Rolex

• manual wind movement, 17 jewels • aged silvered dial, applied gilt Roman numerals and square indexes, two engine-turned subsidiary dials indicating 30-minute register and constant seconds, outer tachometer scale • two round chronograph pushers to the band, screw-down crown and screw back • case, dial and movement signed • 18k yellow gold Rolex Jubilee bracelet with deployant clasp

The movement is running and chronograph functions, however it might require service soon. The dial is badly discolored to the edges and moisture has gotten in and damaged some of the finish and the printing. This is particularly visible on the lower half of the dial. It does look original, despite the poor condition. There are some spots throughout otherwise. The case shows general wear and surface scratches. The outside of the back appears to have been polished at some point. The numbers between the lugs are very rubbed and hard to read, but appear to be 535650. There is no reference number to the 12 o'clock end. Inside the back is stamped 4500. The bracelet is very stretched and should be repaired before use. It is stamped 4 50.
"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 4500, was one of the first Oyster chronograph watches made by Rolex with a screw back and round pushers. It was made in the 1940s for only a short period of time and was one of the last chronographs Rolex made featuring two subsidiary dials rather than three.

For similar examples of this model, see Patrizzi, O., Rolex: Collecting Modern and Vintage Wristwatches, Vol. 1, p. 116, as well as Papaleo, P. & Gobbi, P, I Cronografi Rolex: La Leggenda, pp. 220-221.