Important Collectors Watches, Pocket ...

New York, Dec 11, 2008

LOT 470

Ref. 8753, White Gold Prince Imperial Rolex, "Officially Certified Chronometer" Ref. 8753, case No. 262644. Made circa 1943. Extremely fine and rare 18K white gold, keyless dress pocket watch with diamond index dial and with original white gold chain and 18K white gold Rolex clip.

USD 10,000 - 15,000

EUR 7,800 - 12,000 / CHF 12,000 - 18,000

Sold: USD 12,600

C. Two-body, irregular hexagonal, polished and brushed, pendant ring at top right corner, caseback with dedication inscription. D. Silver, eccentric, applied baguette and square diamond indexes, outer minute divisions, subsidiary seconds dial with applied white gold baton indexes. White gold dauphine hands. M. Cal. 1030, 14.5???, observatory quality, rhodium-plated, fausses cotes decoration, 17 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to six positions, self-compensating blued steel Breguet balance spring, Rolex patented escapement protecting cap, index regulator. Dial, case and movement signed. Dim. 41 x 37 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-6-01

Good

Slightly oxidized

HANDS Original

Notes

Produced in small quantities from the early 1940?s until the 1950?s, the Rolex Imperial was unusual, even by Rolex standards. With a novel case shape, combined with the matching chain and clip (also stamped Rolex), this was an elegant evening dress pocket watch that could be worn for a night out at the theater. A subtle diamond index dial combined with an observatory quality finished movement make the reference 8753 highly desirable, especially in white gold.To the best of our knowledge, fewer than 3 examples have been offered at auction over the past 10 years.