Rolex Precision Waffle Dial ‘Classic’ Ref. 3745

A quieter side of Rolex, but with a charming waffle dial.

Dating to circa 1950, this Rolex Precision Ref. 3745 combines a 34 mm 18k yellow-gold case with a cream waffle dial. The fine geometric texture gives the surface real depth, especially as the light moves across it, while applied gold baton markers and matching hands keep the overall look warm and calm.

There is hardly any unnecessary text on the dial. Rolex at twelve, Precision at six, and that is about it. No date, no complication and no attempt to make the watch busier than it needs to be.

The case has those long, elegant lugs you want from a mid-century dress watch, while the domed acrylic crystal adds a softer vintage profile. On brown leather, the whole piece feels refined without becoming overly formal.

Inside sits a hand-wound Rolex movement, fitting the slim proportions perfectly. It is a very different side of the Crown from the Oyster and sports watches that would later dominate the brand’s image.

A solid-gold 1950s Rolex with a wonderfully textured dial, elegant proportions and just enough character to reward a second look. Available at Reestraat 3, Amsterdam.

Brand Rolex

Diameter 34 mm

Model Precision

Bracelet/strap: Leather

Reference 3745

Buckle/clasp Generic steel

Year of production (circa) 1950

Lug Width 19 mm

Material 18k Yellow gold

Set Content Watch only

Crystal Acrylic

Warranty 2 year (AWCo)

Dial color Cream

Movement Hand-wound

Unlike Datejust or Sea-Dweller, Precision is technically not a model name. It is simply a description of the specifications of the caliber inside.

You may be familiar with COSC-certification. Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres, is an independent non-profit institute that performs accuracy testing of Swiss made watch movements. Every individual movement, identified by its serial number, is tested and certified as a chronometer if it meets a set of standards. The most familiar is an average maximum daily deviation of +6/-4 seconds for mechanical movements. Today, about 3% of Swiss watches is chronometer rated. Rolex is, by numbers, the largest player in COSC-certified watches.

Most Rolex movements are chronometers. Many even underwent additional testing by Rolex themselves, to be labeled Superlative Chronometer. There are, however, Rolex movements that have not been externally certified for accuracy.

Famous are the Ref. 5513 Submariners. They did not feature individual movement numbers, indicating they were not chronometer certified. The Ref. 5512 was the chronometer variant, simultaneously available.

Another example are the Precision-labeled watches from Rolex. These were manually wound calibers, tested by Rolex themselves. A common variant is the Oyster Precision, which is a manually wound, time-only watch in the familiar Oyster case. Do not be fooled though, the Rolex quality is all there!

Several non-chronometer models are available under the Precision label. Besides the time-only Oyster Precision, a manual-wound non-chronometer Oysterdate Precision in 34mm case can also be found. This model is, in appearance, very similar to the more common Oyster Perpetual Date, but with a manual, non-chronometer caliber.

Today, all Rolex movements are automatic (perpetual) and COSC-rated. So to own a Precision caliber by the famed house is to own a piece of watchmaking history.

At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.

We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.

Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.