Rolex 'Prince' Aerodynamic Ref. 3361
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1940s
Maker / issuer
RolexThis is an 18K yellow gold Rolex Prince "Aerodynamic" gentleman's wristwatch, reference 3361, produced in the 1940s. The model was originally launched at the 1939 Swiss National Exhibition in Zurich.
The watch features a two-body, shaped, rectangular, and asymmetrical case that is polished and includes a blank cartouche on the front for personalization. The silvered dial is set with applied gold triangular and square indexes, accompanied by yellow gold dauphine hands. Internally, the watch is powered by a rhodium-plated 7 1/2''' movement with 18 jewels, a lateral lever escapement, and a patented superbalance adjusted to six positions.
The piece includes a self-compensating Breguet balance-spring. Both the dial, case, and movement are signed by the maker. The watch displays a distinct variation in profile thickness between the top and bottom of the case. Reference literature identifies this model as having been produced exclusively in gold.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Rectangular wristwatch
- Maker
- Rolex
- Cartouche
- Blank
- Reference
- 3361
- Adjustments
- 6 positions
- Launch Date
- 1939
- Case Material
- 18K yellow gold
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Case Dimensions
- 19 x 46 mm
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
- Movement Dimensions
- 7 1/2'''
Design
- Visible features
- • Asymmetrical, curved case profile • Blank cartouche on the lower case front • Applied triangular and square indexes • Rolex crown logo at 12 o'clock
- Case and Dial Design
- The watch features a distinctive two-body, shaped, and asymmetrical gold case. Designed with a curved profile, the watch exhibits a notable difference in thickness when viewed from the side, transitioning from the top to the bottom of the case. The front of the case incorporates a solid, polished blank cartouche designed for the addition of a monogram if desired. The silvered dial complements the gold case construction and is marked with the Rolex Prince signature. Applied gold markers, characterized by a mix of triangular and square shapes, define the hours. The time is indicated by yellow gold dauphine hands, maintaining a consistent aesthetic with the case material.
- History and Provenance
- This specific model was introduced to the public at the 1939 Swiss National Exhibition held in Zurich. Production of the Ref. 3361 occurred throughout the 1940s, during which time it was marketed in period advertisements under the name "Aerodynamic". Documentation indicates that this model was produced solely in gold and was never offered in stainless steel. The watch appears in scholarly horological literature, specifically within "Rolex, Collecting Wristwatches" by Osvaldo Patrizzi and Guido Mondani, published in 2001. This reference confirms the status and production history of the Aerodynamic Prince model.
- Movement and Technical Specifications
- Internally, the timepiece houses a rhodium-plated 7 1/2''' movement. It is engineered with 18 jewels and a lateral lever escapement to ensure timekeeping accuracy. The movement incorporates a patented superbalance mechanism that has been adjusted to six positions. The regulation of the watch is managed by a self-compensating Breguet balance-spring. The manufacturer identifies the watch as an officially certified chronometer. Consistent with the case and dial, the movement is fully signed, confirming its authenticity within the Prince model line.
Identification
- Reference
- 3361
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Movement requires an overhaul according to the auction description
- Research required: Dial requires restoration according to the auction description