ROLEX

• Valjoux VZ nickel lever movement, bi-metallic compensation balance, 17 jewels, precision regulator • aged silvered dial, Arabic and aviator-style sector numerals, blued steel feuille hands, two small engine-turned subsidiary dials indicating constant seconds and 30-minute register, outer pulsations track • 18k gold tonneau case, two lozenge-shaped chronograph pushers to the band, downturned lugs with solid strap bars, snap back • case, dial and movement signed 

The movement is not running and will need to be serviced and overhauled. The movement is stamped 440. The dial is very dirty and aged and some of the printing has come off or is rather hard to read. There is significant spotting throughout. The case shows general wear and has surface scuffs throughout. It has been generally polished. The bezel has possibly been replaced at some point as it does not appear to match the images of this model found in books. The upper chronograph button appears slightly pink. The outside of the back is stamped 2811 and 30546.
"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."

This model, Ref. 2811, was first launched around 1930. Its simple design competed very well with similar chronographs from other firms, such as Patek Philippe and Longines. By the 1940s, the design would change and the lozenge pushers would be replaced with rectangular ones.

Examples such as the present, with pulsations scales, are very unusual.

For a similar example, see Gobbi, P. I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, pp. 94-97.