CENTREGRAPH Ref. 3346

Introduced around the mid 1930s, Ref. 3346 (also known as ‘Centregraph’) is an exceptionally rare Rolex model; fewer than 50 examples are believed to have been produced. With a fly-back chronograph, the movement incorporates a mechanism – via a pusher in the case side – to reset the central seconds hand, at which point counting recommences.

Geneva, 10 November, 2015

Rare yellow-gold chronograph wristwatch with tachymeter

Ref. 2508

Case 46876

Chronograph c.1947

CHF 10,000 – 12,000

US$ 10,300 – 12,300

SOLD CHF 62,500

Geneva, 12 November, 2019

Stainless-steel chronograph wristwatch

Ref. 2508

Case 037’620

Chronograph c.1937

CHF 100,000 – 200,000

US$ 101,000 – 202,000

NOT SOLD

CHRONOGRAPH Ref. 2508

Rolex first introduced Ref. 2508 in the mid-1930s, representing the very beginning of their chronograph lineage. This reference was the first to feature two pushers to operate the chronograph and the two subsidiary dials, one of which displays the running seconds and the other features a 30-minute register. Production continued into the late 1940s.

The first Daytona – Ref. 6239 – was introduced in the early 1960s; it was to set the standards for Rolex chronographs for nearly 25 years. This watch was made to be the most reliable, precise and easy to read.

The movement, based on the Valjoux 72, was gradually upgraded to achieve the ultimate precision. The dial was produced with contrasting subsidiary counters to facilitate easy and accurate reading. For the same reason, the tachymeter scale was moved from the dial to the bezel. The watch also featured proven elements, such as the Oyster bracelet and the screw-down crown and case back. The result was a robust yet elegant sports tool watch.

It is, today, regarded as the most iconic and collectible wristwatch ever produced.

The vintage Daytona world is vast and certain references and characteristics are particularly sought-after. The reference 6239 is perhaps the most renowned.

The watch shown opposite is equipped with its original three-colour ‘Paul