Introduction
Debuting in 1953 and released to the public the following year, the Rolex Submariner has undoubtedly become one of the most iconic timepieces of all time thanks to its legendary status as Rolex's flagship dive watch. Used extensively by the British Royal Navy and professional diving operations like COMEX, the Submariner set the bar for all dive watches to follow. Featuring a genuinely timeless design that has remained relatively unchanged throughout its history, this Rolex has become the archetypal sports watch. With very few large-scale aesthetic upgrades made to it over the years except for timely advancements like introducing a date function to the collection in the late '60s, and its modern cerachrom bezels, the Submariner is seen as the prototypical dive watch thanks to its consistency. The Submariner has earned its status as a legendary watch, with it today remaining as one of the most sought-after timepieces around.
Often thought of as the quintessential Rolex Submariner, the ref. 5512 is one the longest continually running Submariner references, with almost 20 years of production under its belt. Released in 1959 and discontinued in 1978, the ref. 5512, was the chronometer-certified counterpart for the ref. 5513. Rolex being a far cry from the brand we know and love today, they ran the ref. 5512 and the ref. 5513 together to appeal to as many customers as possible. With its chronometer-certification, the ref. 5512, was more expensive at retail and as such, sold fewer units than the ref. 5513 meaning it is a relatively rare watch even considering its long production run. Like most new releases, when the ref. 5512 was released it included some design changes from the references it replaced. These changes ultimately turned the Submariner into the tool watch we know today. Among these changes were heavier hash markings on the bezel for improved tactility, bevelled lugs for better wear on the wrist and the addition of crown guards to protect the winding crown - all making the Submariner ref. 5512 an improved version of the references it replaced and continuing the Submariner’s journey as the diving industry’s golden standard of dive watch.
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Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Submariner
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
5512
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1978
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Produced only in 1978, the ref. 5512's last year of production, this example features a Mk. 1 Maxi dial with well-aged luminous material on its hands and large lume plots, giving the watch an appealing aesthetic.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Containing and popularizing the Submariner's quintessential design tenets, the ref. 5512 has become an iconic reference within the family with its aluminum bezel, symmetrical dial and robust construction.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows light surface scratches and marks, with evidence of a previous polish, while the case back displays light surface scratches. The bezel remains well defined, and the black insert shows fading around the outer edge, most notably in the lower half, with the lume pip exhibiting a very dark hue. The matte Maxi dial remains excellent with crisp text and slightly discolored luminous.that has some minor breaks on the surface, while the hands appear to have been relumed at some point. It is fitted with a later solid-link Oyster bracelet with flip-lock clasp showing light surface marks and light play between the links. Bracelet has 11 links, 1 of which is removable, and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist.
Our Perspective
An essential step in the Submariner's journey, the ref. 5512 established chronometer specification as the collection's standard and added crown guards to the case, a now crucial element of its form and function.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
