ROLEX | SUBMARINER REF 5512A STAINLESS STEEL AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH WITH POINTED CROWN GUARDS AND GILT DIAL CIRCA 1960

Dial: black giltCaliber: cal. 1530 automatic, 25 jewelsCase: stainless steel, screw down case back and crownCase number: 577868Closure: stainless steel Rolex rivet bracelet with folding claspDimensions: 37 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 175 mmSigned: case, dial and movement

Case: The case is in good overall condition, and in our view, has seen a polishing in its past. The lugs still retain thick proportions and the bevels, which are slightly rounded at the edges from the polishing. The case back, in our view, might not be original to the watch. Dial: The dial has aged evenly and shows pitting to the lacquer. The hour markers are intact, and are a light shade of brown. The crystal might have possibly been later added. Movement: The movement is in good overall condition, with some oxidation present most likely from age. The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

Rolex introduced the reference 5512 in 1959 as a continuation of the Submariner which launched officially in 1954 with the ref. 6200. The 5512 was the first Submariner to include crown guards for added protection. The first examples featured square, hard edged crown guards which lasted for a short production run, followed by the pointed guards as featured on the present lot. These types of guards lasted for a few years, before being replaced by the rounded guards which have remained through current generations. The present lot also bears a stunning black dial with gilt lettering. The dial has remained well preserved under the original, crazed crystal, with the gloss varnish faded to an attractively matte finish. We are pleased to offer the present lot from the descendants of the original owner along side lot 251. The pair invoke the vision of a truly discerning collector.