
Amanico champions the Tudor Submariner Marine Nationale Ref. 94010, arguing for its rightful place alongside legendary Rolex military watches. He meticulously compares its features, history, and perceived prestige, challenging the notion that an in-house movement or brand name alone dictates a watch's value. This post is essential for vintage dive watch enthusiasts and those interested in the historical significance of military-issued timepieces.















The Rolex Submariner reference 5513 is a notable example within the Submariner line, distinguished by its two-line dial and lack of a date complication. Produced for an extended period, it represents a core offering for collectors seeking a straightforward and robust tool watch. Its design emphasizes legibility and functionality, aligning with the original purpose of the Submariner series. This reference is recognized for its consistent aesthetic throughout its production run, with subtle variations in dial text and bezel inserts.
The watch features a 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, offering durability and water resistance suitable for its intended use. Powering the reference 5513 is the automatic Caliber 1520 movement, known for its reliability. The crystal is acrylic, contributing to the vintage character of the watch. The unidirectional rotating bezel, typically with an aluminum insert, allows for elapsed time measurement.
For collectors, the reference 5513 is a significant model due to its long production history and the various dial iterations, such as gilt and matte dials, which present distinct collecting opportunities. Its appeal lies in its foundational design and its position as a non-date Submariner, making it a desirable piece for those who appreciate the model's original form. The watch is often paired with an Oyster bracelet, completing its functional aesthetic.
I don't see this vintage in any way inferior to a submariner. It's a tough toolwatch that really conforms to all a diver will want, and i find the hour hand design incredibly legible. Vintages are like art, appreciated out of context and composition. The context part is strong, with it's affinity to the military, and the composition, well, only lacking in terms of the ETA movement. Were this to house a Rolex movement then, wow, the value might be on par with the vintage subs. Tudor has to forge
for sure.....but.... as I already told you, my choice would have been the other (round) one..... However I do like the creamy indexes... and you are right... the snow flakes has a harder look and more unusual.... the round a softer/elegant look ..... however... you cannot go wrong with either watch.... I do share your appreciation of the vintage Tudor watches but I am skeptic on their current new line..... Thanks for posting such an informative post my friend.... Enjoy it Cheers
Tudor at its best: Rolex, with a twist ;-) Cheers Jeff
This 'blue' is to die for ... nice WS also ... . thanks Nicolas filip
I'm glad you got the Snow Flake, I much prefer that to the Mercedes hands. I actually prefer the MN Tudors to many of the Rolex issued watches. They are somehow more...appropriate (?) for the purpose. The fact that they are less recognised, and recognisable, also appeals. Apart from the bracelet, I've only ever seen these on either G10s (NATOs) which doesn't seem right for a MN Watch or on very non-military leather straps. Do you know what strap was used? Another great watch, Nico, congratulatio
Fantastic watch!!! Enjoy!!! Snowflake rules!!! ANd they have seen history... Big congrats!!! Now you need some of those .... LOOOL! ready to go... ;-) Some MN...
This thread is active on the Rolex forum with 51 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →