The present example is an early version of reference 5512. Launched in 1959, The present lot is the first model of Submariner to feature crown guards.

Exceptional details present on this example make it a highly desired reference 5512 with its nearly perfectly preserved glossy dial. The gilt outer seconds track, referred to as a “chapter ring” are characteristic of these early examples, matching the correct gilt two-lines of text found at 6 o’clock. Also, another small but very important detail at 6 o’clock is the dot that is presented underneath the index which collectors identify it as an “exclamation mark” dial. Such dials were in production only during a short period of time between 1961 and 1962 and are one of the first attempts to identify a lower radiation count compared to earlier dials.

The case also boasts a particularly collectable trait: the pointed crown guards (or “Cornino” – literally “small horn” in Italian). The genesis of this detail is very interesting. The very first crown-guard cases featured large square crown guards. When clients complained about the bulkiness of this feature, Rolex filed away the square crown guard of the cases they had in stock, leaving only a small pointed guard. Thus, the “Cornino” was born. Successive cases will be produced with the flat crown guard which became the standard for the reference.

Considering the strong case with beautiful, factory-original bevels still seen on the lugs and the well-preserved exclamation mark gilt dial presented in overall attractive condition make this timepiece a watch for shrewd collectors of rare Submariners.