Ref. 8171An extremely rare, exceptional, large and highly attractive stainless steel triple calendar wristwatch with moonphases
Manufacturer: Rolex
Year: Circa 1950
Reference No: 8171
Movement No: 67'191
Case No: 686'057 and 225
Model Name: ‘Padellone’
Material: Stainless steel
Calibre: Automatic, 10"1/2, 18 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Dark brown leather strap
Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex buckle
Dimensions: 38mm. Diameter
Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
Literature: A similar example is published in John Goldberger’s “100 Superlative Rolex Watches” on pages 76 & 77.Reference 8171 is lovingly dubbed ‘Padellone’, which translate to ‘large frying pan’ in Italian. Boasting a generous 38 mm case, it is slightly larger than its waterproof ‘Oyster’ sibling, reference 6062. It is interesting to note that both reference 8171 and 6062 were the only two ‘complicated’ models that Rolex ever produced, giving both references a mythical reputation and cult-like following.
Most interestingly, both models were produced for a very short period of time in the early 1950s. To acquire even one of these watches has become a dream for many collectors today.
Reference 8171 and 6062 were available in yellow gold, pink gold, and most exclusively, in stainless steel.
A similar example, cased in stainless steel, was sold at Phillips’ The Geneva Watch Auction: TWO, lot 167, for an astounding 905,000 CHF.
John Goldberger's Opinion
The present watch captivates and surprises in so many ways. The case is crisp, with sharp finishing to the bezel and the top of the lugs. The central band, too, retains immaculate satin-finishes. The same can be said for the case back, which displays a sharp coronet and crisp case numbers. The lines, curves, and finishes are all completely original.
As with all ‘Padellone’ watches, the beauty lies in the dial. Those in original condition, such as this one, are few and far between, appearing infrequently on the market. The sharp track, where the moon phase aperture meets the rim of the subsidiary dial, is incredibly precise and correct. The sharp dagger numerals complement the ivory dial, and drawattention to the perfect blue outer date ring. One would expect to see significant spotting to the dial considering that this watch is not waterproof and over 60 years old. Yet, it remains clear of blemishes.
At the time of production, watches dressed in yellow gold or pink gold livery were considered the most valuable, with stainless steel examples often chosen for everyday wear. As such, one is more likely to find an untouched example in gold. To find such an immaculate and original example, cased in stainless steel, has been a real pleasure for me.
