Rolex Precision 4498 Serpico Y Laino

This exceptional Rolex Precision Reference 4498 from around 1951 stands out for its rare Serpico y Laino signature on the dial and the S&L engraving on the caseback. Its generously sized 35 mm stainless steel case, with elegantly curved lugs, and the original early Rolex Brevet crown make it a particularly interesting collector's piece.

The history of Serpico y Laino began in 1925 in Caracas, Venezuela, when two Italian immigrants, Leopoldo Serpico and Vicente Laino, established their own jewelry business. Over the following years, the company developed into one of South America's most prestigious destinations for luxury watches. Particularly significant was its close relationship with Rolex, for which Serpico y Laino became the exclusive distributor in Venezuela. The jeweler had its name additionally printed on the dials of selected watches. Today, these so-called double-signed dials are highly sought-after reminders of an era when prestigious jewelers played an important role in the international history of Swiss watchmaking.

A particularly rare feature of this example is the surviving "S&L" engraving on the caseback, representing Serpico y Laino. Alongside the Rolex crown and case number, it documents the watch's historical connection to the famous Venezuelan retailer not only on the dial but also on the caseback. What makes this even more remarkable is that these delicate engravings have survived for approximately 75 years and remain clearly visible today.

The silver-colored dial impresses with its classic design and naturally developed patina. The slender hands harmonize beautifully with the applied Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o'clock, as well as the elegantly shaped teardrop hour markers. Below the applied Rolex coronet are the Rolex signature and the additional "SERPICO Y LAINO" inscription. The even aging gives the dial a particularly authentic vintage character.

Another rare detail is the original early Rolex Brevet crown. Its domed outer surface and finely fluted edge clearly distinguish it from later, flatter crown designs. Many of these early crowns were replaced during servicing over the decades. It is therefore particularly pleasing that this Rolex has retained its original, period-correct crown.

This beautiful vintage Rolex is completed by an original Rolex pin buckle.

Overall, a highly collectible Rolex Precision from the early 1950s, distinguished above all by its rare double-signed Serpico y Laino dial and the exceptionally well-preserved S&L engraving on the caseback. The elegant 35 mm case, beautifully developed patina and original early Rolex Brevet crown make this example a fascinating piece of international Rolex history.

Condition Report
Dial: Original dial with natural, even aging and rare additional "Serpico y Laino" signature.

Case: Slim 35 mm stainless steel case with light, age-appropriate signs of wear – well-preserved original engravings on the caseback, including the rare "S&L" engraving for Serpico y Laino and the serial number – light scratches on the caseback caused by previous opening – original, rare Rolex Brevet crown – width between the lugs: 18 mm.

Movement: Classic Rolex manual-winding caliber with small seconds – timegrapher results: rate +28 s/day, amplitude 295°, beat error 8.5 ms.

Strap: Vintage leather strap with original Rolex pin buckle.

Serial number: 821xxx (1951)

Int.Exe.: 13822