230 Rolex Very Well Preserved and Attractive, King Midas, Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Diamond-Set Bezel and Lapis Lazuli Dial, With Box, Reference 4611

Estimate: €10,000 –⁠ 20,000

Model: King Midas
Reference: 4611
Case Material: Yellow Gold and Diamonds
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1976
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 650
Case N°: N° 3805, 4 266 906
Dimensions: 24 × 33 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box and Booklet

In the late 1960s, Rolex decided to entrust the creation of a new model to a young and ambitious designer. The name chosen for this model was King Midas, an iconic figure from Greek mythology with the ability to turn everything he touched into gold. Today, about 60 years later, this name almost sounds like a prophecy for the future of that young designer, capable of transforming each of his creations into gold for the various watch brands. The name of that designer is, of course, Gerald Genta. The first example of Midas was the ref. 9630 and was produced in a limited edition of 1000 examples, followed by ref. 3580, also produced in a limited series. The cases were made from a block of 18K yellow or white gold, and weighed between 150 and 200 grams depending on the model. At the time, the King Midas was Rolex’s most expensive model and considered the heaviest gold wristwatch on the market. Manufactured with an unusual asymmetrical square case design this watch has been also explored with other reference and designs, such as the reference 4611, exactly like this lot. The 4611 is one of the most exceptional amongst all King Midas references. Available in the second half of the 1970s, it featured a symmetrical case with a sumptuous diamond setting together with a hard stone dial. The yellow-gold case is very nicely preserved with three rows of factory-set diamonds on the top and bottom of the case and an integrated bracelet with horizontal grooves and concealed clasp. The incredibly beautiful dial has been manufactured in lapis lazuli, one of the most appreciated hard stones available on the horology market and one of the most fragile. The electric color of the dial is complemented by a yellow gold applied Rolex logo, baton gold hands, and a discreet “ΜΙΔΑΣ” (Greek for Midas) signature at 6 o’clock.