The so-called Rösel Radiomir is a perfect example of the historical link between the Italian brand and the military world during World War 2 and is named after its original owner, Helmut Rösel, a frogman of the German navy in the 40s.
Commonly known as Panerai Radiomir reference 3646 Type C, this timepiece was auctioned by Artcurial last 18 July and sold for Euro 110,500, after being previously sold during another auction, held this time by Phillips back in 2017, and titled "The Geneva Watch Auction: Six." The lot included various objects, memorabilia and other items belonged to the German military.
Whoever has got his or her hands on this lot, has also secured a compass, the military's official logbook, a military decoration, Rösel's combat swimmer badge, an original photograph and two handwritten letters from Helmut Rösel in person. A set of items that, along with the Panerai Radiomir 3646 Type C, made this lot even more appealing.
The Panerai Radiomir 3646 Type C.
The Panerai Radiomir 3646 Type C features the caliber 618 originally supplied by Cortebert 1939 to Rolex; it comes equipped with a Breguet overcoil hairspring, 17 jewels and runs at 18,000vph. It is among the first mechanical movements ever supplied by Rolex to Panerai (Type A, B, C), finally followed by Type D.
The sandwich dial is deliberately anonymous since Giovanni Panerai was unwilling to apply his name on any watch supplied to the Nazis. In summary: it is by far among the highest coveted military watches, with a record-breaking value for a two-hands watch, covered by an authentic yet sad story, considering the historical context.
(Photo credit: courtesy of Panerai, Artcurial)
Gaetano C @Horbiter®
‘the military’s official logbook’ – It is actually a Soldbuch (Pay Book) and yes it would also act as a full history of the soldier as well as itemise all the items on his person by serial number. There are certain Soldbücher that reach the price of the watch!