Rolex Oyster Chronograph 3525 "Prisoner of War"

This Rolex reference 3525, known among collectors as the “Prisoner of War” (POW) chronograph, is one of the most historically significant vintage Rolex chronographs of the 1940s.

Long before the Daytona was introduced, Rolex was already producing functional Oyster chronographs. The early two-register models of reference 3525 are closely linked to a remarkable chapter of World War II: Hans Wilsdorf is said to have arranged for such watches to be delivered to Allied officers held in prisoner-of-war camps. This extraordinary initiative transformed the watch into far more than an instrument – it became a symbol of hope, dignity and resilience.

Produced in the 1940s, this early Rolex Oyster chronograph belongs to the so-called “Monoblocco” generation. This term refers to the distinctive case construction, where the bezel and mid-case were crafted from a single solid block of steel.

The total production of stainless steel reference 3525 is estimated at only around 200 pieces – a clear indication of the exceptional rarity of this WWII Rolex chronograph.

This Rolex 3525 is powered by the renowned Valjoux 23, a column-wheel chronograph movement highly regarded for its precision, reliability and classical construction.

This example features a silver dial, that is 100% original – a particular rarity, as many Rolex 3525 dials were restored over the decades. The visible, naturally developed and untouched patina underscores the authenticity and turns this dial into a striking witness of its time.

The watch is complemented by a period-correct stainless steel bracelet from the 1940s, perfectly matching the historical character of this rare Rolex POW chronograph.

Condition Report
Dial: Original unrestored silver dial – honest, well-developed patina – intact pulsometer and tachymeter scales – signed “Rolex Oyster Chronograph Antimagnetic Swiss Made”.

Case: 35 mm stainless steel Oyster case in Monoblocco construction – light signs of wear – well-preserved case profile – original Rolex crown signed “Oyster Patent” – reference 3525 engraved inside the caseback.

Movement: Manual wind Valjoux 23 – timegrapher results: rate: -14 s/day, amplitude: 248, beat error: 1.1.

Bracelet: Vintage Wandayke stainless steel bracelet from the 1940s – minimal signs of wear – adjustable length 17.5–18.9 cm.

Serial number: 386xxx (1945)

Int.Exe.: 18036010