Most Expensive: 1960′s Rolex Submariner Sells For Record Price
On Monday the 19th of January a vintage circa 1960s Rolex 5513 Submariner with movement calibre 1530 became one of the most valuable items ever sold in a Wrist & Pocket Watch auction at Birmingham auctioneers, Fellows & Sons.
The original sale estimate of £900 – £1,400 ($1,950 – $3,200) dramatically undervalued the classic, highly collectible watch’s true appeal at auction attested to by the level of attention the piece received, attracting bidders from around the world including New York, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong and United Arab Emirates. However, even seasoned collectors may be a little surprised to hear that the watch passed in at a staggering 2200% above expectations for the tidy sum of £35,000 ($76,000)!
Details of the new owner were not disclosed, but it would be safe to assume that they are very happy with their latest acquisition. Launched in 1962 and produced through to June 1990 the Rolex Submariner 5513 model is one of the longest continually produced references in Rolex history. The 1500 series of movements are thought to be one of the best ever created by the luxury brand. “Not to mention saving 007 and Solitaire from certain death in the Bond film ‘Live and Let Die’, it is no wonder that the 5513 model is considered one of the most collectable Submariners” commented Stephen Whittaker, the Managing Partner at Fellows & Sons. “Our telephone lines were fully booked and we had several internet bidders who were very keen to get their hands on this watch – creating a really exciting atmosphere in the auction room.”
Fellow & Sons hold regular auctions throughout the year so keep your eyes out for future announcements. If you would like further information please contact Mary Long on 0121 212 5500 or email: mary@fellows.co.uk
Category: Watch News
Loving the new site guys, amazing improvement feels light, luxurious and easy to take in, looking forward to keeping track on RSS
Thanks AJM, appreciate the support! We’re not quite there yet but things are really starting to look good!
Glad you like it Tom. I hope it really takes off for you.
Ramsay
Far out, that’s a pretty impressive price. I know these watches are quite rare but still that is huge! This is the kind of thing you dream of finding in your grandparents attic!