The Rolex Submariner is with no doubt one of the world’s most iconic wristwatches. Designed for exploring the deep depths of the ocean, vintage submariners are now somewhat of a luxury, commanding high values with a respected following worldwide. With the reference 5512 fitted with a glossy “four-liner” dial already a rare bird, it is even rarer to have access to photocopies of the original owner from Japan wearing the watch. A watch once owned by Keinosuke Hara, a Japanese motorcycle enthusiast and engineer who once designed and built at Tokyo Hatsudo Company, the present reference 5512 is an attractive watch with an important provenance from the world of motorcycling.

The reference 5512 Submariner was first introduced to the public in 1959, with an important upgrade of crown guards which are witnessed in all Submariner models till date. The earliest reference 5512 Submariner featured square crown guards, however only minimal quantities were produced as diver’s found it challenging to operate the crown whilst gloved. With the feedback received, Rolex immediately stopped its production on square crown guards and decided to feature pointed crown guards for practicality.

The present example is a Rolex Submariner reference 5512 fitted with a black glossy “four-liner” dial was purchased by Mr. Hara on 10th January, 1962 in Haiwaii on his way back to Japan after his trip to the Daytona Beach Motorcycle US Grand Prix. The sentimental Submariner ref. 5512 was gifted to his son Jun Hara in 1985 and has remained in the safe ever since, until now.