Important Modern and Vintage Timepieces

New York, Apr 10, 2013

LOT 300

CHARLIE CHAPLIN?S LEFT HANDED ROLEX WRISTWATCH STEEL & ENAMEL Rolex Oyster, Retailed by Asprey, London, case No. 340362, Ref. 4453. Made circa 1945. Fine and extremely rare, center seconds, water-resistant, stainless steel left-handed wristwatch. Accompanied by 4 photos and various authenticating correspondence.

USD 8,000 - 12,000

HKD 62,000 - 93,000 / CHF 7,500 - 11,400

Sold: USD 51,250

C. Two-body, polished and brushed, screw-down case back and crown, concave lugs. D. White enamel with painted radial Arabic numerals, outer 1/5th seconds track with 5-seconds Arabic markers. Blued steel spade hands. M. Cal. 10 1/2???, rhodium-plated,17 jewels, straight-line lever escapement, monometallic balance, flat balance spring, index regulator. Dial, case and movement signed. DIAM. 31 mm. THICKNESS 12 mm.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 2-8

Very good

Slightly scratched
Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 2-01

Very good

HANDS Original

Notes

Charlie Chaplin (April 16th, 1889 - December 25th, 1977) was a groundbreaking actor, director, producer, writer and editor of many of the most iconic films of the first half of the 20th Century. His cinematic alter-ego, the Tramp, became one of the most recognizable characters in all of film history. Chaplin continues to be a massive influence on the film industry and pop culture at large. Charlie?s watch is not only one of the most important pop memorabilia timepieces to come to auction, but it is also an extremely rare and important Rolex in its own right. The watch features a retailer signature by Asprey on the pristine enamel dial and is one of the few left-handed examples produced by Rolex during this era.