Rolex

• Valjoux 22 manual winding nickel lever movement, 17 jewels • silvered dial, black painted Arabic numerals, later luminescent blued steel hands, engine turned subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30 minute register, outer minute and 1/5 second divisions, outermost tachometer scale calibrated to 750 miles • stainless steel case, pointed down turned lugs, rectangular chronograph pushers, solid snap on case back • case, dial, and movement signed 

The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. Case in overall very good vintage condition with wear, scuffing, and markings consistent with age and use. Case lugs, crown, and pushers with some light oxidation. Case back with light wear and very light surface markings. Case number inscribed to the case back "047546." Dial in overall excellent vintage condition with very light surface markings and debris. Hands are later replaced. Some extremely small inconsistencies to the Arabic indexes likely from pigmentation loss. Movement in overall fair condition with signs of oxidation and debris. The piece is recommended to have service prior to use.
"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."

Accompanied by a Rolex pouch.

The reference 3997 is exceptionally rare and new to the collector's market. With an oversized case and angular lugs, the piece feels modern and timeless. The present lot is further accentuated by its original and beautifully preserved dial with Arabic numerals and tachometer scale.