Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Hong Kong, Jun 01, 2024

LOT 103

ROLEX, REF. 2021, SINGLE BUTTON CHRONOGRAPH, ENAMEL DIAL, 18K YELLOW GOLD

HKD 200,000 - 300,000

EUR 23,800 - 35,700 / CHF 23,200 - 34,800 / USD 25,600 - 38,400

Sold: HKD 237,500

A fine and very rare, oversize, 18K yellow gold single button chronograph with white enamel dial and hinged caseback.


Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 2-8

Very good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 2-01

Very good

HANDS Original

Brand Rolex

Model single button chronograph

Reference 2021

Year circa 1930s

Case No. 13368

Bracelet leather strap with 18K yellow gold Rolex buckle

Diameter 40mm.

Caliber 16½’’, 17 Jewels

Weight 51gr. (approx.)

Signature dial, case and movement

Biography

The Rolex Ref. 2021, produced in the 1930s, stands as one of the earliest chronograph models ever crafted by Rolex. It embodies the technical and aesthetic hallmarks of its time, featuring an enamel dial, a hinged case back, and a distinctive olive-shaped single-button chronograph. This particular piece made in circa 1930s, boasts an oversized 40mm round case crafted in 18K yellow gold. It is paired with an eye-catching white enamel dial adorned with painted Arabic numerals and multi-scale indications, such as a red telemeter and a spiral tachymeter, which enhance its vintage allure.

Now surpassing 90 years, the watch remains in very good condition. The 18K yellow gold shows signs of wear and aging, a testament to its long and storied past. Remarkably, the white enamel dial is in perfect condition and the movement is clean and in working condition.

For both the seasoned collector and the discerning enthusiast, the Rolex Ref. 2021 enamel single-button chronograph is a piece of horological history and a testament to the craftsmanship of an earlier era.