First introduced in 1939, the reference 3525 was Rolex’s very first chronograph wristwatch to be housed in an Oyster case defined by water-resistant screw down caseback as well as screw down winding crown. Analysis of publicly known pieces shows that - with the exception of a few outliers - most of the production for the reference is grouped in three "batches", with respectively serial numbers around 40'xxx-51'xxx for the first batch, then in the mid 100'000 for the second, and in the mid-300'000 the last. The case number 45'952 thus classifies the present piece as one belonging to the first batch, and furthermore denotes it is quite an early example, most likely made in the very first year of production of the model.

Early examples such as the present watch feature defining characteristics, such as the case number engraved on the outside caseback. Another feature of early examples is the "Rolex Oyster" designation featuring a curved rather than straight design. The watch is preserved in impressive condition. The star of the show is undoubtedly the dial, which is not a stretch to define as one of the most charming and best preserved examples to ever be seen on this model. Obviously absolutely devoid of any intervention, the salmon color of the surface is as strong and even as when the watch was produced, and the graphics are preserved.

A further glance will reveal the final surprise of this timepiece: the retailer's signature, denoting the watch was sold by Cravanzola in Roma, Italy which was a Rolex retailer since 1927. This small detail adds a further element of delight not only because of the added rarity of this being a double signed timepiece, but also because Cravanzola is arguably one of the rarest retailer's signatures that can be found on a Rolex. Very few other examples are known, interestingly all dating to indicatively the first half of the past century.