125 Rolex Extremely Well Preserved, Untouched and Very Desirable, Square-Shape Chronograph Wristwatch in Pink Gold, With Gorgeous Black Gilt Dial, Reference 3529

Estimate: € 35,000 –⁠ 70,000

Sold € 118,300

Model: Chronograph
Reference: 3529
Case Material: Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1939
Movement: Manual
Case N°: 53461
Dimensions: 25 × 25 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

Symbol of numerical perfection, rationality and essentiality, the perfect geometric regularity of the square has been explored in various fields and periods: classical and modern architecture, art in all its form and contemporary technology with its pixels. A spiritual but solid figure, the square appears to have something magical, capable of captivating. For this reason Rolex has used it to give birth to some very special creations, such as the reference 3529. Launched in 1939 and in production until 1942 circa, at the time was the smallest wristwatch ever produced. It also represented the first Rolex’s square chronograph and the unique water-resistant one of the Swiss brand. Only 62 specimens combining stainless steel, yellow and pink gold were produced, making this watch an absolute rarity among collectors. Its composition is kind of a “contradiction” with the gently circular shaped tachometer scale drawn on the dial, to totally break the patterns of a watch uniquely characterized by “sharp” details, such as the chronometric buttons, the Roman numerals and, obviously, the case. Usually, ref 3529’s dials are silvered displaying two attractive engine-turned subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30 minutes registers but very few were produced, like the present lot in black making it a representative of this limited family. The case has been realized in pink gold and nicely conserved on whose snap on back are very deep and clear the case number, reference and crown logo engraved. The very rare combination of pink-gold case and black dial further amplify the appeal and collectability of this amazing watch. The present timepiece can be considered an absolute textbook regarding the case design and construction methodology Rolex used for these early, rare square timepieces but few of them were produced in very rare configuration like the present lot, that comes with a striking black background color, the rarest configuration.