Rolex Chronograph 3525

Ref. 3525A seductive and rare stainless steel and pink gold chronograph wristwatch with pink champagne dial

Manufacturer: Rolex Year: Circa 1939 Reference No: 3525 Case No: 47'813 Model Name: "Barilotto" Material: Stainless steel and 18k pink gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 13''', 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 35mm Diameter Signed: Case signed Oyster Watch Co., dial and movement signed RolexLaunched in 1939, the ref. 3525 was Rolex’s very first chronograph wristwatch to be housed in an Oyster case defined by water resistant screw down case back as well as screw down winding crown. It was offered in yellow gold, pink gold, stainless steel and steel and gold like the present attractive example which features a steel case and a pink gold bezel and crown. Analysis of publicly known pieces shows that - with the exception of a few outliers - most of the production for the reference is grouped in three "batches", with respectively serial numbers around 40'xxx-50'xxx for the first batch, then in the mid 100'000 for the second, and in the mid-300'000 the last. The present model from 1939 is part of the early examples with the serial number stamped on the case back, whereas later models had the serial numbers engraved between the lugs. The case is in overall very appealing condition with the serial and reference numbers perfectly crisp and legible. Note also the presence of the original 'Brevet' Oyster crown. However, the most enticing element is the striking pink champagne dial which is beautifully framed by the pink gold bezel and further enhanced by the blue hands and tachymeter and telemeter scales. Thanks to its amazingly perfect proportions and balanced dial design, the Rolex reference 3525 is most arguably one of the most elegant chronographs of its time.