This weekend, the horological world holds its breath. Monaco Legend Group is preparing to auction a piece of history: one of only nine known (twelve originally made) Rolex reference 4113 split-second chronographs. This exceptional timepiece, once part of the esteemed John Goldberger collection, represents a pinnacle of vintage Rolex craftsmanship and a rare glimpse into the brand's less-publicized, yet incredibly significant, foray into highly complicated movements. The Rolex réf 4113, an "antimagnetique" reference from 1942, is more than just a watch; it’s a legend, a testament to precision engineering, and a highly sought-after collectible that promises to fetch a record-breaking price.
The Rolex reference 4113, often referred to as a "unicorn" within collector circles, embodies the elusive nature of truly exceptional timepieces. Its rarity is not simply a matter of limited production; it’s a reflection of the challenges inherent in producing such a complex movement during wartime. The 1940s, particularly the early years of World War II, saw significant disruptions to the Swiss watchmaking industry. Material scarcity, shifting priorities, and skilled labor shortages all contributed to a dramatic decrease in the production of complicated watches. The fact that Rolex managed to produce even a small number of these intricate split-second chronographs speaks volumes about their dedication to horological excellence, even amidst adversity.
The Rolex 4113 Movement: A Masterpiece of Engineering
The heart of the Rolex réf 4113 lies in its incredibly complex movement. While exact details about the movement's internal workings remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, due to the rarity of the watches and the limited documentation available, its capabilities are undeniable. The split-second chronograph function, a complication that allows the user to measure intermediate times within a larger timed event, is a testament to the skill and precision of the Rolex watchmakers. This function requires an additional lever and wheel system, adding significantly to the complexity of the movement compared to a standard chronograph.
The movement’s antimagnetique designation highlights another notable feature. In a time before advanced shielding techniques, protecting delicate watch movements from magnetic fields was a significant challenge. The "antimagnetique" designation suggests that Rolex incorporated measures to mitigate the effects of magnetism on the movement's accuracy, a testament to their forward-thinking approach to watchmaking. While the specific methods used remain unclear, it's likely that Rolex employed high-permeability materials or strategic shielding within the movement to achieve this level of protection. This further emphasizes the sophisticated nature of the Rolex 4113 movement and its position as a high-end timepiece even by today's standards.
Further research into the Rolex 4113 movement is hampered by the lack of readily available technical documentation. Unlike some of Rolex's more mainstream models, the secretive nature surrounding the production of the reference 4113 has left many questions unanswered. However, through careful examination of existing examples and comparison with similar movements from the era, a general understanding of its complexity and sophistication can be formed. The movement's architecture, the precision of its components, and the overall functionality point to a level of craftsmanship that is rarely seen, even within the world of high-end vintage watches. The Rolex 4113 movement represents a significant milestone in the history of Rolex and the broader world of watchmaking.
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