Rolex Precision 8171

Ref. 8171A very rare, attractive and unusual pink gold triple calendar wristwatch with moon phases and "Precision" two-tone luminous dial

Manufacturer: Rolex Year: 1951 Reference No: 8171 Movement No: 67'806 Case No: 791'075 and 072 Model Name: 'Padellone" Material: 18k pink gold Calibre: Automatic Super Balance, 10 1/2''' Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18k pink gold buckle Dimensions: 38mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Literature: For an example of a pink reference 8171 without Precision dial, please see 100 Superlative Rolex Watches , by John Goldberger, page 55Reference 8171 is one of only two models ever made by Rolex featuring a triple-calendar and phases of the moon. The other reference, 6062, has an Oyster case while reference 8171 has a snap-on-back case. Thanks to its generous diameter of 38mm, it is one of the largest vintage wristwatches. Cased in either stainless steel or gold, examples in rose gold are particularly rare. The present “Padellone” (italian for “large pan”) is one of the most beautiful and best preserved pink gold examples seen on the market in recent years. It stands out from the ordinary (is there such a thing?) reference 8171 by a number of qualities, rendering it a premium example. It’s all original and unrestored condition, with minimal signs of wear, harmonises beautifully with the excellently preserved and untouched graine two-tone dial with applied facetted hour markers and the very rare luminous dots and hands. The “Precision” signature, commonly associated with the steel version (being however all correct on this watch as the movement is not marked “Chronometer” by Rolex) is a rarity by itself for a gold reference 8171. The case back still features the finely engraved coronet and serial number which is nearer to the centre in order to allow sufficient space for the gold marks, a legal requirement for watches originally exported to South America. Not only one of the most important Rolex models in absolute terms but also a fantastic watch to wear, the “Padellone” has long ago reached its elite position within the community of collectors. Examples of such extraordinary quality and condition even more so.