Rolex Precision 8171

Ref. 8171A rare and attractive yellow gold triple calendar wristwatch with moonphases and two-tone dial

Manufacturer: Rolex Year: Circa 1951 Reference No: 8171 Movement No: 205'48 Case No: 714'038 Model Name: "Padellone" Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, cal. 10 1/2''', 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Metal buckle Dimensions: 38mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signedProudly displaying a generous 38mm case, reference 8171 is known in the collecting community as the "Padellone", meaning large frying pan in Italian, due to its large case size - an incredibly unusual design for the 1950s. It is slightly larger than its waterproof Oyster sibling, reference 6062. Its rarity coupled with design purity has garnered reference 8171 a cult-like following. Both references were the only vintage triple calendar models that Rolex ever produced, and they were manufactured for only a very short period in the early 1950s. Cased in yellow gold, this watch is very remarkable due to its completely pure and honest state of preservation. A true survivor, the dial displays intense patina that enhances its two-tone design. While the center portion boasts a champagne tone, the outer ring has aged to a warm ivory color. Furthermore, the sharp track where the moon phase aperture meets the rim of the subsidiary dial is incredibly precise and correct, as are the crisp angled date and day apertures at 12 o'clock. The case is also offered in impressive condition. While one hallmark is crisply punched on the caseband, another equally deep hallmark is present beneath the bottom right lug. The Rolex coronet is clearly visible on the case back, as is the case number. It is not every day that a reference 8171 graces the auction market. One cannot overstate the rarity of a completely original “Padellone”, and to offer one with so much charisma is nothing short of remarkable.