ROLEX, SUBMARINER, REF. 5512Important information about this lot
Price Realised USD 22,500
Estimate
USD 20,000 - USD 30,000
Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
Lot Essay
Rolex introduced the reference 5512 in 1959 and it was in production until circa 1980. The 5512 was the first Submariner to feature crown guards. The reference 5512 featured a chronometer-rated movement and text on the dial noting that designation, whereas the reference 5513 was not rated as a chronometer. This example features a 5513 case back stamped IV.67 indicating it is from fourth quarter of 1967. This 5512 has quite a handsome aesthetic due to the faded bezel that almost looks blue and the light-yellow colored lume in the hands and on the dial.
This watch comes from the nephew of the original owner, who purchased the watch new in 1968. The original owner wore the watch from 1968 until his passing in 2004. During this time, the pearl had fallen out of the bezel and instead of replacing the bezel, he used luminous paint to fill it in, and it remains that way. Since the watch was passed down in 2004 it was hardly worn, however the bracelet was replaced with a modern one and the crystal was replaced. Thankfully, the current owner saved the original rivet bracelet and original crystal as they come with the watch. This is a great opportunity to own a complete 5512 coming from the family of the original owner.
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Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
The case is in very good condition with light scratches and few nicks. The lugs retain their original bevels. The case appears to have been lightly polished. The back of the lugs show evidence of the bracelet. The case back has shallow pitting throughout and light scratches. The inside of the case back has watchmaker's marks. The inside of the case back is stamped "5513," and, "IV.67," indicating its manufacture in the third quarter of 1967. The crown, bezel and bezel insert appear to be original. The bezel insert has faded to a dark blue. The pip appears to be replaced. The dial and hands are in excellent condition and appear to be original. The luminous material in the hour markers and hands have turned to a yellow with age and match. The luminous material in the second hand is cracked. The hands have developed a light patina. The end links are stamped, "580" and the bracelet "OP3 93150." The bracelet is in good condition with few scratches. The bracelet appears to have been lightly polished. The movement is in working order at the time of cataloging, consistent with the age of the watch. The movement has not been tested for accuracy. A service is recommended given the age of the watch.