Vintage Rolex Submariner 5512 Square Crown Guards Tropical sold on watchPool24

Description ▲

In the realm of Rolex collector's watches, there are few timepieces that exude as much fascination and exclusivity as the exceptionally rare Rolex Submariner 5512 with square crown guards from 1959. A timepiece revered not only for its historical significance but also for its breathtaking aesthetics, this example boasts an enchanting tropical dial - a detail so rare it borders on the miraculous.

Introduced in 1959 to replace references 5510 and 6538, the Submariner 5512 brought groundbreaking design innovations, such as a smaller winding crown and the strikingly distinctive square crown guards. However, professional divers soon discovered that this design made unscrewing the crown too difficult, leading Rolex to swiftly redesign the guards to a pointed shape in 1960. As a result, the Square Crown Guard Submariner was produced for just a brief moment in history, with an estimated 100 examples ever made - starting with serial numbers 477.xxx - making it one of the rarest vintage Rolex models.

The Square Crown Guard Submariner is already an icon in its own right, with its distinct black dial bearing the waterproof depth (200 meters – 660 feet) elegantly inscribed in silver, while the word "Submariner" shimmers in gilt. Yet, when the dial transforms over decades into the coveted tropical hue, revealing a mesmerizing spider-web patina of fine cracks, it elevates the watch to a realm of pure magic. The visual poetry of this spider dial makes it a tangible representation of time’s gentle touch.

This particular piece, likely among the earliest examples, represents not just a watch but a time capsule of innovation, design evolution, and the serendipitous beauty bestowed by decades of wear. It is a treasure of unparalleled allure, a piece of horological history that will enchant every single watch collector worldwide.

Serial number: 477xxx (1959)

Features ▲

Manufacturer: Rolex

Model: Submariner

Reference: 5512

Functions: central second - screw-down crown - hour and minute - screwed-on caseback

Material: Stainless steel

Dial: Tropical

Watch glass: acrylic crystal

Bracelet: stainless steel

Type of clasp: deployant buckle

Diameter: 40mm

Caliber name: Rolex 1530

Movement type: automatic

Year of Manufacture: 1959

Stock No.: PTV2136

Overall condition: 9 - has rarely been worn - top condition

Why shop with WatchPool? ▲

We stand fully behind the authenticity and quality of our watches. Each watch is carefully inspected and comes with a 12-month WatchPool warranty. Additionally, we guarantee the flawless functionality and condition of the watch as described.

All shipments are insured and available worldwide, with shipping and returns covered by us. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you may return the watch in its original condition within 14 days of receipt, no questions asked.

Protecting your privacy is important to us. Your personal information, including address, login and payment details, is securely transmitted using encryption to ensure it is safe from unauthorized access.

Your trust is our commitment - ensuring a safe and seamless shopping experience.

Get to know us better - learn more about our team and our global references.

See the watch in person ▲

All watches are located in our office in Munich, Germany. You are very welcome to visit us.

Make an appointment