The Rolex Submariner, a name synonymous with diving prowess and enduring style, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Within this iconic lineage lies a particularly enigmatic and highly sought-after variant: the Rolex MilSub, specifically the reference 5517. This article will delve into the fascinating history of the Rolex MilSub, exploring its unique features, its relationship with the British Ministry of Defence (MoD), and its enduring appeal in the modern collector's market, touching upon related models such as the 2022 new Rolex 41mm Submariner, the 2020 Rolex Submariner date 41mm, and the anticipated 2024 Submariner 41mm no date. We will also address the market for Rolex military Submariners for sale, exploring their prices and the allure of specific models like the Rolex Submariner Tiffany 5513 and Rolex Submariner 5513 for sale.
The story of the MilSub begins not with a grand announcement, but with a quiet, almost clandestine, relationship between Rolex and the British Ministry of Defence. Unlike many official military contracts, the precise details surrounding the procurement of the 5517 remain shrouded in some mystery, adding to its allure. What is known is that the British military, needing a robust and reliable timepiece for its divers, turned to Rolex. The resulting watch, the reference 5517, is a testament to the collaboration between the watchmaker and the armed forces.
The 5517 is readily distinguishable from standard Submariner models of the era. While based on the Submariner platform, several key features set it apart. The most striking difference is the dial. MilSub dials are characterized by their distinct matte finish, often described as "eggshell" or "cream," a far cry from the glossy dials found on civilian Submariners. The text is also unique, often featuring a smaller, simpler font for the "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner" inscription. The hands, too, are distinctive, typically broad arrow hands, though variations exist.
Another crucial difference lies in the bezel. MilSub bezels typically feature a slightly less pronounced, less sharply defined edge compared to their civilian counterparts. This subtle difference is often cited as a result of the demands of military use, potentially offering increased robustness against accidental damage. The crown guards are also often slightly more pronounced, again suggesting a design geared towards resilience in harsh conditions.
The movement inside the 5517 is typically a caliber 1570, a robust and reliable workhorse that proved its worth in the challenging underwater environments faced by British divers. This is a significant departure from the COSC-certified caliber 1570 found in the civilian 5512. The lack of COSC certification on the 5517 adds to its mystique and highlights its functional purpose over strict adherence to chronometric standards.
The caseback of the 5517 often bears the broad arrow marking, a symbol of British military acceptance. This marking, though not always present, serves as a key identifier for authentic MilSubs. The presence or absence of the broad arrow, coupled with the other unique features mentioned above, are crucial aspects for collectors seeking to authenticate a potential purchase.
The exact number of 5517s produced remains unknown, contributing to the watch's legendary status. Its rarity and the secretive nature of its origin have solidified its place as one of the most sought-after Rolex Submariners amongst collectors. This scarcity, combined with its undeniable historical significance, has driven prices to astronomical levels in recent years.
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