GE1304

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Lot 293
  • 293

Panerai

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 CHF
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Description

  • ROLEX MADE FOR OFFICINE PANERAI. A FINE AND RARE LARGE STAINLESS STEEL CUSHION-SHAPED DIVER'S WRISTWATCH WITH EARLY UNSIGNED DIALREF 3646 CASE NO. 260429 RADIOMIR TOGETHER WITH A LATER MILITARY COMPASSCIRCA 1940
  • steel
  • dimensions 47 x 54 mm thickness 16 mm compass diameter 62 mm thickness 22 mm
• cal 618 manual winding nickel lever movement, 17 jewels, signed Rolex • the dial consisting of a superposition of two discs, the lower one coated with luminous substance visible through the cut-out baton and Arabic numerals in the black upper disc, blued steel luminous hands • oversized cushion-shaped case, screw-down case back • case and movement signed Rolex
The compass made in Bakelite material with rotating bezel

Condition

The movement is working at the time of cataloguing however, it would benefit from a complete service. Some inertia-blocks fixed to the rim of the balance are showing some signs of corrosion. Dial in good condition but the hands are showing some small corrosion points. The hands still luminesce slightly. Some scuffs to the glass. This oversized vintage Panerai with its bold and manly look makes it very desirable. The case with light scuffs and dents from wear. Strap is not complete. The compass lacking some liquid. Its back bearing inscription: Armbandkompass Baumuster : AK 39 Werk Nr : 3821887 Anforderz : Fl 23235
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Catalogue Note

In 1935, the Italian Navy ordered from Panerai a water and pressure resistant watch with dial which was visible by night and in deep water for their secret unit the "10a Flottiglia MAS" (10th MAS Fleet). The manufacturer came up with a prototype called a Radiomir. This name comes from the luminescent varnish used for the indexes, made with zinc sulphide, mesothelium and radium bromide patented by Guido Panerai in 1915.
The first Radiomir series was launched around 1938 with a cushion form metal case of 47mm width, solid lugs and a dial with luminescent baton and Arabic numerals. The movement was a Rolex calibre 618. The production of Ref. 3646 continued until the early 1950s, when it was replaced by Ref. 6152.
This rare and desirable timepiece belonged to the consignors father who was a Royal Marine. He was stationed at the Kiel Naval Base in Germany as the second world war drew to its close and this is where his son believes the watch came into his possession.