Rolex Tonneau 1939 Hugely Rare Champagne Dial Arabic Numerals Fully Signed Fabulous Vintage Condition. Stunningly Beautiful timepiece.
£2,005.79
A beautifully preserved and rare Rolex Marconi Tonneau wristwatch dating to circa 1939, showcasing elegant Art Deco numerals, a rich and authentic patina, and a mechanical movement that runs superbly despite its 85 years. The Tonneau-shaped case is both timeless and highly desirable, while the dial and hands retain their original character. Believed to have its original leather strap, this watch comes from a well-kept private collection and has been carefully stored for over two decades. A true collector’s piece with historical significance, graceful style, and enduring craftsmanship.
Rolex Marconi Tonneau Circa 1939 – Rare Art Deco Vintage Timepiece
This rare and visually captivating Rolex Marconi Tonneau is a remarkable survivor from circa 1939, possibly earlier. With its distinct Art Deco numerals—especially the signature '7'—and beautifully aged dial, this timepiece perfectly encapsulates the charm of its era. The subtle patina on the outer dial and centre hands adds to its authenticity and visual appeal, offering an honesty and originality that simply cannot be replicated.
Now 85 years old, this elegant vintage Rolex remains in very good overall condition, with age-related marks and gentle wear in line with its age and limited use. The Tonneau-shaped case, with its graceful proportions, is highly sought after and increasingly difficult to find in this kind of preserved state.
This particular Rolex Marconi hails from a well-documented private collection now being offered for sale. Having been carefully stored for over two decades—with only occasional winding and inspection—it has been lovingly preserved and remains entirely original. The leather strap is believed to be the original, consistent with its age and period-correct fastening.
Although last serviced approximately nine years ago, the watch has been thoroughly tested and continues to run superbly. We recommend a service within the next year, depending on usage. As with all our vintage pieces, we test watches over multiple 48-hour periods to confirm performance, and this one continues to impress.
Originality, condition, and history are the three pillars of vintage watch collecting, and this Rolex delivers on all fronts. The mechanical movement is pristine, and the watch is ready to wear, making it not only a fine collector’s item but a piece of horological history.
This is without doubt one of our ‘Helen of Troy’ pieces—so beautiful, it’s sure to spark envy. Elegant, rare, and steeped in history, this Rolex Marconi Tonneau represents everything a serious vintage collector could ask for.
If price is your only determining factor, this may not be the piece for you. While there are lower-priced vintage options on the market, few—if any—will match the provenance, condition, and rarity of this exceptional example. And yes, it really is that good.
Key Specifications
REFERENCE NUMBER:
BRAND: Rolex
STYLE: Wristwatch
CONDITION: Very Good
SCOPE OF DELIVERY: No original box, no original papers
MOVEMENT: Mechanical
CASE MATERIAL: Nickel chrome
BRACELET MATERIAL: Leather
YEAR OF PRODUCTION: 1939
CASE DIMENSIONS: 25mm x 35.5mm
CASE THICKNESS: 7.8mm
CRYSTAL: Mineral
BRACELET LENGTH: 195mm