WHY WE CURATED IT: The Cellini line, launched in 1968 and named after Renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini, was Rolex's deviation from rugged tool watches into refined dress pieces. In its maiden decade, Cellinis quickly adopted avant garde case shapes that defined the era, before returning to classicism from the late 70s. This particular 18K solid gold example comes from near the end of that playful era and one of the last cool Cellini shapes. We love how the minute markers were extricated from the dial and carved into the “guill ind” bezel reminiscent of obscure 50s/60s Rolex Zephyr models, catching both light and shadow depending on angle. A small crafted detail but very fetching IRL as they glint and recede as you move. A ton of value and an opportunity to pick up a stylish unconventional Rolex that’s back in vogue and getting hard to find in good condition and price!
CONDITION: 8.5/10 with shallow signs of wear. Crystal, dial, hands, original signed crown are pristine. Used aftermarket strap in very good condition with plenty of life remaining. Gold plated Rolex buckle has hairlines but no sign of flaking or underlying material. Movement in good health with to-spec power reserve, good amplitude, low beat error and accurate to ±10 secs/day averaged from 6 timegrapher positions.
DIMENSIONS: 32.7mm width excl. crown 33.9mm length incl. lugs 5.4mm thickness 17mm lug width Visual dial width ~25.5mm Wrist in photos is 15.8cm in circumference
CRYSTAL: Sapphire
CASE: 18K yellow gold
WATER RESISTANCE: Assumed none, as per vintage watches
STRAP: Used aftermarket gloss black croc and Rolex buckle (14mm)
