Rolex. A fine, rare and unusual stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and stepped hooded lugs

Reference 2917 is part of a small series of "non-oyster" chronographs given reference numbers 2916, 2917, 2918, 2919, 2920 and 2937, distinguished by their avant-garde case shapes, all with oval chronograph buttons. Launched in the mid-1930s and made in very small series only, these unusual creations probably never went above the experimental stage, most certainly due to the uncertain commercial success of the revolutionary design.

The present watch stands out by its appealing case condition, particularly the crispness of the engraved Rolex crown, reference and serial numbers to the snap on back and the sharp edges of bezel and hooded lugs.

An example of a reference 2917 in steel with black dial, possibly the present watch, is illustrated in 1908 - 2008 100 Years of Rolex by Franca and Guido Mondani, p. 20.