Rolex Chronograph 3481

The Rolex Chronograph reference 3481 is a model of extreme rarity and historical importance, produced around the early 1940s. Its significance is rooted in its exceptionally large size for the era and its scarcity, with only a few examples known to exist. This non-Oyster chronograph features a substantial 18k yellow gold case with a snap-on back, making it a bold and luxurious statement piece from its time. The reference is distinguished by its oversized 37.5mm case, which was highly unusual for a 1940s wristwatch. The dial is typically silvered, with applied gold Arabic and dot hour markers, and includes both outer tachymeter and telemeter scales for functional timing. The watch is powered by a manually wound 13-ligne chronograph caliber. Given that so few pieces have ever surfaced, the reference 3481 is considered a “grail” watch for top-tier vintage Rolex collectors, representing a fascinating and seldom-seen aspect of the brand’s chronograph production.