The world of vintage watches is a realm of fascinating stories, rare discoveries, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Within this world, certain timepieces stand out, achieving iconic status due to their rarity, historical significance, and sheer horological prowess. One such watch, a testament to Rolex's early mastery of complicated movements, is the 1942 Rolex Antimagnetique Split-Seconds Chronograph, specifically the reference 4113 in stainless steel. This exceptional piece, with its 44mm case, represents a pinnacle of vintage Rolex collecting and holds a unique place in horological history.
The sale of a particular example of this reference on May 16, 2011, at Christie's Auction House in Geneva, cemented its legendary status. This auction established a then-record price for a Rolex wristwatch, highlighting the intense demand and collector interest surrounding this specific model. While the exact hammer price remains a point of discussion among enthusiasts (due to the private nature of some high-end auction sales), the fact that it set a record speaks volumes about the watch's desirability. The event propelled the 1942 Rolex Antimagnetique Split-Seconds Chronograph into the stratosphere of collectible watches, attracting the attention of seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.
Rolex Split-Seconds Chronograph: A Legacy of Precision
Before delving deeper into the specifics of the reference 4113, it's crucial to understand the significance of the Rolex split-seconds chronograph within the broader context of the brand's history. Rolex, renowned for its robust Oyster case and precise movements, ventured into the realm of complicated watches relatively early in its development. The split-seconds chronograph, a complication allowing the user to time two events simultaneously, represents a significant feat of horological engineering. The precise coordination of the two chronograph hands, one measuring elapsed time and the other allowing for the measurement of an intermediate time, demands intricate design and flawless execution. The creation of a reliable and accurate split-seconds chronograph in the 1940s was a testament to Rolex's growing technical capabilities and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.
The production of split-seconds chronographs by Rolex during this period was relatively limited, contributing significantly to the rarity of surviving examples today. This scarcity, combined with the inherent desirability of a finely crafted chronograph, fuels the high demand and collectible nature of these watches. The reference 4113, with its distinctive features and substantial size for the era, further enhances its allure within the already exclusive world of Rolex split-seconds chronographs.
Rolex Stainless Steel Split-Seconds: A Material Choice
The use of stainless steel in the reference 4113 is another noteworthy aspect. While precious metals like gold were common in high-end watches of the time, the choice of stainless steel for this particular model suggests a practical approach, perhaps reflecting the post-war period and a shift towards more durable and versatile materials. Stainless steel offered superior resistance to corrosion and wear, making it a suitable choice for a watch intended for daily use, even in demanding environments. This combination of a robust material and a complex complication makes the stainless steel reference 4113 a truly unique and appealing timepiece.
The 44mm case size, also notable for the time, reflects a departure from the smaller watch sizes prevalent in earlier decades. This larger case provided more space for the intricate split-seconds movement, while also offering improved legibility of the dial. The larger size, while perhaps unconventional for some collectors accustomed to more diminutive vintage pieces, adds to the watch's distinct character and contributes to its overall presence on the wrist.
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