Lot 137

Rolex

Versace Reggio Calabria

A charming antimagnetic vintage double-branded wrist chronograph with flat pushers, tachy and telemeter scale, retailed by Versace jewellers, Reggio Calabria

Sold

Rolex dials with double signatures are almost as highly coveted as the Rolex timepieces with the desired "exotic" or "tropical dials" and always catch the eye of the true Rolex aficionados. Right from the start Rolex watches were sold by the most exclusive jewellers and retailers all over the world, who proudly signed their names on the dials. The rarest and most highly sought-after examples of these Rolex timepieces with double signatures, however, are those sold by the famous House of Versace. They regularly fetch high prices at auctions, because for a passionate collector of Rolex timepieces they symbolise a long-gone era in the history of the company. While this type of co-branding used to be common practise with Rolex, it is not possible anymore today due to the extremely strict quality control.
This timepiece is in marvellous original condition. The attractive unrestored dial with the beautiful "VERSACE REGGIO CALABRIA" print has slightly darkened and acquired a maize yellow hue. It has subsidiary dials for the small second and a 30-minute counter as well as telemeter and tachymeter scales. The scales have gently faded - which in combination with the large indexes and the 12- and 6-numerals gives the dial a harmonious and balanced appearance. The case features square chronograph pushers, protruding lugs, a slim bezel and is in all together excellent condition. The engraved numerals and Rolex crown on the back are still perfect.

The Versace family jewellery shop was established by Agostino Versace in in 1875 in Cittanova, in the Calabria region. Shortly after the turn of the century his son Tullio Versace set up a manufactory in Vicenza for the production of fine jewellery and gold work. In 1926 the family business returned to Calabria and established the company Tullio Versace, which in 1939 became official retailer of the Rolex brand.