The Rolex 5517. The name itself evokes whispers among watch enthusiasts, a legend shrouded in mystery and steeped in military history. Unlike its more widely known brethren, the 5517 wasn't a watch offered to the public. It’s a ghost, a phantom, a MilSub only ever officially supplied to military forces, primarily the British Ministry of Defence, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after Rolex watches in existence. Its scarcity, its exclusive military pedigree, and its robust design have cemented its place as a holy grail for collectors. This article delves deep into the fascinating world of the Rolex 5517, exploring its specifications, history, market value, and the enduring allure that continues to captivate watch aficionados.
Rolex Full Spec 5517: A Deep Dive into the Details
The Rolex 5517, produced towards the end of the 1970s, represents the pinnacle of military-specification timekeeping. While precise production numbers remain elusive, fueling the legend, its specifications reveal a watch built for extreme conditions and unwavering reliability. Its robust Oyster case, famously waterproof to significant depths, housed a highly accurate and robust movement, typically the calibre 1570, known for its reliability and shock resistance. This movement, a workhorse of its era, provided the accuracy and dependability crucial in demanding underwater operations.
The dial is a key distinguishing feature. Often seen in matte black, the 5517’s dial is characterized by its simple, highly legible design. Large, luminous hour markers and hands ensure readability even in the darkest depths or low-light conditions. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is a practical addition for military use. The “MILSUB” moniker, while not always explicitly printed on the dial, is often associated with this reference due to its military provenance and its features mirroring those of other known military-issued Submariners.
The bezel, a crucial element for divers, features a unidirectional rotating bezel with minute graduations, allowing divers to accurately track their dive time. The bezel insert, typically black, is made of a durable, scratch-resistant material, ensuring its longevity under harsh conditions. The case back, typically engraved with the iconic Rolex crown, further adds to the watch's robust construction. The bracelet, typically a three-piece Oyster bracelet, provides a secure and comfortable fit, even when worn over a diving suit. The overall design philosophy is one of functionality and rugged durability, reflecting its intended purpose.
Rolex Submariner Military 5517: A British Connection
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