ROLEX. A FINE 18K GOLD RECTANGULAR WRISTWATCH WITH TWO-TONE DIAL, RATING CERTIFICATE AND BOX

The present timepiece is a fine example of the Prince reference 971U still retaining its original Rating Certificate and box. It is distinguished by its superior quality movement: at the time, Rolex movement could be of three qualities: Prima, Ultra Prima and Extra Prima. The Ultra and Extra Prima versions allowed for adjustments to position and temperature. The present watch not only features indeed a superior Extra Prima movement, but it is also accompanied by a rating certificate with the designation “Especially Good”, indicating an even higher level of accuracy.

Produced between the late 1920s until the mid 1930s, the Prince models featured, for the period, a very unusual design: a rectangular case with elegantly flared sides and a dial with hours and seconds indication of the same size. Reference numbers 971, 971A and 971U were cased in several versions comprising 9K, 14K and 18K yellow, white or pink gold, platinum, silver, stainless steel or combinations. Often called "Doctor's Watch" because of the large hour and seconds indication on the dial, allowing the easy timing of pulse and respiration, the Prince model enjoys great popularity amongst collectors.