Introduction
Introduced in 1959, the Rolex Submariner ref. 5512 was the first Submariner to feature crown guards, establishing the case design that would define the collection for decades to come. Produced until 1979, it was the chronometer-certified counterpart to the ref. 5513 and, as a result of its higher price and lower production numbers, has become the scarcer of the two references.
Offered here is an example from 1979, the final year of the ref. 5512's production, fitted with the Mk. 2 Maxi dial. Exclusive to the last year of production, this dial features oversized luminous hour plots and the distinctive layout with "Submariner" positioned above the depth rating, making it one of the most elusive dial configurations of the reference.
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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 Rolex cal. 1570
Reference
5512
Bracelet
Steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1979
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Exclusive to the final year of the ref. 5512's production in 1979, the sought-after Mk. 2 Maxi dial is distinguished by its oversized luminous hour plots and the unique placement of the "Submariner" text above the depth rating. The matte black dial remains crisp, with lightly aged luminous material that gives the watch outstanding vintage character.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The ref. 5512 established many of the design cues that continue to define the Submariner today, from its crown guards and symmetrical no-date layout to its robust Oyster case and aluminium bezel insert. Nearly half a century after its introduction, its purposeful design remains as timeless as ever.
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 remains well defined and shows surface scratches and small nicks. The case back has a few light nicks. The bezel is in excellent condition, and the insert is very clean, having developed a pleasing matte finish. The dial is excellent, with crisp printing and a few small spots to the luminous material in the hour plots. The hands have darker luminous material, and there is a crack to the lume in the seconds hand. The crystal shows a number of light scuffs. It is fitted with a solid-link Oyster bracelet showing surface scratches, with the coronet on the clasp having lost some definition. The bracelet has light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 10 links and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist.
Our Perspective
The final-year ref. 5512 represents the end of one of Rolex's most important Submariner references. Combining the chronometer-rated calibre 1570 with the rare Mk. 2 Maxi dial—exclusive to the last year of production—it stands as one of the most desirable no-date vintage Submariners and a fitting conclusion to the reference's remarkable twenty-year run.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
