5512, Submariner, 'Four-Liner' Gilt Dial, Steel

The 5512 was introduced in 1959, but it was not until 1962 with introduction of the 5513 that this ‘Four-Liner’ dial became the standard. In 1962, the 5513 was introduced as the non Chronometer certified Submariner. Post 1962, the 5512 was updated to the calibre 1560, which was Chronometer grade. Alongside that, the dial proudly displayed SCOC text. The premium was, at 1968, 50 USD. Because of that premium, the ‘Four-Liner’ 5512 is approximately 10 times rarer than its 5513 sibling. According to Rolex, there are 17,338 examples of the 5512 and 151,449 examples of the 5513. In gilt dial, far fewer. 

The 5512 was first introduced in 1959, somewhat confusingly not as a Chronometer at first, and debuted the introduction of crown guards. The model became the ‘SCOC’ Submariner in 1962, where prior it was simply the Submariner with crown guards. There are a few ‘early’ 5512s that read, OCC, but only a handful. However, after 1962, the all became the 5512 we know and love today for its Chronometer rated calibre. 

Front 1953 until 1966, all dials in the 5512 were galvanically printed gilt, gloss dials. This was an intensive process which resulted in this beautiful, recessed gold text. The SCOC text on this generation of 5512 was executed after the main dial production process in silver ink. This c. 1966 ‘Classic Coronet’ dial was in production just before the Bart with traditional Coronet proportions. In addition, it is meters first with beautifully domed plots. 

The 5512 has seen a cult following develop more acutely since Rolex’s release of production number data. The extra attention and value which the 5512 commanded in period have seen it become the desirable over time as well to a majority of collectors. In this gilt configuration with a beautifully aged bezel and extremely well-preserved worn case, it is a dream Submariner. This is the golden era of Rolex as seen through their most universally adored model.

This 5512 presents in remarkable overall condition. Starting at the gilt dial, all the gloss layer is beautifully glass with no fractures or spidering. Left of 12 there are some light scratches at the very edge which should be mentioned. All original luminous material is present, with large domed plots which fluoresce correctly and evenly under UV. These applications match the handset perfectly under both lights. Its bezel has ghosted to a blue-grey with the pip still present. Its case (1.503M serial) is fantastically sharp, a true stand out example that is very likely to never have been polished. It sports honest and even wear throughout. It comes on its original 7206 Oyster rivet bracelet in a comparable strong state of condition, stamped 2/69 with 58 end links. Its calibre is running beautifully within specification with healthy amplitude on our timing equipment.

This example is modelled on an average-sized 7-inch wrist.