1964 Rolex Submariner 5512 Explorer Dial Watch
Plenty of vintage Rolexes are collectible, yet few if any compare to Ref. 5512. It features the extremely rare 3-6-9 Explorer, or "Crown 62" dial, which was produced for just a short time in the 1960s and was typically replaced when the watches went for servicing. This particular example was purchased by a coal miner for just $90 in 1964 to celebrate his 40th birthday and was passed down to other family members after his death. Accompanied by its original box, guarantee, and service booklet, it recently sold at auction for $250,000.
Photos: Gardiner Houlgate