CIRCA: 1974
CASE MATERIAL: Yellow gold
CASE DIAMETER: 23 x 36 mm.
DIAL: Silvered, with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia coat of arm and signature of Prince Khalid Bin Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only
BUCKLE: Yellow gold Rolex buckle
BOX: No
PAPERS: No
REMARK: Made for Prince Khalid Bin Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz al Saud

Conditions of Sale
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This lot is offered by Christie's International SA

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Lot Essay

To mark important events like diplomatic milestones, or individual accomplishments, governments and important royals commissioned these so-called 'Arab dial' watches. Made in incredibly small numbers, they were never sold to the general public through retail channels. Instead, they were given as presents to politicians, officials, or close friends as status and respect markers.

By adding their signatures, coats of arms, or national emblems to the dials, Gulf royals gradually started to further customize these watches, turning them into distinctive representations of authority and heritage. After being sold or inherited by their original owners, many of these remarkable timepieces eventually made their appearance on the secondary and vintage markets. Because of their scarcity, historical significance, and the distinctive cultural narratives they represent, they are still highly valued by collectors today.

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Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Signs of ageing and oxidation throughout the edge of the dial.
Case: With scratches and dents, case back with scratches. Hallmarks are crisp and legible on the side of the case. Engravings are shallow but legible.
Buckle: With scratches.
Strap: The watch is sold and delivered with a Christie's branded strap, the original strap is not included in the sale.

Should you require additional details or pictures, please contact a specialist.

The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.
Any reference to condition in a catalogue entry or in a condition report will not amount to a full description of condition, and images may not show a lot clearly. Colours and shades may look different in print or on screen to how they look on physical inspection. Condition reports may be available to help you evaluate the condition of a lot. Condition reports are provided free of charge as a convenience to our buyers and are for guidance only. They offer our opinion but they may not refer to all faults, inherent defects, restoration, alteration or adaptation because our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. For that reason they are not an alternative to examining a lot in person or taking your own professional advice. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have requested, received and considered any condition report.

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