Only Online Auction
Geneva, Apr 07, 2021
LOT 129
Rolex
Ref. 2508, chronograph, minute counter; stainless steel
CHF 13,000 - 26,000
EUR 12,000 - 24,000 / USD 14,400 - 28,700 / HKD 112,000 - 224,000
Stainless steel, manual-winding, tonneau-shaped, anti-magnetic, gentleman’s wristwatch, snap-on case-back, round flat bezel, silver colour dial with subsidiary seconds at 9 and two horological complications:
· 1/5 second chronograph (activated by the two rectangular-shaped push-pieces) with telemeter scale graduated for one kilometre
· Half-instantaneous 30-minute counter (subsidiary dial at 3 o’clock)
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AAA |
Excellent |
Case: 3-8 |
Good Slightly scratched |
Movement: 3* |
Good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 3-6-01 |
Good Slightly oxidized HANDS Original |
Brand Rolex, Geneva
Reference 2508
Year circa 1942
Case No. 041 338
Material stainless steel
Bracelet brown leather strap
Buckle stainless steel buckle
Diameter 35.2 mm. (bezel)
Caliber 14’’’ (based on Valjoux by Reymond Frères, Les Bioux, Vallée de Joux)
Height 41.2 mm.
Width 35.2 mm.
Signature dial, case and movement
Notes
Rolex, Ref. 2508 Antimagnetic (or Anti-Magnetique)
The reference 2508 was first produced in the mid 1930’s, in 18K yellow or pink gold and in stainless steel non-waterproof cases, with olive-shaped push-buttons (oval pushers), a 14’’’ movement and a diameter of 38 mm. (37.2 mm. to).
After that, it was made with rectangular push-buttons (square pushers), a 13’’’ movement and a 2 mm. smaller case of 36 mm. (35.2 mm. to).
Early 2508’s had the serial numbers punched on the case-back, whereas the last generation had the 6 digits number finely engraved at the edge of the back.
This is the first Rolex chronograph wristwatch to feature two registers on the dial and two pushers in the case.
The sporty and large case is very masculine, and is considered one of the most attractive case designs by any brand of this era. At the time of production, the relatively large case size was incredibly unusual for the period. This reference is a favourite amongst collectors due to its oversized case, flat bezel, and classic no frills design, that is more in-line with those of two other historical Genevan brands: Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin.
Bibliography
· Patrizzi, Osvaldo, Collecting Rolex Wristwatches, Guido Mondani Editore, Genova, 2001, pp. 390, 392-394 and 480.
CONDITIONS AND INFORMATION FOR BUYERS
The purchase price payable by a buyer will be the sum of the final bid price plus the buyer’s premium, together with any applicable sales or compensating use tax. In addition to the hammer price, the buyer’s premium is payable as follows: 25% of the hammer price on each lot.Important notice – Special conditions Please look carefully at all the photos as they are an integral part of the description. Any defect not mentioned in the descriptions but visible on the photos will be considered as described and cannot lead to any claim. The dimensions are given as an indication and may slightly differ from the measures mentioned by the manufacturers especially for contemporary watches. The photos are not retouched. Colors may differ from reality. For timepieces, we guarantee neither the functioning nor the precision of the movement, nor the water-resistance of the case. In addition, please note that movements, parts of mechanisms or cases may be incomplete. The lots are sold “as is”, described to the best of our knowledge and cannot be returned. Once the online bid is placed by the bidder, it cannot be cancelled.