Before you buy a fake Rolex Submariner 5513, focus on the case, dial, and movement, not the seller's story. A quality replica should match the 40 mm case, 20 mm lugs, acrylic crystal, no-date dial, and bidirectional bezel. Ask for clear macro photos and a movement photo. If the seller cannot provide them, walk away. Also check the legal risk in your country, because counterfeit branded watches are restricted in many places.

What to Look For in a Replica 5513

The 5513 is a vintage no-date Submariner, so the replica must respect those vintage proportions and details. Modern upgrades often break the look.

  • Case: 40 mm diameter, 20 mm lug width, drilled lugs on early models, crown guards with correct shape.
  • Crystal: Acrylic (plexiglass) with a dome profile. Sapphire can work if it has a vintage top hat shape, but acrylic is more period correct.
  • Dial: No date window. Look for correct text placement, serif fonts, and lume plots that sit close to the chapter ring.
  • Bezel: Bidirectional friction bezel with aluminum insert. Markings should match the era you want, such as meters first or feet first.
  • Movement: A reliable automatic with no date. Common choices include a 1520-style clone or an ETA 2824 base with a no-date conversion.
  • Lume: Aged tritium color, not bright white or neon green. The glow should be weak or dead on a vintage-style build.

Parameter Bands That Matter

  • Case diameter: 39.5 mm to 40.5 mm.
  • Lug width: 20 mm.
  • Thickness: 12.5 mm to 14 mm. Thicker cases sit wrong on the wrist.
  • Water resistance: 50 m to 100 m if the case is properly sealed. Do not dive with a replica.
  • Bezel action: 60 clicks or smooth friction, depending on the reference era. No back play.
  • Weight: 120 g to 150 g on a steel bracelet. Too light means hollow parts.

Common Pitfalls

  • A date window or cyclops on a 5513 replica. The real 5513 has no date.
  • Modern maxi dial and bright lume on a vintage build.
  • Wrong crown guard shape or polished lugs on a brushed case.
  • Bezel insert with sans-serif fonts or a pip that does not align at 12.
  • Seller claims of 904L steel or Swiss movement without photos.
  • No pressure testing, which means the watch may leak in rain or hand washing.

FAQ

Is a fake 5513 waterproof?

Most replicas are not pressure tested. Treat them as splash resistant at best unless a watchmaker seals and tests the case.

What movement should a replica 5513 use?

A no-date automatic is correct. A 1520 clone is ideal for looks, but a proven ETA or Miyota base can be more reliable for daily wear.

How can I spot a low-quality fake?

Check the dial text, lume color, bezel font, crown guard shape, and case thickness. Poor alignment and shiny lume are common signs.

Is buying a fake Rolex legal?

Laws vary by country. In the US, importing and selling counterfeit goods is illegal, and buying one can carry risk. Check local rules before you order.