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Lot Essay
The present watch is an extremely attractive and very rare example of the popular Submariner reference 5512, differing from standard versions by featuring the much sought-after "underline dial", characterized by a small silvered line on the dial. In this case, the silver underline is placed under four lines of text, in two colors: the two lines of the depth rating and “SUBMARINER” are in gold or “gilt” text while “SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED” is split across two lines in discreet silver text. For Rolex collectors, this is certainly one of the rarest and most desirable variations of the reference 5512.
This watch, of course, features the popular black lacquer dial, which is often referred to as a black gloss dial. These black dials must be regarded as the ultimate state of the art in dial manufacturing as they reveal a rich complexity of different layers applied to the metal base. In fact, the gilt writing and minute markings are not printed on the black background but underneath and shine through in negative relief. However, to further enhance its sophistication, the silvered underline is superimposed and printed onto the black background. The meaning of the underline and “exclamation” dials have been interpreted to mean that the luminous material used on the dial and in the hands was no longer radium, but likely tritium, although that has been the subject of some debate among Rolex collectors.
The dial has developed a beautiful and even “stardust” patina that in combination with the rare dial gives the watch a remarkable vintage look.
Furthermore, the watch features pointed crown guards, another detail making this a watch stand out against its later reference 5512 siblings.
For those seeking their first Submariner or those seeking to build their collections, the present watch is a remarkable opportunity to purchase what can be considered one of the rarest variations of the reference 5512.
For other examples of Submariners with underline dials see Rolex Submariner Story by Franca & Guido Mondani, Lele Ravagnani, Guido Mondani Editore, pp. 58 & 59.
This watch, of course, features the popular black lacquer dial, which is often referred to as a black gloss dial. These black dials must be regarded as the ultimate state of the art in dial manufacturing as they reveal a rich complexity of different layers applied to the metal base. In fact, the gilt writing and minute markings are not printed on the black background but underneath and shine through in negative relief. However, to further enhance its sophistication, the silvered underline is superimposed and printed onto the black background. The meaning of the underline and “exclamation” dials have been interpreted to mean that the luminous material used on the dial and in the hands was no longer radium, but likely tritium, although that has been the subject of some debate among Rolex collectors.
The dial has developed a beautiful and even “stardust” patina that in combination with the rare dial gives the watch a remarkable vintage look.
Furthermore, the watch features pointed crown guards, another detail making this a watch stand out against its later reference 5512 siblings.
For those seeking their first Submariner or those seeking to build their collections, the present watch is a remarkable opportunity to purchase what can be considered one of the rarest variations of the reference 5512.
For other examples of Submariners with underline dials see Rolex Submariner Story by Franca & Guido Mondani, Lele Ravagnani, Guido Mondani Editore, pp. 58 & 59.