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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Rectangular wristwatch

Rolex 'Prince' Aerodynamic Ref. 3361

Partially verified

This 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.

Front and profile views of the Rolex Prince 'Aerodynamic' Ref. 3361.
Front and profile views of the Rolex Prince 'Aerodynamic' Ref. 3361. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Wristwatch · Rectangular wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
3361
Catalogue / lot identifier
98
Source-reported date
1940s
Source-reported place
Switzerland

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

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.

Evidence for this section
  • “Two-body, shaped, solid, polished, bearing a blank cartouche on the front.”
  • “When the watch is examined in profile, the difference in thickness between the top and of the bottom of the case becomes apparent.”
  • “Silvered with applied gold triangular and square indexes.”

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.

Evidence for this section
  • “7 1/2''', rhodiumplated, 18 jewels, lateral lever escapement, patented superbalance adjusted to 6 positions, self-compensating Breguet balance-spring.”
  • “Dial, case and movement signed.”

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.

Evidence for this section
  • “Launched at the 1939 Swiss National Exhibition in Zurich.”
  • “It is called "Aerodynamic" in the 1940's advertisements.”
  • “The present model has always been made in gold, never in stainless steel.”
  • “Similar watches are published in "Rolex, Collecting Wristwatches”

Open research questions

  • What was the specific intended function of the 'Aerodynamic' curved case shape?
  • Are there specific serial number ranges that correspond to the 1940s production years for this reference?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex 'Prince' Aerodynamic Ref. 3361
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerRolex“Rolex "Prince, Officially Certified Chronometer'”
Reference3361“Ref. 3361”
Case Material18K yellow gold“18K yellow gold gentleman's wristwatch”
Movement Dimensions7 1/2'''“7 1/2'''”
Case Dimensions19 x 46 mm“Dim. 19 x 46 mm”
Launch Date1939“Launched at the 1939 Swiss National Exhibition in Zurich.”
Adjustments6 positions“adjusted to 6 positions”
CartoucheBlank“bearing a blank cartouche on the front”

Visible details

  • Asymmetrical, curved case profile
  • Blank cartouche on the lower case front
  • Applied triangular and square indexes
  • Rolex crown logo at 12 o'clock

Research qualifications

  • Movement requires an overhaul according to the auction description
  • Dial requires restoration according to the auction description

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

'Aerodynamic' Rolex "Prince, Officially Certified Chronometer' Super Précision, Aerodynamic", Ref. 3361. Launched at the 1939 Swiss National Exhibition in Zurich. Produced in the 1940s. Very fine and rare rectangular curved, asymmetrical, 18K yellow gold gentleman's wristwatch.

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record e9cb16dd85

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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