Online Catalogue
11 March 2026 - Basel Watch Auction
The Rolex Prince represents one of the most distinctive and historically significant chapters in Rolex’s early heritage, embodying the Art Deco movement’s geometric elegance and technical precision. Introduced in 1928, the Prince was revolutionary for its time with its distinctive rectangular case and unique dual-dial configuration. The watch featured two separate subdials – one for hours and minutes, another for running seconds – creating a striking asymmetrical composition that perfectly captured the Art Deco aesthetic of the era. What makes the Prince particularly remarkable is its technical achievement. These timepieces were equipped with chronometer-certified movements, a significant accomplishment for wristwatch movements in the 1920s and 1930s. The chronometer certification represented exceptional precision and reliability, establishing Rolex’s reputation for technical excellence that continues today. The Prince’s design philosophy reflected the era’s fascination with geometric forms and functional beauty. The elongated rectangular case, often crafted in precious metals, created an elegant silhouette that was both modern and sophisticated. The dual-dial layout wasn’t merely aesthetic – it enhanced legibility and represented a thoughtful approach to horological design. This model demonstrates how certain timepieces become cultural artifacts, capturing the spirit of their era while advancing horological technique. The Prince influenced rectangular watch design for decades and remains highly sought after by collectors who appreciate both its historical significance and its distinctive aesthetic.
Online Catalogue 11 March 2026 - Basel Watch Auction Lot 419
Rolex
No. 02899, circa 1932
A silver manual winding Art Deco
wristwatch with subsidiary seconds
Case: rectangular curved, snap-on case
back, numbered and signed
Dial: silvered, two-tone, Arabic
numerals for the hour and minutes
subsidiary dial, outer minute track,
subsidiary seconds, signed
Movement: manual winding, chronometer
certified, signed
Buckle/Clasp: steel buckle signed with
the Rolex logo
Dimensions: 22 × 42 mm
Weight: 37,6 g
Accessories: original Rolex
presentation box, Beyer certificate
signed by René Beyer, official bulletin
for the rating of watches movement at
the Contrôle Officiel de la Marche des
Montres, Bienne, Suisse dated
12.11.1930.
CHF 8'000 – 12'000
The Rolex Prince represents one of the most distinctive and historically significant chapters in Rolex’s early heritage, embodying the Art Deco movement’s geometric elegance and technical precision. Introduced in 1928, the Prince was revolutionary for its time with its distinctive rectangular case and unique dual-dial configuration. The watch featured two separate subdials – one for hours and minutes, another for running seconds – creating a striking asymmetrical composition that perfectly captured the Art Deco aesthetic of the era. What makes the Prince particularly remarkable is its technical achievement. These timepieces were equipped with chronometer-certified movements, a significant accomplishment for wristwatch movements in the 1920s and 1930s. The chronometer certification represented exceptional precision and reliability, establishing Rolex’s reputation for technical excellence that continues today. The Prince’s design philosophy reflected the era’s fascination with geometric forms and functional beauty. The elongated rectangular case, often crafted in precious metals, created an elegant silhouette that was both modern and sophisticated. The dual-dial layout wasn’t merely aesthetic – it enhanced legibility and represented a thoughtful approach to horological design. This model demonstrates how certain timepieces become cultural artifacts, capturing the spirit of their era while advancing horological technique. The Prince influenced rectangular watch design for decades and remains highly sought after by collectors who appreciate both its historical significance and its distinctive aesthetic.