Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 'Meters First'
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1967
Maker / issuer
RolexThis Rolex Submariner, reference 5512, is a chronometer-certified diver's watch from circa 1967. The timepiece features a matte dial characterized by a 'Meters First' depth rating, denoting the measurement in meters before the equivalent in feet.
This configuration is noted as a specific execution within the series' transition from earlier glossy gilt dials to matte versions. The watch is presented with a professionally refurbished Oyster case featuring visible chamfers and is paired with a 'rivet' Oyster bracelet secured by a blade clasp. The bezel assembly is equipped with a faded 'fat font' insert and a patinated pip. The dial displays Tritium markers that have developed a patina, with the handset appearing slightly darker in tone.
It is marketed as a chronometer-certified version of the model, consistent with the 5512's historical position as an up-market counterpart to the 5513.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- circa 1967
- Type
- Diver's watch
- Bezel
- Faded fat font
- Model
- Submariner
- Bracelet
- Rivet Oyster
- Reference
- 5512
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
Design
- Visible features
- • Faded 'fat font' bezel insert • Patinated Tritium dial plots • Darkened handset aging • Blade-clasp rivet bracelet
- Dial and Bezel Configuration
- The watch features a matte dial, identified by its depth rating of '200m=660ft', which places the metric measurement before the imperial equivalent. This 'Meters First' printing is cited as the only configuration for this execution of the matte dial. The dial retains Tritium plots with visible patina, while the hands exhibit a slightly darker aging compared to the indices. The bezel assembly incorporates a faded 'fat font' insert, which is accompanied by a patinated pip. The overall aesthetic is documented as having a clean, preserved dial surface. The printing 'SWISS - T < 25' is present at the bottom of the dial, indicating the use of radioactive Tritium luminous material as required by regulations of that era.
- Case and Bracelet Construction
- The timepiece is housed in an Oyster case, which the auction description reports has been professionally refurbished. The case features pronounced chamfers that remain present and clearly defined. This construction reflects the transition during the 5512 production run involving various crown guard shapes. The watch is fitted with a 'rivet' Oyster bracelet, which is secured by a blade-style clasp.
- Historical Context and Certification
- The Reference 5512 was produced by Rolex as an up-market alternative to the Reference 5513. The 5512 was distinct for its chronometer certification, differentiating it within the Submariner model line. This example aligns with the broader transition period for the 5512, which saw the evolution from glossy gilt dials to the matte versions seen here. The item is presented as an example of vintage collecting, focusing on specific details such as the dial depth configuration and the patina of the luminous elements. The auction description reports this watch's status as a 'Meters First' example, highlighting its place in the 5512 series production history.
Identification
- Reference
- 5512
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Refurbishment status of the Oyster case
- Research required: Extent of handset aging vs dial markers