Important Collectors Watches, Pocket ...

New York, Dec 11, 2008

LOT 52

Ref. 971 Prince Brancard ? Two-Color, Rolex ?Prince,? Ref. 971. Made circa 1939. Fine and rare, rectangular curved, flared, 14K gold and stainless steel wristwatch.

USD 8,000 - 10,000

EUR 6,200 - 7,800 / CHF 9,500 - 12,000

Sold: USD 10,800

C. Three-body, 14K gold reverse and upper center with faceted edges, flared steel sides with rounded lugs, straight edge crystal. D. Silvered with luminescent Arabic numerals, inner minute track, large subsidiary seconds dial. Blued luminescent skeleton hands. M. 7 1/2???, ?Extra Prima?, rhodium-plated, 15 jewels, lateral lever escapement, timed in 6 positions, Rolex overcoil balance spring, index regulator. Dial, case and movement signed. Dim. 26 x 43 mm. Thickness 9 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 2

Very good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-7-01

Good

Oxidized

HANDS Original

Notes

Prince Brancard The Prince Brancard is undoubtedly the most elegant wristwatch among the form watches: rectangular, flared and slightly curved to fit the wrist. The first Prince Brancard models - Ref. 971, 971A, 971 U and 1490 - were produced from 1929 to 1935; the platinum model is undoubtly the most sought-after Prince among collectors. It is interesting to note that the sale price of this watch was 65 £ in 1929.