The allure of a Rolex, particularly a military-issued model, transcends mere timekeeping. It represents a legacy of precision, durability, and often, a connection to history and a specific operational context. For many collectors, the pinnacle of this allure resides in the coveted "SAS Rolex," referencing the Special Air Service (SAS) of the British Army and the watches they famously utilized. This article delves into the world of military-issued Rolex Submariners, specifically those associated with the SAS, exploring their history, variations, pricing, and the often-fraught process of acquiring one legitimately.
The term "SAS Rolex" isn't a formally designated model name. Instead, it's a colloquial term encompassing various Rolex Submariners – primarily the 5513 and 5517 – that saw service with the SAS and other British military units. The mystique surrounding these watches stems from their rugged functionality, proven reliability in extreme conditions, and the secretive nature of the units that deployed them. Understanding the history of these watches is crucial to appreciating their value and recognizing authentic examples amidst a market rife with counterfeits.
The Rolex Submariner: A Foundation of Military Utility
Before exploring the specific models associated with the SAS, it's essential to understand the Rolex Submariner's inherent suitability for military use. Designed for professional divers, the Submariner boasts a robust Oyster case, offering exceptional water resistance. Its high-luminescence hands and markers ensure readability in low-light conditions, a critical feature for underwater operations and nighttime missions. The unidirectional bezel allows divers to accurately monitor their dive time, preventing accidental over-decompression. These features, combined with Rolex's renowned reliability and precision, made the Submariner an ideal choice for military personnel operating in challenging environments.
The Rolex Submariner 5513: A Workhorse of the Military
The Rolex Submariner 5513 holds a particularly significant place in military history, and its association with the SAS is well-documented. Production of the 5513 spanned several decades, from the late 1960s to the late 1980s, allowing for considerable variation in its features. While not all 5513s were specifically issued to the military, many ended up in their hands through official procurement or private purchase.
Key characteristics often associated with military-issued 5513s include:
* Markings: Some, though not all, military-issued 5513s might bear markings indicating their military provenance. These markings are often subtle and can be difficult to identify, requiring expert examination. The absence of markings, however, doesn't automatically disqualify a watch from military use. Many soldiers purchased their own watches.
* Dial variations: Dial variations are numerous, with different fonts, lume plots, and hand styles appearing throughout the 5513's production run. Certain dial configurations are more strongly associated with military use than others, but definitive identification requires careful study and comparison with known examples.
* Bracelets: The bracelets on military-issued 5513s were typically robust and functional, often showing signs of wear consistent with prolonged use in demanding conditions.
The price of a Rolex Submariner 5513, particularly one with a credible military history, can vary significantly. Condition, rarity of specific dial and case variations, and verifiable provenance all heavily influence the value. Expect to pay a substantial premium for an authentic military-issued example compared to a civilian version.
current url：https://ffkbgi.quocankhang.com/news/buy-rolex-sas-66287