roger moore rolex | Roger Moore bond watch

Roger Moore's portrayal of James Bond was a significant departure from the gritty, more grounded realism of his predecessor, Sean Connery. Moore brought a suave, sophisticated charm, a playful wit, and a dash of self-deprecating humor to the role. This shift in Bond's character was mirrored in the gadgets he used and, perhaps most notably, in his choice of timepiece. While Sean Connery firmly established the Rolex Submariner as a Bond staple, Roger Moore's tenure saw the introduction of a tricked-out Rolex Submariner 5513, a watch that became synonymous with his era and a hallmark of the increasingly fantastical gadgets Q Branch provided.

This article delves into the specifics of the Roger Moore Rolex, examining the historical context of Bond's watch choices, the significance of the Submariner 5513, and the unique modifications that made it a truly iconic piece of cinematic history. We'll explore why this particular Rolex resonated with audiences and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Bond fans and watch enthusiasts alike.roger moore rolex

From Connery's Tool Watch to Moore's Gadget-Laden Companion

The legacy of James Bond watches began with Sean Connery and his Rolex Submariner 6538, often referred to as the "Big Crown" Submariner. This early Bond watch was more than just a prop; it felt like a genuine tool a secret agent might rely on. It was a rugged, reliable, and understated piece that spoke to the character's practical nature and his ability to blend into any environment. The Submariner 6538's appearance in films like *Dr. No*, *From Russia with Love*, *Goldfinger*, and *Thunderball* cemented its place as the quintessential Bond watch and established Rolex as a brand intrinsically linked to the 007 franchise.

However, with Roger Moore taking over the role in 1973's *Live and Let Die*, the world of James Bond underwent a transformation. The tone became lighter, the plots more outlandish, and the gadgets more inventive. This shift demanded a watch that could keep pace with the evolving character and the increasingly fantastical scenarios he found himself in. Enter the Rolex Submariner 5513, modified to include features that would make even Q Branch proud.

The Rolex Submariner 5513: A Classic Foundation

Before dissecting the modifications, it's important to understand the Rolex Submariner 5513 itself. Introduced in 1962, the 5513 was a non-chronometer-certified version of the Submariner, meaning it didn't undergo the rigorous testing and certification process required to be classified as a "chronometer." This made it slightly more affordable than its chronometer-certified counterpart, the 5512.

The 5513 was a workhorse of a watch, known for its durability, reliability, and timeless design. It featured a 40mm stainless steel case, a black dial with luminous hour markers, and a rotating bezel for timing dives. The movement was typically the Rolex caliber 1520, a robust and dependable automatic movement. The 5513 was a quintessential tool watch, designed for professional divers and anyone who needed a reliable and legible timepiece in challenging conditions.

Its simplicity and functionality made it a popular choice for military personnel, adventurers, and anyone who appreciated a well-built and understated watch. This inherent robustness and classic design made it the perfect canvas for Q Branch to work their magic.

Live and Let Die: The Buzzsaw and Magnetic Field

The Roger Moore Rolex Submariner 5513 made its debut in *Live and Let Die* (1973), and it immediately set a new precedent for Bond watches. This wasn't just a time-telling device; it was a fully-fledged gadget with two incredibly memorable features:

* The Buzzsaw Bezel: Perhaps the most iconic modification, the bezel of the 5513 was sharpened and transformed into a miniature buzzsaw. Bond used this feature to cut through ropes and, most famously, to escape from a room where he was being held captive. The sheer audacity of this modification, turning a precision instrument into a cutting tool, perfectly encapsulated the over-the-top nature of the Roger Moore era.

* The Magnetic Field: The 5513 was also equipped with a powerful magnetic field generator. Bond utilized this feature to deflect bullets, unzipping Miss Caruso's dress to distract her and pull a spoon towards him, allowing him to escape. While the science behind this magnetic field might be questionable, the visual effect on screen was undeniably captivating and solidified the watch's place in Bond lore.

These modifications, while undoubtedly far-fetched, were a reflection of the changing times and the evolving nature of the Bond franchise. They represented a move towards a more fantastical and entertaining style of filmmaking, and the Rolex Submariner 5513 became a symbol of this new era.