Beschreibung:

Rolex
Manufacturer: Rolex Year: 1942 Movement No: 4113 Case No: 051’314 Model Name: Antimagnetique Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 55 VBR 17 2/3’’’, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex buckle Dimensions: 44mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Literature: For a similar watch see 100 Superlative Rolex Watches, John Goldberger, pg. 62-63 and I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pg. 144-147. Catalogue Essay Whenever the Rolex stainless steel reference 4113 split-seconds chronograph has appeared at auction it has always been a sensational horological event. The last two appearances have both resulted in a then new world record for a Rolex watch selling publicly. Scholarship tells us only twelve examples of reference 4113 were manufactured, and all were encased in stainless steel. From extensive research, three of the twelve examples have unknown whereabouts. All of the examples carry case numbers that range from 051’313 to 051’324, which means the present example was the second one made. The present watch bearing the serial 051’314 has been offered at auction twice, first at Christie’s New York in 1996 and the second time at Christie’s Geneva in 2013. Now in the “START-STOP-RESET” sale, this “crowned” gem graces the cover of this sale, and to many remains to be the most important Rolex wristwatch ever made by the firm. Interestingly, Rolex never offered this model directly to the public for sale. At the time, Rolex was active in sponsoring racing events, and our understanding is that this rare timepiece was presented to a select group of racing teams and their drivers. Some watches of the 4113 series have found their way to auction from descendants of team managers and racing drivers. In fact, one example surfaced at Christie’s London in 1991 from the original owner’s family. During his career he worked for a racing team with strong ties to the motorcar industry. Rolex was also closely associated with motor sports, and even sponsored Sir Malcolm Campbell, who made history while wearing a Rolex on his wrist during a competition. To collectors, reference 4113 is considered the ultimate top-of-the-line Rolex. In terms of originality and quality, this watch is presented in impressive overall condition and has remained virtually untouched since its last appearance at auction. It’s simply mesmerizing to stare at such a charismatic dial and think how impressive it is to have survived over seven decades with only a few signs of ageing to the surface. The dial is fitted with raised pink gold-colored Arabic and baton hour markers, and the surface has formed a subtle, elegant patina. The large, gentlemanly proportioned 44mm case is in remarkable condition, and retains the original satin finish throughout the side and back of the case. The bezel and raised portion of the lugs, however, displays a mirror-polished finish, which contrasts nicely with the rest of the case. It is clear upon closer examination that the watch is free of corrosion or restorations. Remarkably, reference 4113 has the largest diameter any Rolex wristwatch has ever received. To an educated and passionate collector of vintage Rolex wristwatches, the present reference 4113 epitomizes an opportunity not to be missed. All of the pieces that are accounted for of this extraordinary series are now in the hands of the world’s most prestigious and sophisticated private collections. The offering of this spectacular, coveted Rolex split-seconds chronograph is an event by itself, and a trophy that the most demanding collectors of vintage wristwatches should not miss. Read More