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Lot Essay
Conceived in the mid-1940s, the Rolex Oyster Chronograph reference 4500 stands among the earliest predecessors of the modern Cosmograph Daytona. The model stood out in Rolex's production from the start thanks to its strong visual identity and simple, well-balanced design.
The reference is notable for being one of the very few Oyster chronographs produced with a single 30-minute register, notably omitting the 12-hour counter. Additionally, a new case architecture with straighter, more angular lugs was introduced: this design evolution would continue to impact Rolex Oyster cases for decades to come.
The present timepiece is fitted with an especially attractive multi-scale dial, featuring a blue telemeter scale set within the outer black tachymeter track, creating a striking and highly legible contrast. The reference 4500 was produced in a range of metals, including yellow gold, pink gold, stainless steel, as well as in a steel and gold combination.
The reference is notable for being one of the very few Oyster chronographs produced with a single 30-minute register, notably omitting the 12-hour counter. Additionally, a new case architecture with straighter, more angular lugs was introduced: this design evolution would continue to impact Rolex Oyster cases for decades to come.
The present timepiece is fitted with an especially attractive multi-scale dial, featuring a blue telemeter scale set within the outer black tachymeter track, creating a striking and highly legible contrast. The reference 4500 was produced in a range of metals, including yellow gold, pink gold, stainless steel, as well as in a steel and gold combination.