The record-breaking sale of the legendary Rolex Reference 4113, one of only nine in existence, highlights the powerful convergence of horological artistry and high-stakes collecting.
DUBAI – The gavel fell on a new chapter in watchmaking history in Dubai, as a legendary Rolex chronograph sold for an astonishing $4.7 million. The sale of the Rolex Reference 4113 by auction house FutureGrail not only set a new world record for the model but also propelled it into the elite ranks of the top ten most expensive Rolexes of all time.
This landmark price, which exceeded the model’s previous record by more than $1.2 million, was achieved after a preview event at the Bvlgari Yacht Club, drawing global attention to the UAE’s growing status as a luxury auction hub.
The star of the sale is a monument of rarity and engineering. Crafted in the 1940s, the Reference 4113 is the only split-seconds chronograph ever made by Rolex. Of the mere twelve originally produced, only nine are confirmed to have survived, making any appearance on the market a major event. Its storied past is steeped in the world of motor racing, a connection that adds to its mystique and desirability.
The record-breaking result signals a booming market for rare timepieces as alternative investments. Ali Nael, CEO of FutureGrail, commented, “This sale demonstrates that from Geneva to Dubai, watches of this calibre command incredible interest from collectors who recognize their enduring value.”
Arnaud Tellier, Head of Curation at FutureGrail, provided expert insight into the trend: “We see sophisticated collectors and investors actively diversifying their portfolios with rare, tangible assets like this Rolex. The winning formula is securing a piece with unmatched rarity in pristine condition—a combination that promises both prestige and potential liquidity.”
The auction coincides with FutureGrail’s announced plans to establish a physical presence in the UAE in 2026, tapping directly into the region’s robust demand for high-end collectibles.
