Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 - 'MK1 Maxi'

The Rolex Submariner is a true icon — and the word "icon" does get thrown around an awful lot. If you were to ask ten people at random to draw you their idea of a watch looks like, chances are they would draw or describe something that looks like a Rolex Submariner. It’s the dive watch of reference, and good/bad/indifferent there is no escaping it. Throughout its 70-year production, there have been countless small changes made to the model, with the Reference 5512 representing a very interesting period in the Submariner story.

The Ref. 5512 was originally sold alongside the 5513 as an up-market chronometer certified version of the venerable dive watch icon. During its production run, the 5512 series transitioned from the glossy gilt dials of the early 1960s, to matte dials in the later examples — as well as a bevy of different case and crown guard shapes.

The piece that we have here dates to circa 1978 and features what is known within the collecting community as a 'MK1 Maxi' dial. The case has been professionally refurbished and features thick prominent lugs with correct factory-spec finishing. The correct solid-link Oyster bracelet remains unpolished and shows matching wear. Inside, that 'Maxi' dial with it's oversized plots is beautifully preserved and seemingly devoid of any wear or damage. The Tritium plots exhibit a light and even patina throughout, and the handset matches perfectly. The black aluminum bezel insert is also in excellent condition, shows a light surface patina and has a nicely matching patinated Tritium pip.