Rolex Submariner Reference 5513 'Bart Simpson'
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1960s
Maker / issuer
RolexThis Rolex Submariner, reference 5513, originates from the early years of the model's production run, which spanned from 1962 to 1989. This specific dial variation is colloquially referred to as the 'Bart Simpson' dial due to the shape of the Rolex coronet logo, which is noted for its visual resemblance to the character from the animated television series.
The source suggests this configuration may have resulted from a bleeding defect during the manufacturing process. The timepiece is equipped with a luminous handset and markers, and the stainless steel case retains its factory-finished bevels.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Diver's watch
- Model
- Submariner
- Dial Type
- Gilt
- Reference
- 5513
- Dial Nickname
- Bart Simpson
- Case Condition
- Factory bevels
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Production Era
- Early 5513 run
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
Design
- Visible features
- • Dial coronet logo features an altered shape • Gilt printing visible on the dial • Luminous material present on handset and markers • Case lugs retain factory beveling
- Production Context
- The reference 5513 had a production lifecycle spanning approximately 30 years, starting in 1962 and concluding in 1989. Throughout this duration, the model underwent various evolutionary changes, moving from early gilt dials to later high-gloss versions featuring white gold surrounds. This particular watch is placed within the early segment of the 5513 timeline. The transition away from gilt dials was motivated by production capacity constraints, as the manufacturer could not produce them at the same volume as the subsequent matte dial variants.
- Dial and Coronet Design
- The watch is fitted with a gilt dial, a method of printing where the typography is recessed into the surface, allowing the brass color of the dial plate to appear as the text. This technique was used by the manufacturer during the early portion of the 5513 reference production run before transitioning to matte dials in the latter half of the 1960s. The dial is noted for a distinct coronet logo at the 12 o'clock position. This specific execution, termed the 'Bart Simpson' dial, displays a shape that deviates from the standard logo. The auction description reports that this modification might have been the result of a bleeding defect occurring during the dial production process. The dial also exhibits signs of matting, which the source identifies as an expected outcome of the aging process for gilt-style components.
- Case and External Features
- The stainless steel case retains the beveling originally applied during manufacturing. The bezel insert remains present, and the dial layout includes standard markers and a handset that possess matching luminous material. The auction description reports that the dial surface, aside from the intentional design features, shows minor matting, which is attributed to age. Reflections or spots observed in some images are identified by the vendor as effects of strobe lighting rather than physical imperfections on the watch dial or crystal.
Identification
- Reference
- 5513
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The 'Bart Simpson' coronet shape is described as a possible production defect
- Research required: Dial matting is present, a condition described by the source as common for this age