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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Diver's watch

Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 'Meters First'

Partially verified

This Rolex Submariner, reference 5512, is a chronometer-certified diver's watch from circa 1967. The timepiece features a matte dial characterized by a 'Meters First' depth rating, denoting the measurement in meters before the equivalent in feet. This configuration is noted as a specific execution within the series' transition from earlier glossy gilt dials to matte versions. The watch is presented with a professionally refurbished Oyster case featuring visible chamfers and is paired with a 'rivet' Oyster bracelet secured by a blade clasp. The bezel assembly is equipped with a faded 'fat font' insert and a patinated pip. The dial displays Tritium markers that have developed a patina, with the handset appearing slightly darker in tone. It is marketed as a chronometer-certified version of the model, consistent with the 5512's historical position as an up-market counterpart to the 5513.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 with 'Meters First' matte dial and rivet bracelet.
Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 with 'Meters First' matte dial and rivet bracelet. — Oliver & Clarke. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
oliverandclarke.com
Category
Wristwatch · Diver's watch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
5512
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1967
Source-reported place
Switzerland

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Dial and Bezel Configuration

The watch features a matte dial, identified by its depth rating of '200m=660ft', which places the metric measurement before the imperial equivalent. This 'Meters First' printing is cited as the only configuration for this execution of the matte dial. The dial retains Tritium plots with visible patina, while the hands exhibit a slightly darker aging compared to the indices.

The bezel assembly incorporates a faded 'fat font' insert, which is accompanied by a patinated pip. The overall aesthetic is documented as having a clean, preserved dial surface. The printing 'SWISS - T < 25' is present at the bottom of the dial, indicating the use of radioactive Tritium luminous material as required by regulations of that era.

Evidence for this section
  • “matte dial example dating to circa 1967”
  • “known within the collector community as a 'Meters First' 5512 for its printing of the depth rating on the dial beginning with meters, followed by the equivalent in feet.”
  • “Inside, the dial is beautifully-preserved, with a nice clean surface, gently patinated Tritium plots, and a handset that has aged slightly darker.”

Case and Bracelet Construction

The timepiece is housed in an Oyster case, which the auction description reports has been professionally refurbished. The case features pronounced chamfers that remain present and clearly defined. This construction reflects the transition during the 5512 production run involving various crown guard shapes.

The watch is fitted with a 'rivet' Oyster bracelet, which is secured by a blade-style clasp.

Evidence for this section
  • “professionally refurbished Oyster case with those gorgeous chamfers clear and present”
  • “'rivet' Oyster bracelet with a blade clasp.”

Historical Context and Certification

The Reference 5512 was produced by Rolex as an up-market alternative to the Reference 5513. The 5512 was distinct for its chronometer certification, differentiating it within the Submariner model line. This example aligns with the broader transition period for the 5512, which saw the evolution from glossy gilt dials to the matte versions seen here.

The item is presented as an example of vintage collecting, focusing on specific details such as the dial depth configuration and the patina of the luminous elements. The auction description reports this watch's status as a 'Meters First' example, highlighting its place in the 5512 series production history.

Evidence for this section
  • “originally sold alongside the 5513 as an up-market chronometer certified version”
  • “5512 series transitioned from the glossy gilt dials of the early 1960s, to matte dials in the later examples”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber contained within this 5512 case?
  • Do the case number and movement serial number correspond to the 1967 timeframe provided?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 'Meters First'
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
ModelSubmariner“Rolex Submariner”
Reference5512“Reference 5512”
Datecirca 1967“dating to circa 1967”
BraceletRivet Oyster“'rivet' Oyster bracelet with a blade clasp”
BezelFaded fat font“faded 'fat font' insert with a patinataed pip”

Visible details

  • Faded 'fat font' bezel insert
  • Patinated Tritium dial plots
  • Darkened handset aging
  • Blade-clasp rivet bracelet

Research qualifications

  • Refurbishment status of the Oyster case
  • Extent of handset aging vs dial markers

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی غواصی Rolex Submariner رفرنس 5512 ملقب به Meters First

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record deb2a3b3d9

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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