Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive article about the highly coveted and revered 5517 Rolex! As a watch enthusiast, you may be wondering why this particular model has become such a grail watch for collectors and aficionados? What makes it so special and sought after? We’ve got you covered with our in-depth analysis and exploration of this legendary timepiece. So, sit back, relax and let us take you on a journey through time.
A Brief History of the 5517 Rolex
First released in 1972, the Rolex Submariner 5517 was initially developed for the British Royal Navy as a highly robust and reliable watch for their divers. The 5517 was an updated version of the 5513 model, featuring a bigger, more legible dial and a crown guard. The 5517 was only available for military personnel, making it an incredibly rare and exclusive watch to obtain. Despite being designed for extreme conditions, the 5517 served much more than its intended purpose and became popular among civilian collectors as well.
The 5517 Rolex has gained a strong reputation for being a highly collectible, valuable, and aesthetically pleasing watch. Its large-sized crown guard, vintage lume, and maxi dial with oversized hour markers contribute to its distinct appearance. Furthermore, the 5517 is known for its durability and longevity, making it a popular choice for watch enthusiasts and divers alike.
Features of the 5517 Rolex
The 5517 Rolex is packed with features that make it one of the most sought-after watches in the world. Here are some of its most prominent features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | The 5517 Rolex is made with stainless steel, providing it with strength and durability to withstand extreme conditions. |
| Water Resistant | The 5517 Rolex is water-resistant to a depth of 200 meters, making it ideal for use during scuba diving and other water activities. |
| Dial | The maxi dial of the 5517 Rolex is large, with oversized hour markers that are easy to read even in low light conditions. |
| Lume | The luminescent material used on the 5517 Rolex dials and hands has aged gracefully, giving the watch an attractive vintage look. |
| Bigger Crown Guard | The crown guard of the 5517 Rolex is larger than its predecessor, providing additional protection to the winding crown and ensuring the watch’s durability. |
Advantages of the 5517 Rolex
The 5517 Rolex comes with many advantages that make it a highly desirable watch for collectors and enthusiasts. Here are some of its advantages:
Iconic Design and Style
The 5517 Rolex’s iconic design and style have made it one of the most recognizable watches in the world. The combination of its oversized hour markers, luminescent hands, and large crown guard give the watch a unique and distinct appearance that many watch enthusiasts love.
Superior Quality and Durability
The 5517 Rolex is made with superior quality materials and is designed to withstand extreme conditions. Its stainless steel construction makes it highly resistant to scratches and damage, while its water-resistant capabilities make it ideal for diving and other water activities.
Exclusive and Rare
The 5517 Rolex was initially developed for the British Royal Navy, and its exclusivity has only increased over time. Its rarity has made it a highly sought-after watch among collectors, which has resulted in its value increasing significantly over time.
Disadvantages of the 5517 Rolex
While the 5517 Rolex is an exceptional watch, it does come with a few disadvantages. Here are some of its disadvantages:
High Cost
The 5517 Rolex is a highly exclusive and rare watch, making it one of the most expensive watches in the market. Its high cost makes it unaffordable for many watch enthusiasts who aspire to own it.
Limited Availability
The 5517 Rolex is a highly sought-after watch, and its limited availability makes it difficult to obtain. Its rarity has also resulted in many counterfeit versions of the watch being sold on the market, making it essential to purchase from reputable sources only.
Heavy Weight
The 5517 Rolex is a relatively heavy watch, which can make it uncomfortable to wear for extended periods, especially for people with smaller wrists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the difference between the 5513 and the 5517 Rolex?
The 5517 Rolex was an updated version of the 5513 model, with a bigger crown guard, a more legible dial, and a unique lume. The 5517 Rolex was specifically designed for military personnel, while the 5513 Rolex was available for civilian use.
Q2. Is the 5517 Rolex a good investment?
Yes, the 5517 Rolex is an excellent investment due to its exclusivity, rarity, and highly esteemed reputation among collectors. It is an exceptional watch with a unique history that enhances its value and desirability.
Q3. How much does a 5517 Rolex cost?
The cost of a 5517 Rolex varies based on its condition, rarity, and other factors. Generally, a 5517 Rolex can cost between $60,000 and $200,000 or more.
Q4. Is the 5517 Rolex water-resistant?
Yes, the 5517 Rolex is water-resistant to a depth of 200 meters, making it ideal for scuba diving and other water activities.
Q5. Does the 5517 Rolex have a date function?
No, the 5517 Rolex does not have a date function, which contributes to its distinctive and classic appearance.
Q6. What is the size of the 5517 Rolex?
The 5517 Rolex has a case size of approximately 40mm, making it a relatively large watch compared to other Rolex models.
Q7. Can I purchase a brand new 5517 Rolex?
No, the 5517 Rolex is a vintage model and is no longer in production. However, you can purchase a pre-owned 5517 Rolex from reputable dealers and watch collectors.
Q8. What is the origin of the name Submariner?
The Submariner name originated from the watch’s ability to withstand extreme water pressure and conditions during scuba diving and other underwater activities.
Q9. What is the power reserve of the 5517 Rolex?
The 5517 Rolex has a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
Q10. How often should I service my 5517 Rolex?
It is recommended to service your 5517 Rolex every five years to maintain its functionality and durability.
Q11. What movement does the 5517 Rolex use?
The 5517 Rolex uses the automatic caliber 1520 movement.
Q12. Why is the 5517 Rolex so valuable?
The 5517 Rolex is valuable due to its exclusivity, rarity, unique history, and exceptional design and construction. The watch’s value has also increased over time due to its increasing demand and limited availability.
Q13. Can I wear my 5517 Rolex while swimming?
Yes, the 5517 Rolex is water-resistant to a depth of 200 meters, making it ideal for swimming and other water activities. However, it is recommended to avoid exposing it to chemicals or high temperatures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 5517 Rolex is a legendary watch with a unique and fascinating history that has gained it an iconic status among watch enthusiasts and collectors. Its distinctive design, superior quality, and durability make it a highly sought-after watch in the market. Although it comes with a few disadvantages like its high cost and limited availability, owning a 5517 Rolex is a dream come true for many watch enthusiasts. So, if you’re looking to add this exceptional timepiece to your collection, be sure to do your research, and purchase only from reputable sources.
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Closing Disclaimer
The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. The value of watches can fluctuate, and you should always conduct your own research before making any investment decisions.