Lot 351

Rolex "Oyster Chronograph Antimagnetic", Case No. 480915, Ref. 4500, Cal. Val 22, 36 mm, circa 1946
A gentleman's exquisite wristwatch with chronograph, 30 min. counter and tachy scale - this is an extremely rare variant: black dial and yellow gold case
Case: 18k gold, domed glass, screw back ref. 4500, screwed Rolex "Oyster Plus" winding crown, round non-screwed down push chronograph buttons, 18k Rolex gold buckle. Dial: black. Movm.: 2/3 plate movement, Glucydur screw balance.
Reference 4500, which was first produced in the mid-1940s, is largely regarded as the first Oyster Chronograph Rolex ever produced. Thus pieces like the one at hand are extremely rare and sought after. The reference was produced in stainless steel, steel / gold, 18K yellow gold and 18K pink gold.
Due to its unique combination of style elements this piece is surely the most coveted version of the model: there are the wonderful patination of the black dial, the finely accentuated scales and the original gold leaf hands and finally the facetted luminous indexes. The overall condition of the watch and its beauty are certainly excellent.