Rolex. A fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and hooded flexible lugs

Reference 2918 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. Made as of the mid-1930s and produced in very small series only, these unusual creations probably never went above the prototype stage, most certainly due to the uncertain commercial success of the revolutionary design.

The present watch stands out by its excellent overall condition, particularly the crispness of the engraved reference and serial numbers to the snap on back and the sharp edges of bezel and lugs, and the original black dial.

An example of a reference 2918 in steel with champagne dial is illustrated in 1908 - 2008 100 Years of Rolex by Franca and Guido Mondani, p. 22.