Rolex - The Geneva Watch Auction: SEVEN Geneva Saturday, May 12, 2018 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Rolex
    Year: Circa 1947
    Reference No: 4467
    Movement No: G53'463
    Case No: 518'506
    Model Name: Datejust "Ovettone"
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. A295, 18 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold bracelet, max length 195mm
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold folding clasp
    Dimensions: 36mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Rolex presentation box.
    Literature: A similar example is illustrated in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, p. 160.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1945, Rolex unveiled its very first automatic chronometer wristwatch that indicated the date on an aperture on the dial. Made in celebration of the brand’s 40th anniversary, the model would evolve into one of Rolex’s most iconic models of all time. This watch is today nicknamed “Ovettone” due to its likeness to an egg.

    Over time, reference 4467 has become a cult favorite among collectors, representing an inedible landmark moment within Rolex’s history.

    This particular example has been preserved in excellent condition, featuring an eggshell-colored dial displaying an even and beautiful patina. It also features its original Rolex Oyster crown with a brevet cross in the center. Furthermore, the watch retains its roulette red and black date wheel and thin reeded bezel. It would only be later that Rolex produced the fluted bezel that is associated with today's modern Datejust.

  • Artist Biography

    Rolex

    Swiss • 1905

    Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.

    One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.

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Ref. 4467
An attractive and early yellow gold wristwatch with center seconds, black and red roulette date wheel and bracelet

Circa 1947
36mm Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF15,000 - 30,000 
€12,900-25,700
$15,900-31,800

Sold for CHF33,750

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+41 22 317 81 81
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: SEVEN

Geneva Auction 12-13 May 2018