202 Rolex Extremely Fine, Attractive and Striking, “Piccolino”, Antimagnetic Chronograph Wristwatch in Pink Gold, Black Gilt Tachymeter Scale Dial

Estimate: €15,000 –⁠ 30,000

A 20% import VAT is due on the final price including premium, only if it is delivered within the EU.

Model: Piccolino
Reference: 3055
Case Material: Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1951
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 10
Case N°: 789909
Dimensions: 30 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

The Rolex reference 3055, produced initially in the 1930s and reintroduced in the 1950s, is a remarkable piece, notable for its entirely novel case design compared to earlier models. Despite its modest 30 mm size, it boasts a chronograph function, making it an exceptionally unique and innovative timepiece. The reference 3055 debuted in the 1930s with olive-shaped pushers and saw a revival in the 1950s with an updated dial and rectangular push pieces, similar to the present example. Known affectionately as the “Piccolino” by Italian collectors, it was advertised at the time as the smallest chronograph in the world. It was available in stainless steel for 1 025 Italian Lire, while around 200 examples were produced in yellow gold. The rarest version, crafted in pink gold, was reportedly limited to only 20 pieces and sold for 2 000 Italian Lire. The example offered here is part of this rarest batch, crafted in precious pink gold and remarkably preserved despite its over 70-year history. The three-body case, with its snap-on case back, concave fluted lugs, and stepped bezel, exhibits excellent preservation. The black gilt dial, adorned with applied pink gold baton and dot numerals, features subsidiary seconds at 9 o’clock and a half-instantaneous 30-minute recorder with a subsidiary dial at 3 o’clock. The rarity, exceptional condition, and distinctive features make this lot a unique and compelling opportunity for collectors of vintage chronographs.