170 Rolex Preserved in as New Old Stock Conditions and Incredibly Attractive, Submariner, Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, Black Gilt Dial, With Box and Warranty, Reference 5512

Estimate: €50,000 –⁠ 100,000

Model: Submariner
Reference: 5512
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1962
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1530
Case N°: 819122
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box, Warranty, Listing Price, Rotor and Booklets

Watch enthusiasts understand the rarity and significance of finding a timepiece with over 60 years of history in unworn condition. When such a gem surfaces, it’s akin to uncovering a fragment of a bygone era. The intact beauty and delicate light of its dial evoke timeless elegance, merging the past and present into a harmonious whole. Today presents one of those exceptional occasions where a true relic from the 1960s resurfaces in pristine condition, essentially as it was when first sold. The Submariner 5512 offered here is undoubtedly one of the most attractive and well-preserved examples to appear on the auction market in recent years. The stainless steel case remains in remarkable condition, showing no signs of wear and retaining the original faceted lugs. The presence of the original sticker on the back further confirms its authenticity, as does the Oyster riveted bracelet. Reference 5512 is notable for being the first Submariner model to introduce crown guards for enhanced protection. This design evolved over time, leading to various iterations with their own nicknames and followings. The earliest versions featured square-shaped crown guards, of which very few are estimated to exist. Criticism of the bulky square crown guards prompted Rolex to modify their existing cases, leading to the “eagle beak” crown guard. Eventually, Rolex produced cases with the more streamlined pointed crown guards, as seen on this example. The highlight of this particular watch is its stunning, perfectly preserved glossy “exclamation mark” dial. The dial features an incredibly smooth and shiny surface, with intact luminous material and the distinctive minuscule dot of luminous material under the 6 o’clock hour marker—a feature found only on dials produced for a brief period around 1961/1962. The subtle aging of the luminous material and the topicalization at 9 o’clock lend the watch an exceptionally attractive look. This Submariner 5512 represents possibly the most beautiful and exceptional example of its kind to appear on the auction market for many time. Accompanied by its original box, warranty, and booklets, it stands as an unmissable treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.