171 Rolex Very Rare and Unusual, Prince “Chronometer”, Wristwatch in Steel and Pink Gold, With Jumping Hours Complication, Reference 1770

Estimate: € 10,000 –⁠ 20,000

Model: Prince Chronometre
Reference: 1770
Case Material: Stainless Steel and Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1930s
Movement: Manual
Case N°: 13378
Dimensions: 21 × 42 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement

The Prince is probably one of those models that lead the foundations for the ascent of Rolex in watchmaking world. Distinct, refined and elegant this watch is among the most attractive Art Deco wristwatches ever made and one of the symbols of luxury during the Depression-era. Now considered as one of the most groundbreaking watches ever released, the Prince has been produced in various versions such as the Classic, the Brancard or the Chronometer like the lot offered here. The “Prince Chronometer” was released in the 1930s and represents one of the coolest reiterations of this model thanks to its unusual complication of the jumping hours. The dial is indeed structured in a slightly different way compared to all the other Prince: still maintaining the classical subsidiary dial for constant seconds at six o’clock but, instead of presenting the two hands for hours and minutes, it only offers the minutes one while the hours are indicated by a small aperture at 12 o’clock. This very model with its steel and pink-gold curve case is very well preserved, still presenting deep engravings on the back and a charming silvered dial. Absolutely rare, reference 1770 represents one of the most elusive and sought after by collectors of vintage Rolex. It rarely appeared on the market in recent years, making this an unmistakable opportunity to purchase a true piece of history.