Rolex - START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs Geneva Friday, May 13, 2016 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Rolex
    Year: 1939
    Reference No: 3330
    Case No: 041'572
    Model Name: Antimagnetic
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. Valjoux 22, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel buckle
    Dimensions: 37mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Literature: The present watch is illustrated in I Cronografi Rolex – La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pg. 118-119 and in John Goldberger's 100 Superlative Rolex Watches, pg. 53. For similar examples of this reference and its sister ref. 3335, see Pucci Papaleo’s I Cronografi Rolex – La Leggenda, pg. 114-127.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Throughout the history of Rolex, the “crowned” manufacturer has consistently proven that it is capable of creating modern designs while paying homage to the iconic styles established early on during the company’s formative years.

    References 3330 and 3335 are considered amongst the rarest and largest pre-Oyster Rolex chronographs ever produced by the firm. Produced in the 1940s, the present watch boasts a large case, which was unique for Rolex during this time period, with a diameter of 37 mm.

    The reference 3330 was ahead of its time, as its innovative design is much more typical for today’s market. This antimagnetic chronograph reference has increased in desirability amongst collectors due to its rarity and stunning looks. Recognizable by its twelve-hour register, a feature that was not available from other distinguished firms, and its well-proportioned case, this watch is one of only approximately 10 reference 3330s to appear at auction in the past 15 years, underscoring this model’s utter exclusivity.

    The present, close to mint condition example, is certainly amongst the finest of all of these. It stands out especially by its breathtaking salmon colored dial, further enhancing its desirability. The extraordinary dial features both a tachometer and telemeter scale along its outer rim. The lugs and bezel retain sharp, crisp edges, and the case is complete with the original crown and rectangular pushers in place. The condition, rarity, and beauty of the present watch is sure to impress even the most discerning collectors of the world’s finest watches.

  • Artist Biography

    Rolex

    Swiss • 1905

    Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.

    One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.

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Ref. 3330
An extremely rare, attractive and large stainless steel antimagnetic chronograph wristwatch with salmon colored dial, tachometer and telemeter scales.

1939
37mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF200,000 - 400,000 

Sold for CHF389,000

Contact Specialist
Livia Russo
+41 22 317 81 86

START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs

Geneva Auction 14 May 2016