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Lot #5367

Rolex Precision 3060 Curvex Two Tone Dial Steel

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Introduction

The 1930s marked an important period of experimentation for Rolex, as the company explored new approaches to wristwatch design while establishing the technical foundations of its reputation. Alongside the development of the Oyster case and Perpetual movement, Rolex produced a fascinating assortment of shaped watches that reflected the prevailing Art Deco aesthetic. Rectangular cases, geometric dials and unconventional proportions became defining characteristics of these early creations, with the celebrated Prince collection providing perhaps the best-known examples. The ref. 3060 belongs to this broader tradition, distinguished by its elongated, dramatically curved case and architectural design. Although frequently associated with the Prince family, its conventional two-hand display sets it apart from the distinctive dual-register arrangement of the classic Prince doctor's watches.

Dating to the 1930s, this ref. 3060 is a particularly attractive example of Rolex's Art Deco design language. Its stainless steel case features an exaggerated curvature that follows the contour of the wrist, with sharply defined, faceted sides extending into the lugs. The dial is equally distinctive, combining a cross-quarters two tone layout with stylised Arabic numerals and railroad minute track that emphasise the elongated proportions of the case. Powered by a manually wound movement, the ref. 3060 offers an intriguing glimpse into a period when the manufacture was exploring a remarkably diverse range of designs.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$10,000 – $15,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

43.3mm x 19.5mm

Model

Precision Curvex

Movement

Manual-winding Rolex movement

Reference

3060

Bracelet

Steel bracelet

Year

1930s

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Two tone silver

THE DIAL

THE DIAL

The two-tone dial is a striking example of Art Deco design, featuring stylised Arabic numerals framed by contrasting quarters and a railroad minute track. Its carefully arranged geometric elements emphasise the elongated proportions of the case, while the central hour and minute hands preserve a clean, balanced display.

THE CONSTRUCTION

THE CONSTRUCTION

The stainless steel case features an elongated rectangular profile with a pronounced longitudinal curvature, allowing it to follow the natural shape of the wrist. Its faceted, geometrically defined sides extend into the lugs, creating a continuous architectural form. This distinctive construction exemplifies the experimentation with shaped cases that characterised Rolex's Art Deco period.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT

TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The stainless steel case shows surface scratches and small nicks, as expected of a watch of this vintage, while retaining excellent definition to its distinctive curved form. The case back retains well-defined serial and reference number stamps. The two-tone dial shows surface marks and some degradation to the railroad minute track. The blued hands remain clean. There is some crazing visible on the crystal. It is fitted with an adjustable stainless steel open-link bracelet.

Our Perspective

Long before the Submariner, GMT-Master and Daytona established the modern Rolex identity, the manufacture produced an extraordinary variety of shaped wristwatches. The ref. 3060 is a particularly appealing example, combining the elegance of a curved rectangular case with the graphic precision of an Art Deco dial. Its unusual proportions and distinctive construction make it an interesting alternative to the more familiar Prince references.

Eric Ku

Co-founder