Introduction
Welcome to our article about the Rolex 5517 Milsub, one of the most legendary and sought-after military watches in the world. The Rolex 5517 Milsub is a diving watch that was first issued in the 1970s to the British Royal Navy and has since become a coveted collector’s item.
This article will delve into the history of the Rolex 5517 Milsub, its features and specifications, advantages and disadvantages, and frequently asked questions about the watch. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or simply intrigued by this iconic timepiece, this article will provide you with everything you need to know.
What is the Rolex 5517 Milsub?
The Rolex 5517 Milsub is a dive watch designed for military use, specifically issued to the British Royal Navy in the 1970s. It is essentially a modified version of the Rolex Submariner, with features and upgrades to meet military standards.
Compared to the standard Rolex Submariner, the Rolex 5517 Milsub features a larger 60-minute bezel, thicker plexiglass crystal, fixed spring bars to prevent strap loss, and a unique sword-shaped minute hand.
What sets the Rolex 5517 Milsub apart from other dive watches is its military pedigree. Only a few hundred were ever produced, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
History of the Rolex 5517 Milsub
The Rolex 5517 Milsub was first issued to the British Royal Navy in the 1970s as part of a program to replace the aging Omega Seamaster 300 watches. The Milsub was modified by the Ministry of Defense to meet military specifications, including resistance to magnetic fields, shock, and water pressure.
While the exact number of Rolex 5517 Milsubs produced remains unclear, it is believed that only a few hundred were ever issued to the British Royal Navy. After the program ended, many of the watches were sold as surplus, leading to their popularity among collectors and enthusiasts.
Features and Specifications of the Rolex 5517 Milsub
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Case Diameter | 40mm |
| Bezel Material | Aluminum |
| Bezel Function | Unidirectional |
| Crystal | Plexiglass |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Water Resistance | 200m |
| Bracelet/Strap | NATO nylon strap |
In addition to its military pedigree, the Rolex 5517 Milsub features several modifications and upgrades from the standard Rolex Submariner. These include:
- Fixed spring bars to prevent strap loss
- 60-minute bezel for better timing of dives
- Unique sword-shaped minute hand for better visibility underwater
- Thicker plexiglass crystal for increased durability
- Lack of date window for better readability in low-light situations
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Rolex 5517 Milsub
Like any watch, the Rolex 5517 Milsub has its advantages and disadvantages. Some of the advantages of the watch include:
- Iconic military history and pedigree
- Rarity and exclusivity, with only a few hundred ever produced
- Durability and resistance to magnetic fields, shock, and water pressure
- Upgrades and modifications from the standard Rolex Submariner
However, the Rolex 5517 Milsub also has its disadvantages, including:
- High cost, with prices ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars
- No longer in production, making it difficult to find a genuine piece
- Relatively small market, which can make selling or buying the watch difficult
- Missing some modern features, such as a date window or sapphire crystal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Rolex 5517 Milsub
1. Is the Rolex 5517 Milsub a good investment?
Yes, the Rolex 5517 Milsub is considered a good investment due to its rarity, historical significance, and exclusive military pedigree. However, the high cost of the watch can make it difficult to obtain.
2. How much does a Rolex 5517 Milsub cost?
The price of a Rolex 5517 Milsub can vary widely depending on factors such as condition, provenance, and rarity. Prices can range from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
3. How can you tell if a Rolex 5517 Milsub is genuine?
Authenticating a Rolex 5517 Milsub can be difficult due to the number of fakes on the market. However, there are several ways to determine authenticity, including examining the engraving on the back of the watch, checking the serial number, and consulting with a reputable expert.
4. What makes the Rolex 5517 Milsub different from the standard Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex 5517 Milsub features several modifications and upgrades from the standard Rolex Submariner, including a larger 60-minute bezel, thicker plexiglass crystal, fixed spring bars to prevent strap loss, and a unique sword-shaped minute hand.
5. How many Rolex 5517 Milsubs were produced?
The exact number of Rolex 5517 Milsubs produced is unknown, but it is believed that only a few hundred were ever issued to the British Royal Navy as part of a program to replace the aging Omega Seamaster 300 watches.
6. What is the history of the Rolex 5517 Milsub?
The Rolex 5517 Milsub was first issued to the British Royal Navy in the 1970s as part of a program to replace the aging Omega Seamaster 300 watches. It was modified by the Ministry of Defense to meet military specifications, including resistance to magnetic fields, shock, and water pressure.
7. How durable is the Rolex 5517 Milsub?
The Rolex 5517 Milsub is designed to be highly durable and resistant to magnetic fields, shock, and water pressure. It is also built with fixed spring bars to prevent strap loss and a thicker plexiglass crystal for increased durability.
8. Does the Rolex 5517 Milsub have a date window?
No, the Rolex 5517 Milsub does not have a date window, which improves readability in low-light situations.
9. What kind of strap does the Rolex 5517 Milsub come with?
The Rolex 5517 Milsub originally came with a NATO nylon strap, which was preferred by the British Royal Navy due to its durability and easy maintenance.
10. What is the water resistance of the Rolex 5517 Milsub?
The Rolex 5517 Milsub is water-resistant to a depth of 200m, making it suitable for diving and other water activities.
11. Is the Rolex 5517 Milsub suitable for everyday wear?
While the Rolex 5517 Milsub is designed for military use and diving, it can also be worn as an everyday watch. However, the lack of a date window may be inconvenient for some wearers.
12. Where can I buy a Rolex 5517 Milsub?
Due to the rarity and exclusivity of the Rolex 5517 Milsub, it can be difficult to find one for sale. However, reputable dealers and auction houses may occasionally offer them for sale.
13. How do I care for my Rolex 5517 Milsub?
To ensure the longevity and durability of your Rolex 5517 Milsub, it is recommended to have it serviced regularly by a qualified watchmaker. It is also important to avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures, magnetic fields, and shock.
Conclusion
The Rolex 5517 Milsub is one of the most iconic and sought-after military watches in the world, with a fascinating history and exclusive pedigree. While it may not be suitable for all budgets or needs, for collectors and enthusiasts, the Rolex 5517 Milsub is a truly unique and special timepiece.
If you’re interested in adding a Rolex 5517 Milsub to your collection, be sure to do your due diligence and consult with reputable experts and dealers to ensure authenticity and quality.
Closing/Disclaimer
While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and validity of the information provided in this article, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal or professional advice. We assume no liability for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the content or information provided. Any reliance on the information contained in this article is solely at the reader’s own risk.