Like the rest of Rolex’s legendary line of sports watches, the Submariner didn’t really develop its own design until the late 1950s. With the introduction of the 5512 reference model in 1959, the Rolex Submariner’s case grew to 40mm in length, and a crown guard was added for the first time. These two features dramatically changed the overall look of the Rolex Submariner, and they have remained the defining features of the Rolex Submariner ever since.
Production of Rolex Submariner 5512 lasted until 1978 and just like with Rolex’s other sports watch collections, the reference 5512 underwent many changes throughout the 1960s. During its production run, the ref. 5512 Submariner was fitted with so many different dials, cases, bezels, and bracelets. Early examples were fitted with glossy gilt dials and pointed crown guard cases; however, both of these traits were phased out by the mid/late 1960s and were completely replaced by matte dials and square crown-guard cases.
What’s more, even among the early-production gilt dial versions of the fake Rolex Submariner 5512, there exists a range of further variations in regards to the specific type of gilt dial. The watch dates back to 1961 and is an early example of this historic submarine reference. Like one would expect to find on an early-production reference 5512 Submariner, the PCG case is fitted with a glossy gilt dial; however, it is what is famous as a “2-Line” dial since it pre-dates the arrival of the additional two lines of chronometer-certification text – something that defines all later-era examples of the Rolex Submariner 5512.
Besides, the gilt dial of this special example has both a chapter ring and an exclamation mark. The ‘chapter ring’ designation refers to the minute track markers, which are connected and enclosed by a circle along their periphery, while the ‘exclamation point’ appears as a small luminous dot located just below the 6 o’clock marker. The exclamation mark is a unique feature that appears only on vintage Rolex sports replica watches produced in the early 1960s. Although unconfirmed, the mark is believed to be used to indicate that the radiation levels of the luminous material have been adapted to the new regulations of the Atomic Energy Commission.
This particular replica Rolex Submariner 5512 is equipped with a roughly correct riveted link Oyster bracelet and a “Long 5” bezel insert with its luminescent pearl still intact, adding to the curiosity and excitement of the vintage collector. In addition, the luminescent material on the dial and hands has developed a rich creamy patina, making this a rare and important example of Rolex Submariner history in excellent condition.
