Rolex Chronograph 3525

Ref. 3525A rare and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial, luminous hands and hour markers

Manufacturer: Rolex Year: 1942 Reference No: 3525 Case No: 150'742 Model Name: Oyster Chronograph “Bariletto” Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Mechanical, 13’’’, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex buckle Dimensions: 35mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Literature: Another similar example of a reference 3525 is illustrated in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, page 84.Introduced to the market in 1938, reference 3525 was available in pink gold, yellow gold, stainless steel or steel and gold combinations. An important breakthrough model for the firm, the reference displays one of Rolex’s most important technological advancements. It was the very first chronograph wristwatch to be housed in an Oyster case, and equipped with a water resistant screw down case back along with screw down crown. The present example is a first generation example, as the case number and reference number are legible on the case back. Later examples would feature the case number in between the lugs. Featuring an attractive black glossy dial, the watch has been preserved in excellent condition with sharp finishes to the case, and crisp serial number and reference number on the case back, which would have disappeared with even light polishing. All edges are sharp to the touch. To add another element of delight, the watch furthermore retains its original “Patent Oyster” crown. This watch most interestingly displays very similar specs to the reference 3525 "Prisoner of War" watches that Rolex supplied to detained British army officers in WWII German war camps. These watches were often fitted with a black dial, gold graphics and luminous hands. The gold graphics are still crisp and legible, complementing the numerals well and contrasting with the black glossy dial.