206 Rolex Extremely Well Preserved and Important, Triple Calendar, Moon Phases Padellone, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Argenté Dial, Reference 8171, With Original Box, Papers and Booklets, Former Property of the Rolex Connoisseurs Collection

Estimate: €400,000 –⁠ 800,000

Model: Padellone
Reference: 8171
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1960
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 10 1/2
Case N°: 666990, Inside the caseback N°995
Dimensions: 38 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box, Papers and Tag
Literature: A similar watch was sold at Phillips “The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE” Auction, 11-12 May 2019 as lot 68 for CHF 980,000

In the realm of horology, the Rolex reference 8171, affectionately known as the "Padellone," stands as a beacon of admiration, desire, and exclusivity. Its technical sophistication and substantial size have enchanted collectors and enthusiasts for generations. Rolex's foray into moon phase complications birthed only two wristwatch models: the 6062 and the revered 8171, with the latter distinguished by its snap-on back. The charm of the 8171, endearingly termed the “Padellone” by Italian collectors, is timeless and remains a highly sought-after piece. Crafted in a limited series from 1949 through to a late batch in the ’60s, which saw very few pieces produced, the Padellone was offered in yellow and pink gold, as well as in stainless steel, totalling around 1000 pieces. The watch in question is an extraordinarily rare iteration with an 18k yellow-gold case, exhibiting impeccable conditions. This Padellone is among the rarest, as the inside case back bears the sequential production number among the 1000 units produced. With its number 995, this watch occupies a special position as one of the last produced, serving as a remarkable time capsule from the 1960s. This Padellone transcends being merely a watch: it is a slice of horological history, preserved in pristine condition as a forgotten gem from a bygone era. Its dial style, marked by a one-tone design and thinner indexes than the standard models, mirrors the changing tastes of the ’60s. Moving away from the two-tone aesthetic, this watch signifies the final batch produced in that period. The dial, crafted by the renowned firm Stern, remains in untouched condition, displaying the triple calendar dates in a captivating blue hue reminiscent of the moon phases at 6 o’clock. The yellow-gold dauphine hands and indexes bring a radiant element to the dial, shimmering under the light. Originating from a connoisseur’s collection, this Padellone seems almost untouched and is accompanied by the original box, certificate, and brochure. The inclusion of the original sales strap adds a touch of vintage yet contemporary elegance. Number 995 out of the 1000 units produced, representing one of the very last specimens manufactured, this Padellone is an extraordinary manifestation of Rolex’s craftsmanship and occupies a unique spot in horological history as a well-preserved artifact from the 1960s. It offers collectors a rare window into the golden age of watchmaking.