Chalo, let’s talk about the Rolexes nobody told you about

Say what you may, but Rolex has always sold the Submariner. And the GMT-Master. And the Daytona. Yes, yes, we know the classics. But over the years, The Crown has also made some seriously strange stuff, and honestly, it’s giving plot twist.

Proof comes from Rome-based Rolex scholar Pucci Papaleo, who has spent more than 30 years collecting some 70 Rolex chronographs. Now 16 of them are heading to Phillips in Geneva on November 7 and 8. Since it’s the season of staring at things we cannot afford, chalo, let’s meet the weirdest of the lot. Pick your favourite, no judgement. IYKYK.

1. Rolex Ref. 3830

A square Rolex? Haan, apparently so. Made circa 1941, this extraordinary 30mm 18k yellow-gold chronograph is thought to be unique. No other example is known to have ever appeared at auction, and Phillips estimates it at more than 1 million Swiss francs. Geometry is expensive.

2. Rolex Ref. 3525 “Bariletto”

Introduced in 1939, the 3525 was Rolex’s first chronograph wristwatch in an Oyster case. This one comes with a multi-scale dial signed by Australian retailer Prouds, and it is believed to be the only one of its kind on the market. Rare watch, rarer dial.

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3. Rolex Ref. 3335

Pink gold case. Pink dial. A chunky-for-1941 37mm diameter. This beautifully preserved early chronograph also carries the signature of the Naples retailer Monetti. Bellissimo, truly. If this doesn’t make you want to redo your entire wishlist, nothing will.

4. Rolex “Paul Newman Musketeer” Daytona

Even Paul Newman Daytonas can get weirder, and this one proves it. The rare Ref. 6239 wears an unusual black “Musketeer” dial, distinguished by the treatment of its three sub-dials. Same legend, completely different mood. Mysterious, moody, a little dramatic. Our kind of watch.

5. Rolex “Paul Newman Lemon” Daytona

And now, the main character. This creamy-yellow-dial Ref. 6264 is believed to be the only known 14k example from its celebrated 2.3-million serial range. The estimate is more than 1 million Swiss francs.

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So, which one are you taking home? The square, the pink, the Musketeer or the lemon? Tell me and I’ll pretend I’m bidding right alongside you.

(All images belong to and are credited to Phillips.com. We claim no ownership of them.)