Vintage
Bill's exploration of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 offers a deep dive into the nuances of early vintage Rolex collecting. His detailed account of the reference's evolution, particularly focusing on the rare 4-line gilt chapter ring and Pointed Crown Guard (PCG) variants, remains highly relevant for collectors seeking to understand the intricate history and distinguishing features of this iconic model. Bill's insights highlight why these specific configurations are so coveted and what makes them stand out in the vast world of vintage Submariners.
In 1958 the Rolex Submariner reference 5512 was introduced but as with Rolex nothing is an absolute fact. This reference was produced from 1958 (I can substantiate that date 58 as I have seen a 2 line 5512 with a serial number 371,xxx) and continued through 1978 with several calibers over the years. I am sure there will be some controversy but the 1030 may also have been used in the early years. However I have not hard facts just shifting information. The mainstay calibers included 1520, 1530, 1560 and 1570. I have seen several from 1961 / 62 that carried the 1560 caliber. The 5512 did not as a rule carry the C.O.S.C. certification for its entire production, but it did have the chronometer certification in the last years of production.
The particularity of the early models 1959 - 1962 was the Pointed Crown Guard (PCG) and gilt Chapter ring dial. It has been said the PCG were prototypes for the later rounded crown guard which are the one we are most familiar with. As for the square crown guards I have only seen one in person so those are like pixie dust. The first range of 5512 came out with a 1530 movement and did not carry the chronometer rating (Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified) on the dial the so-called 2 line writing. They later carried the 1560 and 1570 caliber with the chronometer rating on the dial the so-called 4-line writing. Curiously, the caliber 1530 was used in both the 5513 and 5512 calibers for a time. The 5512 carried the C.O.S.C. certification while the 5513 using the same caliber did not have the chronometer certification. I have also read somewhere that the 5513 outsold the 5512 by at least four to one. Considering it simply offered C.O.S.C. certification over the 5513 for a premium, the buyers did not see the added value. If you add to that fact that the 5513 was produced till around 1990 you can understand the scarcity of the 5512 in comparison the 5513.
The 5512, in vintage Rolex Collecting, has been referred to as a watch for the "refined collector". Those words tend to stick with you and as you navigate the water of vintage Rolex you will discover how the values can double and triple and even more with small subtleties. Rolex watches at least submariners all seem to look alike while a 5512 looks like a 5513 in many ways learn to appreciate them for what each evolution brings. So be very careful as you navigate in search of your grail and rely on the kind help of your watch community brothers for advice. Always do your homework first and get a good solid lay of the land before you start to ask questions.
Last bit on anecdotal information. Steve McQueen wore a Rolex 5512 most of his life and has been photographed many time wearing it. However, the Rolex 1655 Freccione "Explorer II Orange Hand" is always referred to as the so-called Steve McQueen. He has never been photographed wearing one. There are many stories about how that name came to be in Italy where that term was coined through some promotional reference and a movie he was playing in. The "original" Steve McQueen 5512 (I guess this means he must have owned the watch in question) was auctioned for several hundred thousand dollars a few years ago.
As I do not profess to be an expert, I will stop here with this simple review. I will let the real experts chime in and give us the hard facts. In the meantime please enjoy the pictures of the 5512 PCG Gilt Chapter ring so-called 4-line writing from 1961. The text is gold gilt and lower two lines are silver gilt script with an exclamation point at six o'clock. Many theories on the exclamation point so I will throw one more out there. Some of you may have seen the 5508 and 6536 where the index at 6 is lighter than the rest. The theory there is that for diving you clearly have the 6 o'clock having different luminosity. I would extend the same theory to the exclamation dot. It simple helps to illuminate 6 o'clock for the divers.
I hope you enjoy the review and the extra pictures by our good friend Nicolas.
Bill
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual reference 1030 represents an early iteration of the self-winding Oyster Perpetual line, a foundational model for the brand. This reference is distinguished by its automatic movement, housed within the robust Oyster case, which established the core principles of water resistance and automatic winding that became hallmarks of Rolex watches. It was part of the broader Oyster Perpetual family that emphasized reliability and everyday wearability.
This reference typically features a stainless steel Oyster case, housing the Rolex Caliber 1030, an automatic movement. The case diameter is commonly found around 34mm, a standard size for men's watches of its era. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage aesthetic. The Caliber 1030 movement provides a power reserve suitable for daily use.
For collectors, the reference 1030 is significant as it showcases Rolex's commitment to developing durable and precise automatic timepieces. It appeals to those interested in the evolution of the Oyster Perpetual series and the early application of Rolex's self-winding technology. Variants exist with different dial configurations and hour markers, offering diversity within the reference.
perfect gloss and lumes. congrats!!!
The 5512 has many variants and this is one shines. Best Bill
In fact, this one of my personal favorite Submariner The looks is just so subtle, but there are much more to it.. This variant is much rarer than the one with 2 line we see more often... Although also considered rare... I was once close to decide to go for this piece until the 202/A was offered to me.. And of course I couldn't say no to it.. This is a superb purchase Bill.. I hope I'll be able to see yours one day.. Congrats And wear it in best health Best, Sam
You are correct that the 5512 2 line is equally rare and sought after. It boils down to preference and opportunity. The same goes for the 6538 2 line vs 4 line with the grail being the 4 line. Nicolas made some comments that are telling when you consider the range of more recognized icons. When you see the watch in person you will appreciate its position as grail in its class. Best Bill
And especially that yours seems to have a very clean dial and the case seems like in a really good shape.. Congrats again Bill.. Sam
The lugs are nice and fat. I had the chance to compare the same model side by side and the was a lot more meat on the lugs but without a sister watch to compare it against you can't appreciate it as much. It is those little things that add up when you are shot for best in class. Thanks Bill
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