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Rolex 5517 Military Submariner

Ethangill

Do not accept unsolicited offers
4/7/10
14
0
0
Fellow experts I need some advice on a milsub rolex 5517 1973 to determine whether its real or a replica. The case number and model number engravings are correct showing a 1973 case number and 5517 clearly marked at the 6 and 12 positions and look good, as does the military issue number on the case back and arrow head with hat. But the inside of the caseback also shows IV73 as date match it has a an additonal casenback number which i do not understand as it doesnt match anything its a 5xxxxxx number - im assuming the inside of a rolex case has a number unrelated and is just a caseback number but just not certain. The movement is a genuine Rolex 1520 with caseback taken off but having said that how can i even tell if the case isnt an aftermarket one with a genuine rolex 1520 movement dropped inside?
Unless i take it to Rolex - I know the bezel looks aftermarket which makes me think its all wrong and frankensteiner lol please advise
 

Ethangill

Do not accept unsolicited offers
4/7/10
14
0
0
Looking around I discovered a rolex 1520 movement can be had for $500 the 5517 case glass crown tube $900 the hands and dial and bezel $100 NATO strap $10 ... So for $1500 maximum you could build this frankenwatch I saw which I won't be touching - nothing seems correct on the watch and no paperwork either. Will wait for the new submariner date due here in switz in august as I'm on the list for first one. Which brings me to an interesting question... I'll start new thread