29 Rolex Really Uncommon and Remarkable, Single Button Chronograph Wristwatch, in Gold, With Two-tone Silvered Dial, Reference 2303, Retailed by Broudarge Paris

Estimate: € 25.000 –⁠ 50.000

Model: Monopusher Chronograph
Reference: 2303
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1926
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 10 1/2
Case N°: 17 887
Dimensions: 28 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case

A tiny piece of history, the reference 2303 was launched in the 1920s and was advertised as “the smallest chronograph in the world”. Available in stainless steel, 14K and 18K yellow gold, it was equipped with one of the most attractive and sophisticated compilations, the single button chronograph mechanism, the quest was even harder given the very small dimensions of the whole watch. Easily explained, the mono-pusher complication controls all of these functions through only one button, either in the band or in the crown (such as the present example) instead of the two classical pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock. The lot here offered strikes of the very well preserved two bodies, yellow-gold case with a roaring oxidation spreading around the bezel. The attractive two-tone silvered dial, typical for chronograph wristwatches of the period, has printed black Arabic numbers, outer tachometer and blued steel feuille hands. At 6 o’clock, slightly below the center, is located the signature of the French retailer Broudarge Paris. In the 1920s it was located at 131 boulevard Sebastopol and anybody could by a watch for only 15 francs! A high-quality watch could cost 18 francs and women were not forgotten either since Broudarge is also famous for its charming and precious jewels.