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Lot Essay
The watch on offer here is a very fine example of the rare Rolex reference 3525. Known among Italian collectors as "barilotto" or "keg" due to its shape, it is equally referred to as "monoblocco" as its case has been forged in one piece. Adorned with an attractive black dial, the present watch delights by its nicely defined outlines and well-preserved back with sharp milling and crisp case number. It is interesting to note that there are three stars that have been stamped just above the case number, the meaning of which is still unclear. Other Rolex watches are known to carry one or more stars in place of the reference number.
Production of reference 3525 was launched in 1939. The model was made in stainless steel, yellow and pink gold as well as combined steel and gold (be it yellow or pink). Some examples of this reference were supplied by Rolex to British Officers who were prisoners of war, or POWs, in German war camps during the Second World War, a fact that makes this reference infamous.
Different versions in regard to case material and dial layout are illustrated in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, pp. 96-107, and in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 162-192.
Production of reference 3525 was launched in 1939. The model was made in stainless steel, yellow and pink gold as well as combined steel and gold (be it yellow or pink). Some examples of this reference were supplied by Rolex to British Officers who were prisoners of war, or POWs, in German war camps during the Second World War, a fact that makes this reference infamous.
Different versions in regard to case material and dial layout are illustrated in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, pp. 96-107, and in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 162-192.