1972 Rolex Submariner Reference 5512 Why This Watch Matters This is a textbook example of why a nice vintage Submariner with a gorgeous patina never goes out of style. The Full Story The demand for vintage Submariner models has been constantly accelerating, and discerning collectors are always on the hunt for a beautiful example with an even patina. It's a matter of luck for a watch to fade evenly to gain that soft black color on the dial and bezel, and that killer soft creamy vanilla tone on the luminous material – and this example covers all those criteria. The reference 5512 is considered to be the father of the modern Submariner model; it has a Rolex chronometer-certified movement inside (the caliber 1570) and a four-line indication on the dial that often distinguishes the difference between the non-chronometer reference 5513. Another ingenious addition was the crown guards (with pointed and square variations) in order to better protect the crown from being accidentally knocked off. It had a relatively short run for about 19 years. Much has been written about a reference 5512 and one can get very cerebral about the topic, but for this one, let your intuition speak for itself. The Fine Print Maker: Rolex Model: Submariner Reference: 5512, caseback stamped 5513 Year: Circa 1972 Case No: 3332XXX Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 39.5mm diameter; 14mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Rolex self-winding movement caliber 1570 Bracelet/Strap: Rolex Oyster stainless steel bracelet Reference 9315, end pieces stamped 380 Lug Width: 20mm Box/Papers: N/A What we Love and What You Should Know The watch is a respectable example with a nice patina on the dial matching the soft black hue of the bezel with the pearl still intact. There is a faint white cast over the right half of the bezel. There are very small black spots that are visible under the inverted triangle at 12 o’clock. The hands and the lume on the hands show light wear, but the overall feel and the color of the lume matches the color of the lume plots on the dial. The case may have been lightly polished in the past as indicated by the smoothness of the surface of the nick on the bottom right lug. The tips of the lugs exhibit some roundness, but the lugs retain a good amount of thickness considering the watch's age. The bracelet shows some stretch between the links.
