The Rolex Submariner, particularly the reference 5513 from 1968, is a grail watch for many collectors. Its rugged design, legendary reliability, and rich history have cemented its place in horological lore. But beyond the iconic external aesthetics lies a fascinating world within: the inner workings of the case itself. This article delves into the intricacies of the Rolex inside case, exploring its markings, construction, significance, and the broader context of Rolex cases throughout history. We'll also address practical concerns like case replacement, opening tools, and the sheer variety of cases offered by Rolex over the decades.
The accompanying photograph of the inside of a 1968 5513 Submariner reveals a wealth of information. The markings etched into the caseback are not mere aesthetic flourishes; they are a crucial part of the watch's identity and history. These engravings often include the reference number (5513 in this case), the serial number (which helps to date the watch precisely), and sometimes hallmarks indicating the metal composition (typically stainless steel). The presence and placement of these markings are key considerations for authentication and valuation. Understanding the nuances of these markings requires a keen eye and a solid understanding of Rolex's production history. Counterfeit watches often fail to accurately replicate these details, providing a crucial point of verification for prospective buyers.
The practice of marking the inside of the caseback is not unique to Rolex, but it's a practice they consistently employed and perfected. This internal marking serves several purposes. Firstly, it provides an undeniable link between the case and the movement within. Secondly, it acts as a form of tamper-evident security, making it more difficult to replace the movement without detection. Finally, these markings provide crucial information for service and repair, allowing Rolex technicians to quickly identify the watch's model, age, and potentially any specific service history. The meticulous attention to detail in these markings underscores Rolex's dedication to quality control and authenticity.
Rolex Case Size Chart:
Rolex offers a wide range of case sizes, catering to diverse wrist sizes and aesthetic preferences. A comprehensive Rolex case size chart would include dimensions such as diameter (excluding crown), lug-to-lug distance, thickness, and lug width. These measurements are crucial for ensuring a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing fit. While a precise chart would require a vast table encompassing every model ever produced, a general understanding of size ranges is helpful. Smaller watches, often associated with ladies' models or vintage pieces, might fall within the 28-34mm diameter range. Modern sports models, like the Submariner or GMT-Master II, typically range from 36-44mm, while some larger models even exceed 44mm. The case size chart is constantly evolving with the release of new models and variations.
Rolex Cases List:
Creating a complete list of every Rolex case ever produced is an impossible task given the sheer volume and variations. However, categorizing them based on material, style, and era provides a more manageable approach. Some key categories include:
* Oyster Cases: This is Rolex's signature case design, renowned for its water resistance and durability. The Oyster case is characterized by its monobloc middle case, screw-down crown, and screw-down caseback, creating a hermetically sealed environment to protect the movement.
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