Rare Rolex Oyster Chonograph Monoblocco / Barilotto 3525

A rare and historically significant Rolex Oyster Chronograph, reference 3525 the very first chronograph to be housed within Rolex’s patented waterproof Oyster case, as earlier Rolex chronographs were not water-resistant.

Nicknamed the “Monoblocco”, due to its one-piece case construction milled from a solid block of metal for enhanced strength and water resistance, it is also affectionately known among collectors as the “Barilotto”, in reference to its distinctive barrel-shaped caseback.

This example is fitted with its original, untouched silvered dial in exceptional condition, featuring black outer fifth-of-a-second divisions, an outer telemeter scale, subsidiary dials at 3 o’clock for the 30-minute register and at 9 o’clock for constant seconds, with the word “Antimagnetic” printed above 6 o’clock. The dial is completed with blued steel pointed baton hands and a central chronograph hand. The original winding crown is signed “Patented Oyster” and the watch is powered by a manual-wind, 17-jewel column-wheel chronograph movement.

Presented on a new black alligator leather strap with the original stainless steel Rolex pin buckle, this pre-Daytona rare reference 3525 remains in excellent vintage condition. It is offered with our own presentation box and our one-year warranty for complete peace of mind.