The Rolex 4768. The name alone conjures images of vintage elegance, precision engineering, and a fascinating history intertwined with sporting achievement and horological artistry. This stainless steel manual-wind triple calendar chronograph, dating circa 1947, is more than just a watch; it's a piece of wearable history, a testament to Rolex's commitment to quality and innovation during a pivotal era in watchmaking. This article will delve into the specifics of the Rolex 4768, exploring its technical details, its place within the broader Rolex lineage, its connection to famous personalities, and its enduring appeal in the collector's market.
Technical Specifications and Movement:
The Rolex 4768 is distinguished by its robust construction and sophisticated mechanism. Its stainless steel case, typical of the era, houses the highly regarded Valjoux Caliber 72C, a 17-jewel manual-wind movement renowned for its reliability and accuracy. This movement is the heart of the 4768, powering its chronograph functions – start, stop, and reset – with smooth, precise action. The "triple calendar" feature adds day, date, and month complications to the dial, enhancing its functionality and visual appeal. The anti-magnetic properties of the watch, as indicated in its description, were a crucial feature in an era before widespread electronic shielding. This feature protected the delicate movement from the increasingly prevalent magnetic fields generated by electrical devices. The combination of a robust case, a reliable movement, and practical complications makes the 4768 a truly versatile and enduring timepiece.
The Rolex Dato Compax Connection:
The Rolex 4768 is often referred to as a "Dato Compax," a moniker that reflects its place within a specific family of Rolex chronographs. The "Dato" refers to the date complication, while "Compax" describes the layout of the chronograph registers – typically three sub-dials arranged in a visually pleasing configuration. While the exact nomenclature varied across different reference numbers, the 4768 embodies the key features of the Rolex Dato Compax line. This lineage connects the 4768 to a rich history of sophisticated chronograph design within the Rolex catalog, establishing its place among highly sought-after vintage pieces. The 18K gold versions of the Dato Compax, while less common than the stainless steel iterations like the 4768, further highlight the variety and luxury offered within this particular model line.
The "Jean Claude Killy" Connection and its Significance:
The Rolex 4768, and the Dato Compax line in general, often gains added allure due to its association with famous personalities. While not officially endorsed by Rolex, certain models, including some variants of the 4768, are sometimes referred to as the "Jean Claude Killy" Rolex, a reference to the legendary French alpine skier. This association, however, is not based on documented evidence of Killy wearing a specific 4768. Instead, it reflects the watch's popularity among sports enthusiasts and collectors during the era when Killy dominated the skiing world. The connection highlights the watch's association with athletic prowess and a sense of high-performance achievement, reinforcing its image as a robust and reliable timekeeping instrument for active individuals. The mystique surrounding this unofficial connection adds to the allure and desirability of the watch among collectors.
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