Rolex Chronograph 2508

Ref. 2508A rare and attractive yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with multi-scale dial and "olive" pushers, retailed by Cravanzola Roma

Manufacturer: Rolex Year: Circa 1936 Reference No: 2508 Case No: 25'643 Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 14''', 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Gold plated Rolex buckle Dimensions: 36mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by a copy of I Chronografi Rolex La Legganda by Pucci Papaleo and a letter dated 16 March 2002 confirming the present watch is illustrated in I Chronografi Rolex La Legganda, pages 82-83. Literature: The present watch is proudly displayed in I Cronografi Rolex La Legganda by Pucci Papaleo, page 82 and 83.First launched in the mid 1930s, reference 2508 was Rolex's very first wristwatch to feature two chronograph registers, as well as two buttons to operate the mechanism. The reference can generally be divided into two series. While those from the first generation feature 'olive' pushers and a larger case size, second generation examples feature flat pushers and a relatively smaller case diameter. At the time of production, the relatively large case size was incredibly unusual for the period. Yet, the model exudes a modern appearance today. This watch is an excellent example of a first generation reference 2508. Fitted with elegant "olive" pushers, it most notably features both telemeter and tachymeter scales on the dial. Reference 2508 typically displays a simple dial layout. To find one, such as the present example, with a multi-scale design is very rare. At further glance, the retailer's signature is also proudly displayed underneath the center of the dial, denoting the watch was retailed at Cravanzola in Roma, Italy. This small detail adds another element of delight. One should also marvel at the case number and reference number, which are sharp, crisp and legible on the case back. Early examples, like the present watch, had the serial number punched on the case back. In comparison, later generations featured the case number finely engraved on the edge of the case back. Proudly displayed in literature, this watch fulfills the requirements of any stringent collector and scholar.