rolex zerographe 3346 valore | Rolex ref 3346 review

The Rolex Zerographe 3346. The name itself resonates with a certain mystique among watch collectors, a whisper of horological history and groundbreaking innovation. It's more than just a vintage Rolex; it's a pivotal piece that marks a significant turning point in the brand's trajectory. Often referred to simply as the "Zerographe," this reference is not just valuable in monetary terms, but also immeasurably important for its contribution to Rolex's legacy.

Rolex Zerographe 3346: More Than Just a Watch

Understanding the "Rolex Zerographe 3346 valore" requires delving into the historical context and technical significance of this iconic timepiece. It's not simply about the "Rolex Zerographe value" on the auction block, but about appreciating its place in horological history. Why is the reference 3346 so important? The answer lies in three crucial "firsts":

* The First Oyster Chronograph: Before the Zerographe, Rolex chronographs relied on ebauche movements from suppliers like Valjoux. The 3346 was the first time Rolex integrated a chronograph complication into its renowned Oyster case, known for its water resistance. This combination of sporty functionality and rugged durability was a relatively novel concept at the time.

* The First Rolex In-House Chronograph Movement: This is the most significant achievement of the Zerographe. It housed the caliber 13 VZ, Rolex's very first in-house chronograph movement. This marked a decisive step towards greater independence and control over the quality and design of their timepieces. The development and production of this movement in the 1930s demonstrated Rolex's commitment to technical excellence and its ambition to become a vertically integrated manufacturer.

* The First Rolex Reference with a Rotating Bezel: The Zerographe was also the first Rolex reference to feature a rotating bezel. This bidirectional bezel, designed to be used in conjunction with the chronograph function, allowed for elapsed time measurements. This functionality contributed to the watch's practicality and appeal, especially for professionals like pilots and engineers.rolex zerographe 3346 valore

A Closer Look at the Reference 3346 Zerographe

The Rolex Zerographe 3346, often shortened to "Rolex ref 3346," is a manually wound chronograph housed in a stainless steel Oyster case. The case typically measures around 36mm, a standard size for the era. Its design is characterized by its clean lines and functional aesthetic.

* The Dial: The dial is usually silvered or white, featuring a telemeter scale and a tachymeter scale around the periphery. These scales allowed the wearer to measure distances and speeds, adding to the watch's utility. The subdials, typically located at 3 and 9 o'clock, record elapsed minutes and seconds, respectively. The layout can vary slightly depending on the specific variant of the 3346.

* The Movement (Caliber 13 VZ): As mentioned, the caliber 13 VZ is the heart of the Zerographe. This manually wound chronograph movement is a testament to Rolex's early horological prowess. It features a column wheel mechanism, known for its smooth operation and precision. The "hacking" or "flyback" function is another key characteristic, allowing the wearer to instantly reset the chronograph hand to zero with a single press of the reset pusher. This feature was particularly useful for timing events in quick succession.

* The Case: The Oyster case, a signature Rolex feature, provides excellent water resistance, protecting the delicate movement from the elements. The case is typically made of stainless steel, although some examples in gold or other materials may exist.

* The Bezel: The rotating bezel, usually made of steel, is marked with numerals or indices to aid in elapsed time calculations. It rotates bidirectionally and adds to the watch's sporty and functional appeal.

The Significance of the Flyback (Hacking) Function

The "Rolex chronograph reference 3346" stands out due to its innovative flyback function, also known as a "hacking" mechanism. This feature allowed the wearer to stop, reset, and restart the chronograph with a single press of the reset button. This was particularly useful for timing events in quick succession, making it a valuable tool for professionals like doctors, engineers, and military personnel. The flyback complication in the Zerographe was a significant advancement in chronograph technology at the time and demonstrated Rolex's commitment to innovation.

Rarity and the Rolex Zerographe Value

The Rolex Zerographe 3346 is a rare and highly sought-after vintage watch. Production numbers were limited, and relatively few examples have survived to this day. This scarcity contributes significantly to its value in the collector market.

The "value of Rolex chronograph" pieces like the Zerographe is determined by several factors:

* Condition: The overall condition of the watch, including the case, dial, and movement, plays a crucial role in its value. Well-preserved examples with original parts command a premium.