38 Rolex Very Well Preserved and Rare, Anti-Magnetic Chronograph, Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, With Tachymetric and Telemetric Scale Dial, Reference 4537

Estimate: €80,000 –⁠ 160,000

Model: Pre Daytona
Reference: 4537
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1946
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 72
Case N°: 470749
Dimensions: 37 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement

If you are looking for something absolutely rare, this is definitely the right watch. This is an exceptional Rolex reference 4537, one of the most sought-after by collectors around the world. Its production began immediately after the end of the Second World War to finish a few years later. Unlike the current standards of Rolex with massive amounts of production, of the reference 4537 was realized, it is believed, a little less than 100 copies and is thought only 24 in 18k yellow gold, making it an almost impossible object. This is the first chronograph to present 3 counters on the dial instead of the usual two and the modernized “tonneau-shaped” Oyster case. In fact, it replaced reference 4048 which still featured the more round “Calatrava-style” case. A predecessor of reference 6034, reference 4537 was available in yellow, pink gold or in stainless steel. The present lot is a stunning specimen in 18k yellow gold preserved in beautiful conditions. The case has been very well preserved, retaining its full proportions, survived in remarkably crisp overall condition with the case showing hardly any signs of polishing but presenting on the left side a fascinating dark copper oxidation. The silvered dial, gracefully aged over the years, has a warm tone with the blue telemeter scale and the black tachymeter scale to the outside create subtile and handsome features mixed with the applied yellow-gold Arabic and triangle numerals. Powered by the caliber 72, in the last years very few examples of this extremely rare reference have appeared to the market, and considering the nice overall condition, gorgeous aesthetic, added to its rare case material this is an exciting chronograph watch for a high-level collector and a chance to not be missed.