Introductory Summary
The Rolex Submariner reference 5512 is a stainless steel, no-date dive watch produced from 1959 until 1978 and represents Rolex’s first crown-guard Submariner. It holds a pivotal place in Submariner history as the reference that established the modern professional dive-watch architecture Rolex would refine for decades.
Core Specifications
- Brand: Rolex
- Collection: Submariner
- Reference: 5512
- Production Start: 1959
- Production End: 1978
- Status: Discontinued
- Case Size: 40mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Bezel: Black Aluminium, Bidirectional (1959-1978) / Unidirectional (1978 onwards)
- Dial: Black
- Crystal: Acrylic
- Bracelet/Strap: Oyster Bracelet
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 1560 / 1570
- Power Reserve: 48 Hours
- Water Resistance: 200m / 660ft
Reference Profile
The 5512 introduced crown guards to the Submariner line and standardised the 40mm case that became synonymous with the model. Produced in multiple case and dial variations over its long lifespan, it is best known as a chronometer-rated Submariner, setting it apart from the later 5513 and positioning it as the technically superior no-date option within Rolex’s professional range at the time.
Movement Overview
The watch was powered by either the Rolex calibre 1560 or the later calibre 1570, both automatic movements offering approximately 48 hours of power reserve. These movements are highly regarded for their robustness and precision, and their chronometer certification reinforced the 5512’s role as Rolex’s flagship no-date dive watch during the 1960s and 1970s.
Functions & Complications
The Rolex 5512 displays hours, minutes, and central seconds only, with no date complication, preserving a clean and symmetrical dial layout. It features a black aluminium dive bezel for elapsed time measurement, acrylic crystal, screw-down crown, and a depth rating of 200 metres, with bezel operation evolving from bidirectional to unidirectional during the production run.
Buyer Considerations
This reference is particularly appealing to collectors due to its chronometer status, relative rarity compared to the 5513, and wide range of dial and case variations. Originality is critical, as service dials, incorrect bezel inserts, or mismatched movements can significantly affect value, and understanding period-correct configurations is essential when evaluating examples.
Comparisons & Aternatives
The 5512 is most often compared to the non-chronometer 5513, which shared a similar case but was produced in far greater numbers, and to the later 14060, which revived the no-date Submariner in a modern context. Within the vintage Submariner lineage, the 5512 is widely regarded as the blueprint for the modern professional Rolex dive watch.