Dial: glossy black gilt Caliber: manual winding movement, 17 jewelsCase: stainless steel, solid screw down case backCase number: 186144 Closure: stainless steel Rolex rivet braceletSize: diameter 35 mm, bracelet circumference approximately 180 mmSigned: case, dial and movement

CASE Case with previous professional polishing. Some pitting to the lug bands where lug holes meet the edge of the case. Lugs remain even. Crown signed "Patented Oyster." Case back numbered "3525 186144" and is clear and legible. Case back with light surface scuffing and scratches. Bracelet with equivalent polishing. bracelet stamped 1-65 DIAL Dial and hands relumed. Some losses and discrepancy to the lume plots. Hour hand with a small round loss in the lume material. Some dust and debris. Black glossy dial remains attractive and even overall. MOVEMENT Chronograph function operating. The movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The Rolex ref 3525 is rarely seen in the market today but represents an early and historically important model from the manufacturer. Produced for only about six years from 1939-1945, Ref. 3525 is the first Rolex chronograph fitted in a water resistant Oyster case and is the model Hans Wildorf sent to English officers who were imprisoned during WWII. The model was produced in stainless steel, pink and yellow gold or two toned steel and gold. 
Various versions of reference 3525 are described and illustrated in Goldberger J., 100 Superlative Rolex Watches, pp. 96-107