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. 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 1989.
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 easiest and most universally known way to tell the difference between the 5512 and 5513 references of no date matte dial submariners. The 5512 is much rarer than the 5513, as it was the more expensive to produce and not as popular for its retail price. It said that for every five 5513s made in the 1970s one 5512 was made.
Tiffany & Co. co-branded and sold timepieces from a variety of manufacturers, one of which was Rolex. In the late 1950s, Tiffany & Co. began printing their name on the dials of the watches they sold via their retail locations. Another little-known fact is that theTiffany-branded dials had the Tiffany & Co. name added by hand at their New York City and not directly by Rolex. Additionally, Tiffany added a serialized code that is commonly etched into the underside of the lug on their watches notating the addition of the branding to the dial.
| Stock # | RLXSM735512T | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Submariner | |
| Model | 5512 | |
| Serial | 34XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Tiffany & Co." | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Strap | Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 580 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent case has been previously lightly polished, showing light wear. The service insert retains its luminova pearl, showing no fading or wear from use. The case back is signed 5513 which is common as these were interchangeable when assembled at the factory. The Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 580 end pieces remains in excellent unpolished condition showing minimal stretch from use.
DIAL & HANDS
The original matte black "Tiffany and Co." 5512 submariner dial is in remarkable and flawless condition. The "Tiffany and Co." text adds an extra dimension to the dial and really stands out on this specific dial format, making it a 5 line dial as opposed to the traditional 4 lines of text found on 5512's. The tritium lume plots and hands have aged to a wonderful creamy patina. When viewed under U.V. light the lume plots show no degradation, the hands also remain fully intact although the lume in the hour hand does show some slight cracking which is common for submariners from this era.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is running at COSC spec backed by a 1-year warranty for accurate timekeeping.
