Vintage Submariner Questions

[Nick9]

Hi, all. A couple of quick questions on this Sub, but first the story. A friend and fellow collector bought this watch in the late 1980s, from the widow of the original purchaser. The serial number dates it to circa 1969. The bracelet clasp is marked I - 1968, so first quarter of 1968.

He wears it occasionally. It is the best unrestored rivet bracelet that I have seen; almost no stretch at all. You can judge for yourself the condition of the watch and I believe that is an original crystal. Sorry the picture isn't better.

This friend does not ever sell watches. Never has; never will.

But we are curious about two things.

First, is the bezel insert original?

And second, can anyone suggest what the value of this watch might be, in today's market?

Thanks for the help. We appreciate it.

[Dan S]

Looks like a long 5 insert to me. Very nice piece. If you spend some time on it, you can probably find good comps on HQ Milton and various sales forums. The value will also depend on what accessories he received from the widow, and also the condition of the case, which is a bit hard to evaluate from that photo.

[1665fan]

Yes I would say original bezel insert and worth a pretty penny alone

[SOG DIVER]

It is an excellent example, and appears original.
An almost one owner reference 5512/5513 Submariner value may be roughly
determined by due diligence. As previously cited-comparisons will give you answers.

[Nick9]

Thanks so much for the quick replies. So for hunting down value, would I look for "late 1960s meters first Submariner with an original long 5 bezel insert"?

The case has a few dings here and there, as I guess we'd expect. As you can see, the lugs seem reasonably fat, but not much by way of chamfers. Sorry, I don't know that period well enough to know if it should have them.

Oops, I guess that's a third question. Thanks!

[roh123]

Looks nice and original. Case looks a bit soft perhaps. Value would probably be around 15-20 something.

[dhknola]

I would say Roh has the value aspect answered. These have been really 'hot' in the vintage world in the last year or so. Great watch!

[Nick9]

Just like to thank everyone for the generous comments, and the suggestion to look at HQ Milton (did that).

Questions asked and answered; thanks again!