt dial with the distinctive coronet that gives this rare variant its nickname.
The dial is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the watch. Its deep, glossy black lacquer surface features warm gilt printing and minute track, complemented by original tritium lume plots that have developed a rich custard-colored patina. Over the decades, the dial has developed attractive natural spotting that creates a subtle starry effect while retaining the depth and character so desirable in an early gilt 5513. The original luminous material reacts under UV and fades rapidly, consistent with aged tritium.
The defining “Bart Simpson” coronet features the unusually short, blunt points and flatter base associated with this uncommon dial variant. Together with the Meters First depth rating and gilt printing, these details place the dial firmly within the final years of Rolex’s glossy gilt-dial production, just before the transition to matte dials.
The case remains particularly strong, retaining thick, even lugs and an honest appearance consistent with its age. The Fat Font bezel insert complements the dial nicely, showing an attractive aged tone with minimal wear.
Completing the watch is a Rolex riveted folded-link 7206 Oyster bracelet with 80 end links. The bracelet retains 11 links and its dive extension, with minimal stretch. The 1-67 date code, indicating January 1967, provides a period-correct pairing with the watch’s late-1966 1.47 million serial.
Altogether, this is a particularly appealing example of the early 5513, bringing together a rare gilt Meters First dial, distinctive “Bart Simpson” coronet, naturally aged luminous material, strong case, period-correct bracelet, and attractive Fat Font insert. A compelling representation of the character and originality that make early vintage Submariners so desirable.
