Rolex Milsub 5513

[HerbieTheDog]

Hello

My old man was a RN clearance diver and was issued with the above Rolex in 1976. I didn't actually wonder about its true monetary value until last Sunday's Antiques Roadshow.

I don't have the exact model and it's not in great nick (Tritium pearl missing, frozen bezel and a chip on the glass). The bezel is the full 60 minute but the hands are not the sword but mercedes variety.

I had it valued a few years ago by a high street Rolex dealer which stated it had an insurance value of £2000-3000. The value was negligible as I'd never sell it so I never questioned it.

Providence wise I have nothing official from Rolex but I do have photos of my dad wearing the watch during the Falklands conflict. I also still have his RN dive log book which has dives logged from all over the world (including San Carlos during the Falklands, also Israel, Singapore, Hong Kong, Virginia, California and plenty in Plymouth Sound!).

What I'm looking for is advice on what to do next. I don't want to sell but I also don't want to lock it away. I've just ordered a G10 NATO strap in Admiralty Grey to restore as best I can to when my dad wore it (which he did as an everyday watch).

Should I get it valued and authenticated? One thing I have been advised about is not sending it to Rolex or let it near a Rolex service centre.

Any advice gratefully received.