Important Watches

Panerai

Radiomir ‘Kampfschwimmer’, Reference 3646 ‘Type D’ | A stainless steel wristwatch, Circa 1943

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

240,000 - 450,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Panerai

Radiomir ‘Kampfschwimmer’, Reference 3646 ‘Type D’

A stainless steel wristwatch, Circa 1943

Dial: black

Calibre: cal. 618 mechanical, 17 jewels

Case: stainless steel, screw down case back

Case number: 1’010’160

Closure: brown unsigned leather strap and gilt metal buckle

Size: 47 mm diameter

Signed: case and movement signed Rolex

Accessories: none

Today, Panerai’s signature oversized cases and distinct aesthetic are beloved worldwide as a design icon. However, they were never initially conceived as such. In the inter-war period of the twentieth century, the Panerai family operated a watch retail store in Florence, Italy. While they maintained a staff of watchmakers in their boutique, the idea of producing a watch was not necessarily on their radar.

When the second world war erupted, they pivoted to creating instruments for the Italian navy, eventually producing a diver’s timepiece with the expertise and help of their friends at Rolex, who made a name for themselves producing Oyster waterproof cases. Thus the Panerai blueprint was born.

The present Radiomir features the ‘Type D’ anonymous dial, nicknamed the Kampfschwimmer after the Nazi German regiment they were distributed to. Guido Panerai stopped stamping his name on dials after the German occupation of Italy as he did not wish for his instruments to be associated with his oppressors. Today, this watch stands as a genuine historical relic, presented in remarkable condition with a very well preserved ‘Type D’ dial and original Brevet crown.

沛納海 Radiomir ‘Kampfschwimmer’ 型號3646 ‘Type D’

精鋼腕錶，約1943年製

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"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."