VINTAGE ROLEX TIMEPIECES

Vintage Rolex watches have become part of the collecting person's favorite hobbies, Especially the Rolex Submariners 5512 and 5513. These Rolex timepieces are sold at higher prices than Rolex recent models. This is how we know that Rolex is timeless, and no matter how old the timepiece could be, still continuous worth it to invest. In  some of the cases being more expensive than the Rolex recent models.

 The Rolex Submariner 5512 and 5513 share two common characteristics: larger lume plots than earlier Sub dials and generally bolder graphics emphasizing the depth rating and particularly SUBMARINER.

SUBMARINER 5512 DIAL

When familiarizing yourself with the various dials of the Rolex Submariner 5512 , several attributes become apparent. The early 5512 models had glit dials, while in comparison, the last generation around 1968 carried the white printed dials. In the mid-60s instead of swiss on the dial, it changed to "Swiss t-25" marked. This was to signal the change from radium to tritium dials. In addition, only early watches are known to have the chapter ring.

Case and Crown Guards Of The Submariner 5512

Crown guards of Rolex Submariner 5512

Only a dozen of the 5512 square crown guards are known to exist. Some collectors believe that the pointed crown guards were only a prototype of the rounded crown guards which Rolex would introduce later in the mid-1960s. The Different variations of crown guards are: Square crown guards, pointed crown guards, and proud crown guards. The Rolex Submariner 5512 case is 39mm and its watchband is a matching stainless steel link bracelet.

The Generations Of The Rolex Submariner 5512

Rolex Submariner 5512 in a Nato Strap

 Rolex is distinguished for each of its innovations and tecghnogical advancements for all of the  Rolex models they have created throughout the years. The Rolex Submariner is one of those watches, especially the Submariner 5512, which has been through four different generational upgrades.

The first generation (1959)
Second generation ( Early 1960s)
Third generation ( Mid 1960s)
Forth generation (Late 1960s)

Rolex, SA discontinued production of the Submariner 5512 in the mid- of 1970s.

Features:

* Case: 316 steel, 40 mm
* Water resistance of 200 meters (660 Feet)
* Oyster bracelet Ref. 7206
* Movement: Automatic caliber 1520

5512 Rolex Submariner Watch

Rolex Submariner 5512 Leather Watch Strap

Owning a 5512 Rolex Submariner is like the epitome of carrying history on your wrist. Having undergone four generations of modifications  the 5512 Rolex Submariner watch has many unique features and characteristics that make this watch so exclusive among collectors. 

Introduced in 1958 and in production until 1978, the 5512 Rolex Submariner watch was a very sought after item although the high price today might indicate otherwise. Apart from being the icon for Rolex and sports and dive watch models, the 5512 Rolex Submariner watch is known for its rarity as there aren’t many original models out there that haven’t had crucial replacement parts added, Rolex watch band excluded. If a dial or hand were swapped for an original piece, the worth of the watch could and will likely plummet because the original calibre could have been compromised.   

5512 Rolex Submariner Rolex Watch Band

Originally manufactured with the 1530 calibre, or non butterfly movement, the first few 5512 Submariner’s didn’t have the Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified certificate, and where not even chronograph functioning watches at all. As the 5512 Submariner watch evolved, the later models were armed with chronometer certified 1560 or 1570 calibre movements bearing the “4 line seal” on the dial. Additionally, the markers on the dial went from being made out of radium to titanium and changed from gilt, or golden, to white. 

On the heels of the dial change, came the elimination of the chapter ring and change of the swiss seal mark to “Swiss T<25.”  The bezel went through a variety of make-overs as well, having revisions in the first fifteen marker and font of the numbers. 

5512 Rolex Submariner Rolex Watch Strap

Going down as the first Rolex for having crown guards added among other numerous variations, the 5512 Rolex Submariner watch became more reliable and durable for underwater and sport excursions. 

Nevertheless regardless of the heaps of alterations, the 5512 Submariner watch strap never changed. Although substituting the dial and hands may diminish the worth, customizing the watch strap on the 5512 Rolex Submariner is a harmless addition. Try something lighter, like a watch strap made of Rubber from Rubber B, specially designed for the Submariner as pictured below. 

Rolex Submariner 5512 on Rubber B's watch strap