Lot #3526
Rolex Submariner 5512 Meters First Guarantee and Timing Certificate
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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
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Punched Guarantee Certificate, Timing Certificate, Additional Bracelet
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Submariner
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
5512
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
Circa 1967
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, original guarantee papers, original chronometer certificate, additional stainless Oyster bracelet
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Indicating its depth rating in meters first, this example was produced before 1969, which is when Rolex changed the layout of their dials to read feet first, which they still do to this day. The dial and hand luminous have been skillfully relumed at some point to mimic natrually aged luminous.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Containing, and popularising, 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 very good overall condition. Case was previously detailed, and has thick lugs and a wide and sharp chamfered edge. The bezel insert has moderate wear along the inner edge and color fading and scratches as seen in the images. The dial and hand luminous have been skillfully relumed at some point to mimic naturally aged luminous. It is otherwise in excellent condition showing only minimal wear and aging. The watch is currently fitted on a 91350 solid oyster bracelet with 10 links fitting a 6 1/2" wrist. There are three removable links included with the watch. Additionally, a Swiss rivet band dated 1967 is included with the watch. It has 12 links total, and shows light stretch. The watch comes with a punched guarantee certificate as well as its original COSC timing certificate. Watch was purchased at an Antiquorum auction in 2021, and a receipt / invoice is included.
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
