35 Rolex Extremely Rare and Very Unusual, Rectangular Hooded Lugs Wristwatch in Steel and Pink Gold, With Two-Tone Dial, Reference 2422

Estimate: €7,000 –⁠ 14,000

Model: Rectangular Hooded Lugs
Reference: 2422
Case Material: Stainless Steel and Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1930s
Movement: Manual
Case N°: 16535
Dimensions: 22 × 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement

The watch here presented is one of the very few examples of this reference publicly known. Extremely attractive and of unusually shape for the period, this very specimen is preserved in excellent condition overall. It can be considered without a doubt a true “unicorn”: reference 2422 appears in fact to be one of the most elusive Rolex models ever manufactured and not many other examples have appeared on the market over the last 20 years. Beyond its extreme rarity, reference 2422 impresses with its absolutely stunning looks. It is undeniably decades ahead of its times: the clean, angular and crisp lines of the case are very close to what is seen in timepieces from the 1950s, 60s or even 70s. The unusual hooded lugs are extremely fascinating and keep the geometric style of the watch. Elements of such an unconventional design are incorporated in the dial as well: it is extremely clean and readable, with three bold Arabic numerals. The only two not-edgy pattern breakers are the circular silvered dial and the pink subsidiary dial for constant seconds with engine-turned decoration. Sectoral multi-tone dials, such as the present one, are in effect a governing element of watchmaking design during the Art deco period, an element subtly and elegantly incorporated into this outstanding dial. Preserved in excellent conditions with clean dial, vibrant colors and absolutely sharp edges with deep engravings. It presents hardly any trace of wear, sporting clean and crisp corners which allow the beholder to properly appreciate the groundbreaking design of this masterpiece as it was originally conceived more than eighty years ago.