The use of 
time signature surprises only in GE1, as in FE the 
indication was not used in the Etudes – contrary to the manuscripts – at all, neither in Op. 25 nor in Op. 10 and the Etude in F minor, Dbop. 36 No. 1 (cf. also the Impromptu in A
major, Op. 29). In any case, the correctness and authenticity of the time signature is unquestionable due to the compatible version of FC and EE. The correct time signature was returned in GE2 (→GE3).
Compare the passage in the sources»
category imprint: Differences between sources
issues: Changes of metre, Inaccuracies in GE, Inaccuracies in FE, GE revisions, 4/4 or 2/2
notation: Rhythm