161 Rolex Extremely Well Preserved and Very Rare, Antimagnetic Oversized Chronograph Wristwatch in Steel, Tachymeter and Telemeter Scales Dial, Retailed by Cravanzola, Reference 3330

Estimate: €180,000 –⁠ 360,000

Model: Chronograph
Reference: 3330
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1937
Movement: Manual
Case N°: 041581
Dimensions: 37 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

Rolex Reference 3330 is an iconic Antimagnetic chronograph from the late 1930s, often referred to as a “Pre-Oyster” chronograph because it predates the introduction of Rolex’s iconic Oyster case. Measuring a generous 37 mm, the timepiece is considered one of the rarest and largest pre-Oyster Rolex chronographs ever produced by the firm. The reference 3330 was ahead of its time, featuring an innovative design more typical of today’s market. Over the years, it has gained a distinguished position in the world of collectible vintage watches, thanks to its twelve-hour chronograph register—a feature notably absent in Patek Philippe models—its balanced dial configuration, and the inclusion of both a tachymeter and telemeter scale. This particular example of the Reference 3330 is exceptionally desirable due to its outstanding condition and unique characteristics. The stainless steel case is incredibly well preserved, with sharp edges and clear serial numbers on the back. The silvered dial is absolutely impressive, featuring a double scale in black and blue, three subsidiary counters, and the prestigious retailer signature “Cravanzola Roma” at 12 o’clock. Cravanzola, a retailer initially active in Turin in 1850 and later in Rome from 1871, was one of the first to believe in the young Rolex, becoming an official dealer in Italy through a special agreement. This partnership ended in 1997 with the disappearance of the Cravanzola name. The scarcity of Reference 3330, combined with the special signature on the dial and the fact that it represents an early stage in Rolex’s development of chronographs, makes it a prized piece in vintage watch collections.