$69,000
So-called "Rolex Panerai" Officine Panerai, No. 260519, Ref. 3646, first generation. Made in 1943. Very fine and extremely rare, large, cushionshaped, water-resistant, stainless steel military diver's wristwatch. Signed Rolex, three-body, polished and brushed, screwed-down case back and crown, wire lugs. Black with radium-coated mixed Arabic, Roman, bâton and triangular indexes. Radium-coated blued steel "bâton" hands. Notes For a note about this reference, see lot 109. Anselmo Grimoldi : Has worked in the field of horology for over 50 years with an enormous amount of passion, curiosity and dedication. He has recently launched his own brand of watches and jewellery bearing the name “Grimoldi”. In the early 1980s he was introduced to a former military man Dr. Rossi who told him the story of the unique instrument maker that is The Officine Panerai. This story fascinated him and led to his spending the next 25 years searching for the elusive original models made for the naval commandos of the Italian navy as well as the commandos of other Mediterranean navies. This impressive collection comprises examples of all of the various types made utilizing both Rolex and Angelus movements including the “Egyptian Commando” and the only example of a vintage left handed Panerai. Anselmo Grimoldis belife in this brand lead to him approching 3 admirals when they took control of The Officine Panerai to negotiate the sole distrubution rights for Milan which they granted him. Later wh
Auctioneer:
Antiquorum
Date:
2005-09-28
