5513 Questions

[mruders]

Hi. I am new to this site and to vintage Rolex watches so I apologize in advance for silly questions. Anyway, here they go.

I purchased a 5513 from a gentleman who purchased from Torneau as a second hand time piece in 1998. On his Torneau waranty and receipt it says the vintage is a1969 but the Serial number is 1776243, which according to searches online puts the date as a 1967 area. I am told that the dates aren't all that accurate when compared to serial numbers. If that is the case, please let me know.

Next question. As there is slight browning discolor on the 12 O'Clock to 3 O'Clock lumes, I was considering having the dial replaced at a certified Rolex dealer. I was initially concerned that changing out the dial would hurt the value. The service manager at Torneau assured that I replaced the dial with a replacement dial from Rolex, there would be no issues that would affect its value as the replacement is certified Rolex. Any thoughts on this? I'm not sure if I agree or if they even have a matching replacement dial.

Last question is theat the watch back plate has an engarving from the sellers ex wife. I want to remove it off. It that possible in your opinion?

Thanks for helping me anser these questions.

[Thatguy]

The charts are not that accurate so if you have a receipt from 69 that is reasonable. Easily 2 year difference between stamping case and selling.
I would not change the dial, the darkening is patina and is sought after if you want to sell it later. You can always change out the dial but you can't get patina without waiting a long time.
Yes you can remove the engraving, do a search on this site.

[Thatguy]

Oh and welcome. Pics of watch?

[mruders]

My watch is at Torneau getting the Bezel Spring Replaced. It will be posted next time around. Thanks for your help

[77T]

Just adding that 40 years ago Rolex inventory moved more slowly than now. So it is not unusual to see a case number like 177xxxx being sold in 1969. There is no real certainty of actual mfr. date except at Rolex HQ.

Regarding preserving collector status somewhere down the road...I would not replace dial - also keep the bezel, the insert and the bracelet original - don't replace them.

[Tools]

What Tourneau has written on a used watch receipt 30 years after it was first sold is irrelevant..

However, if you are researching the number yourself, there is a year or so variance either way from most Internet charts.

[mruders]

Hi. Thanks for the advice on the dial. It may not glow anymore, but after 40+ years neither do I. The last question is in regard to the bracelet. I think that it is newer than the watch. The seller told me that when he purchased it, it came with a leather band and he switched it out. Is there a specific model number for the correct bracelet? Are there any pictures available? Does anyone have any idea what a good bracelet should cost or who sells them?

Thanks Again