Rolex Chronograph 4537

Reference 4537 is an exceptionally rare Rolex chronograph from the 1940s, distinguished by its unique case shape. Its primary technical feature is a large, 36.5mm square-shaped case with prominent, flared “horn” lugs, a significant departure from Rolex’s typical round Oyster cases. It is powered by a Valjoux-based manual-wind movement. The case is typically found in 18k yellow or rose gold and features a snap-on back. The significance of the Ref. 4537 lies in its status as a bold design experiment, representing Rolex’s foray into the more stylistically adventurous “form watch” category popular in the post-war era.