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Lot 83
ROLEX, REF. 6232 OYSTER CHRONOGRAPH ANTIMAGNETIC, A RARE PINK GOLD MANUAL-WINDING CHRONOGRAPH
CASE NUMBER: 394'882
Closed27 October 2021
Price Realised
USD 112,500
More Information
Specialist note
The present watch is a spectacular specimen from the exceptionally rare reference 6232 series exclusively cased in pink gold. Doubtlessly one of Rolex's rarest chronograph models, it is believed to have been made in an exceedingly small series of only 12, destined for the French market.
Examples of this milestone model to appear in public are per definition superbly rare, and particularly when preserved in such wonderful, original condition. In fact, the present Ref. 6232 stands out by its beautiful, original silvered sunburst dial, enhanced by the outer blue telemetre scale, showing a charismatic uniform champagne-coloured patina which has formed naturally over the years. The varnish, a layer of clear lacquer applied to the dial surface to protect it against external influences, is flaking off in places, most probably also due to various atmospheric effects. As one can tell on close examination, the case has hardly been polished and impresses with its full bodied proportions. The crisp gold hallmarks and French assay marks to the caseback and the original satin-finish to the lugs further testify to the fine condition of the case.
Unlike other Rolex chronographs from the same period, the Ref. 6232 has a 30-minute counter, and not the standard 12-hour register. That’s because it is powered by Caliber A23 and not the Valjoux 72 like the other Rolex chronographs from the era.
In over 40 years of international watch auctions, less than five examples of this ultra-rare reference 6232 have appeared, rendering a specimen of such quality as the present watch a must for any discerning collection.
Another example of a reference 6232 is illustrated in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, pp. 118 & 119.
Examples of this milestone model to appear in public are per definition superbly rare, and particularly when preserved in such wonderful, original condition. In fact, the present Ref. 6232 stands out by its beautiful, original silvered sunburst dial, enhanced by the outer blue telemetre scale, showing a charismatic uniform champagne-coloured patina which has formed naturally over the years. The varnish, a layer of clear lacquer applied to the dial surface to protect it against external influences, is flaking off in places, most probably also due to various atmospheric effects. As one can tell on close examination, the case has hardly been polished and impresses with its full bodied proportions. The crisp gold hallmarks and French assay marks to the caseback and the original satin-finish to the lugs further testify to the fine condition of the case.
Unlike other Rolex chronographs from the same period, the Ref. 6232 has a 30-minute counter, and not the standard 12-hour register. That’s because it is powered by Caliber A23 and not the Valjoux 72 like the other Rolex chronographs from the era.
In over 40 years of international watch auctions, less than five examples of this ultra-rare reference 6232 have appeared, rendering a specimen of such quality as the present watch a must for any discerning collection.
Another example of a reference 6232 is illustrated in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, pp. 118 & 119.