The year is 1977. Disco is king, Star Wars is captivating audiences, and on the wrists of discerning adventurers, a legend is being forged: the Rolex Submariner with tritium lume. This article delves into the world of the 1977 Rolex Submariner, specifically focusing on the variations available that year and the allure of the now-highly sought-after tritium dials with their characteristic patina. We'll explore the key differences between models, focusing on the iconic reference 5513 and its sibling, the reference 1680, and what makes a vintage 1977 Submariner a compelling investment and a piece of horological history.
Rolex Submariner ref 5513 circa 1977: The No-Date Classic
The Rolex Submariner reference 5513, produced from 1962 to 1989, represents the quintessential no-date Submariner. A 1977 example, with its 5.1 million serial number range, sits squarely within the prime production years of this iconic model. Collectors prize these watches for their clean, uncluttered dials and robust build quality. The tritium lume, applied to the hour markers and hands, is a key feature, and its age has often resulted in a beautiful, even patina – a testament to the watch's age and history. The term "Pre-Comex" often accompanies these 1977 5513s, referring to their production before Rolex's official partnership with the French diving company, COMEX. This pre-Comex designation signifies a specific dial configuration and often a lack of specific markings associated with the later COMEX collaborations. The "Vivid Patina" mentioned in the auction description highlights a particularly desirable characteristic: a rich, even aging of the tritium lume, showcasing a warm, creamy, or sometimes even brownish hue, highly sought after by collectors. The condition of the patina, its evenness, and its color are crucial factors in determining the value of these vintage pieces. Finding a 1977 Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 with an original, well-preserved dial is a true treasure.
1977 Rolex MK1 1680 Submariner: The Date's Arrival
In contrast to the no-date 5513, the Rolex Submariner reference 1680 introduced the date complication to the Submariner line. A 1977 example, often referred to as a "MK1" (Mark 1) due to its specific dial features, offers a slightly different aesthetic. The date window at 3 o'clock adds a functional element, while maintaining the rugged, tool-watch character of the Submariner. The tritium lume on the 1680 MK1, like its 5513 counterpart, is a defining characteristic, and its aging contributes significantly to the watch's overall charm and value. The specific details of the dial, such as the font style of the numerals and the placement of the text, vary slightly from year to year and even within the same year of production, making each 1680 MK1 a unique piece of history. The variations in dial aesthetics within the MK1 designation contribute to the complexity and fascination of collecting these vintage Submariners.
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