Le Monde Edmond shares his growing collection of early Rolex Submariners, featuring a 1953 Ref. 6204, a Ref. 6536-1, and an early 1962 Ref. 5512. He reflects on the challenges and strategies of collecting vintage Rolex, particularly when focusing on specific lines and generations. Edmond invites the community to discuss their own Rolex collecting philosophies, sparking a conversation about depth versus breadth in horological pursuits.

Within Rolex it is clear. For me the submariner is one of the most interesting lines. I just recently acquired a 6204 from 1953, one of the earliest submariners. Now there are three generation of submariners in the collection. A 6204. A 6536-1 and a 5512 (an early example from 1962 with PCG, CR and laquer dial with gilt printing). I now face a dilemma. I cannot go back earlier - the 6204 is the earliest example of Submariner. I can go later though. Surely missing is a 6538. Perhaps also a 5510 (unlikely as they are super rare especially in half way acceptable condition). Then a 5508 and lastly a 5513. I cannot go further out as I don't care for any submariner with a date.
Perhaps the solution is to go deeper within each generation. So an aim could be to collect all 6200 versions. 6204, 6205, a sub-aqua. Or all versions of the SC examples. I have to think about my strategy. I am not sure yet what to do.
What is your strategy for collecting Rolex? Do you concentrate on specific lines? Generations?
Best Edmond
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5508
The Rolex Submariner reference 5508 represents the No Date series within the Submariner model range. Produced from 1958 to 1962, this reference is distinguished by its black dial that has developed spider patina over time.
The 5508 features a 37mm stainless steel case fitted with an acrylic crystal and rotating bezel. Water resistance is rated to 200 meters. The automatic Cal. 1530 movement provides 42-48 hours of power reserve. The watch is paired with a steel bracelet.
This reference appeals to collectors focused on vintage Submariner variants from the late 1950s and early 1960s production period. The spider patina dial condition represents a specific aging characteristic that develops over decades. Within the No Date Submariner lineup, the 5508 occupies the position of a four-year production run reference with the Cal. 1530 movement.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 1530
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 37 mm
- Dial
- Black with spider patina
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5510
The Submariner reference 5510 is a notable example within the early production of the model line, distinguished by its "Big Crown" design. This reference was produced for a very short period, making it one of the rarer variants. It represents a transitional phase in the Submariner's development, bridging earlier designs with later, more standardized configurations. Its aesthetic aligns with the functional tool watch philosophy prevalent at the time of its introduction.
The case of the reference 5510 is constructed from stainless steel, featuring a diameter characteristic of its era. It houses an automatic movement, specifically the Caliber 1530, which provides reliable timekeeping. The crystal protecting the dial is made of acrylic, a common material for watches of this period, contributing to its period-correct appearance. The water resistance rating was a significant feature for the model at its release.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in the foundational period of the Submariner. Its limited production run and specific design elements, particularly the oversized winding crown, contribute to its desirability. The 5510 is considered a key reference for understanding the evolution of the Submariner series, showcasing the design language and technical specifications that preceded subsequent iterations.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 1530
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 38mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512
Rolex Submariner Reference 5512
The Submariner reference 5512 represents Rolex's no-date variant within the Submariner series. Distinguished by its clean dial layout without date complication, this reference was produced from 1962 to 1989, spanning nearly three decades of manufacturing.
The 40mm stainless steel case houses either caliber 1560 or 1570 automatic movements, providing 42-48 hours of power reserve. The watch features a black dial, unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert, and acrylic crystal. Water resistance extends to 200 meters, with the watch fitted to a stainless steel bracelet.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking the fundamental Submariner aesthetic without date functionality. The extended production period and dual caliber usage create multiple variations within the 5512 designation. The no-date configuration offers symmetrical dial proportions that attract purists within the collecting community.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 1560/1570
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513
The Rolex Submariner reference 5513 is a specific iteration within the Submariner model line. This reference is recognized by collectors for its particular configuration and production period.
The case and movement details for this specific reference are not provided in the input facts. Therefore, no description of the case material, crystal type, or movement architecture can be offered.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in the Submariner line. Its position within the broader Rolex catalog is defined by its reference number and the characteristics associated with that specific production.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Rolex Caliber 1520 / 1530
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black (Gilt or Matte)
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 6200
Rolex Submariner Reference 6200
The Rolex Submariner reference 6200 represents an early iteration within the Submariner No Date series. Produced during 1954-1955, this reference features a 37mm case size and incorporates the essential diving watch elements of a rotating unidirectional bezel and 200-meter water resistance. The black dial configuration provides the foundational aesthetic that would characterize the series.
The 37mm stainless steel case houses the automatic caliber A.260 movement, offering a 42-hour power reserve. An acrylic crystal protects the black dial, while the rotating unidirectional bezel provides the timing functionality. The watch is completed with a steel bracelet, maintaining material consistency throughout the construction.
This reference appeals to collectors focused on early Submariner iterations and those interested in the technical specifications of 1950s Rolex production. The brief production window of 1954-1955 and the specific caliber A.260 movement distinguish this reference within the broader Submariner catalog. The 37mm case size and acrylic crystal reflect the manufacturing standards of the mid-1950s period.
Specifications
- Caliber
- A.260
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 37 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic