262 Rolex Historically Important and Fine, Barilotto Oyster, Antimagnetic Chronograph Wristwatch in Gold, With Multiscale Dial, Radium Hands and Indexes, Reference 3525

Estimate: €50,000 –⁠ 100,000

Model: Barilotto
Reference: 3525
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1938
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 13″ VZ
Case N°: 47256
Dimensions: 35 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case

Rolex reference 3525 is also known as the “POW” or prisoner of war watch since it was the model supplied directly by Hans Wilsdorf to capture Western Allied airmen trapped in German camps, including the famous Stalag Luft III which has been the scenario of the movie “The Great Escape” with Steve McQueen. Moreover this watch is really appreciated for its rarity and unusual structure of the case composed of a single solid piece of metal, also affectionately named “Barilotto” from Italian collectors given the shape of the case which reminds a little barrel. Production of reference 3525 was launched in 1939 and discontinued in 1945, this model was made in stainless steel, yellow and pink gold as well as combined steel and gold (be it yellow or pink). The astounding crisp and original yellow-gold case and the sharp edges of the lugs render this watch one of the nicest examples of this reference with a very nice oxidation which is coming to appear on the pushers at two o’clock. On the case back is still crisp and clearly visible in the engraved serial number. The multiscale structure with both tachymeter and telemeter scales, the very rare luminous Arabic and baton numbers such as the hands add more attraction to this watch.