Rolex

1965 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 5512) Two Color Gilt Dial

The Rolex Submariner Reference 5512 is the embodiment of the classic dive watch. The 5512 is simple yet sophisticated and rugged whilst becoming increasingly more uncommon and collectible. It is said that for every five 5513s made in the 1970s one 5512 was made. Ref 5512 was first introduced in the 1958 and ceased production in late 1978. The 5513 was introduced a few years later in 1962 and was in production till 1990.

The Ref. 5512 like the Ref 5513 is a purpose-built dive watch that lacks the date function like other Rolex Submariner models. (eg. Ref. 1680.)  The main difference between the Rolex Submariner Ref 5513 and Rolex reference 5512 is the caliber of movement within the case. The Rolex Submariner 5512 and Submariner 5513 started both out with the Rolex caliber 1530 movement but the Rolex Submariner Ref 5512 later on was equipped with a chronometer certified caliber 1560 and 1570 movement, bearing the chronometer writing on the dial above the 6 o'clock position AKA the 4 lines of text as opposed to the non-chronometer certified 2 liner dial's of ref 5513's which is the easy and main way to tell the difference between the 5512 and 5513 references of no date submariners

1965 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 5512) Two Color Gilt Dial

The specific dial 2 color gilt dial variation with "200m = 600ft" and "Submariner" in gold gilt text and "Superlative Chronometer, Officially Certified" in silver printed gilt text was famously worn by the late actor and racing driver Steve Mcqueen. Mcqueen was often photographed wearing this reference with this dial variation and always wore the watch on this right wrist. 

Stock # RLXSM655512
Brand Rolex
Style Submariner
Model 5512
Serial 11XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Black 2 Color Gilt
Millimeters 40
Strap Rolex 7206 Rivet Bracelet W/ 80 End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent case has been previously lightly polished showing light wear with original chamfers slightly present. The "fat-font" bezel insert remains dark black in colorations showing very little wear, the pearl was replaced at some point. The crown was replaced at an early service for a Rolex trip-lock crown. The Rolex T19 crystal is original to the watch and exhibits normal crazing for its age. The era correct Rolex 7206 riveted bracelet with 80 end pieces is in great condition showing very little wear and light stretch for its age.

DIAL & HANDS

The wonderful 2 color gilt dial is in excellent vintage condition, the glossy dial is in the beginning stages of taking on a matte finish, showing consistent but light spidering throughout the dial. The creamy yellow original tritium lume plots remain round and even, showing very slight degradation in the 11 and 7 o'clock marker that is only visible under loupe. The original gilt tritium hands are in excellent condition and are starting to take on a darker patina in the lume but otherwise match the dial nicely, under U.V. light inspection the hands exhibit no degradation or lume loss.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch was recently serviced and is running at COSC spec backed by a 1-year warranty for accurate timekeeping.