Rarely offered at auction, this reference 4768 in stainless steel and pink gold is a particularly appealing example. The rarity of the present watch is further enhanced by the excellent untouched and original condition of the dial that has mellowed beautifully over the last nearly seventy years with the patina of age so desired by collectors.

Reference 4768 was launched in 1947, it was the first calendar chronograph wristwatch made by Rolex and came to be known as the “Dato Compax”. According to literature, only 220 examples of the model were made. It was available in stainless steel, yellow and pink gold as well as steel and gold (yellow and pink). The reference is fitted with one of the most sophisticated movements ever used by the company, the Valjoux 72C. The elegant case design, large faceted teardrop lugs and the clear dial display render the watch a more elegant look than its sporty Oyster successors.

Different versions in regard to case material and dial layout are illustrated in: I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 366-371.
Further examples are illustrated in: The Best of Time, Rolex Wristwatches, Dowling & Hess, 1996, pp. 229-230.