156 Rolex A very rare and unusual Rolex Prince Brancard reference 971 in stainless steel and 14k yellow gold custom made for Eaton "1/4 Century Club", for the 25th anniversary of the Quart

Estimate: €8,000 –⁠ 15,000

Model: Prince Brancard
Material: 14k yellow gold and white gold
Reference N°: 971
Case N°: 1472
Caliber: 7 1/2
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dimensions: 23
Signed: Dial, Case and movement

The Prince is probably one of those models that lead the foundations for the ascent of Rolex in watchmaking world. Distinct, refined and elegant this watch is among the most attractive Art Deco wristwatches ever made and one of the symbols of luxury during the Depression-era. Launched in 1928, it has been produced in various versions such as the Classic, the Railway or the Brancard like the present lot offered here. Its special design with a rectangle case and a large dial for the hours and minutes positioned slightly above the seconds was totally unusual for the time and very conformable for checking the heartbeat of the patients, that was the reason which gave this model the nickname of “doctor’s watch”. The watch offered her is a reference 971 with a stainless steel and yellow-gold case reporting on the snap on case back the engraving Presented to T.D. Switzer to mark a quarter-century of continuous service with T. Eaton C., Ltd., 1907–1932. This watch was in fact a special request from Eaton & Co and the dials presents the signature Eaton instead of the classic Rolex. The silver quadrant has a wonderful two-tone structure with the very rare champlevé letters “1/4 Century Club” instead of numerals and blued steel feuille hands. Cased in several versions comprising 9K, 14K and 18K yellow, white or pink gold, platinum, silver, stainless steel or combinations the Prince like this watch enjoys absolutely great popularity amongst collectors.