The Rolex Submariner, a legend in the world of dive watches, boasts a rich and complex history. One crucial element of that history, often overlooked amidst the allure of specific reference numbers and dial variations, is the evolution of its depth rating display. While the Submariner's water resistance was always a key selling point, the explicit declaration of that resistance on the dial itself didn't occur until the mid-1950s. This article will explore the significance of the "Meters First" Submariners, particularly focusing on examples from 1968, and delve into the broader context of Rolex Submariner reference 5513 production, touching upon related models like the Rolex Submariner 5512 to provide a comprehensive understanding of this iconic timepiece.
Before we dive into the specifics of the 1968 5513 "Meters First," let's establish the timeline of depth rating presentation on Rolex Submariner dials. While earlier Submariners possessed impressive water resistance, this was typically communicated through advertising and implicit understanding rather than explicit labelling on the dial itself. The transition to printed depth ratings began around late 1955, initially appearing on some, but not all, Submariner models. By 1960, it had become a more standardized practice, with the depth rating prominently featured on the dial. The early dials primarily used "feet" as the unit of measurement, reflecting the prevailing standard in the English-speaking world. However, a significant shift occurred, leading to the "Meters First" dials. These dials, beginning to appear in the late 1960s, displayed the depth rating in meters, followed by the equivalent in feet, often in a smaller font. This change reflects Rolex's increasing awareness of and responsiveness to the growing international market, where the metric system was becoming increasingly prevalent.
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