Rolex Precision 8171

Ref. 8171A very rare and attractive yellow gold triple calendar wristwatch with moon phases, small seconds and two-tone dial

Manufacturer: Rolex Year: Circa 1951 Reference No: 8171 Movement No: 20’548 Case No: 714’038 Model Name: “Padellone” Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, cal. 10 1/2”’, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Gilt Rolex pin buckle Dimensions: 38mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signedNicknamed the “Padellone” due to its unusual and large case dimension with a design that mimics the shape of a large frying pan, the Rolex ref. 8171 triple calendar wristwatch is with no doubt one of the most coveted Rolex references to have ever been released. Introduced in the early 1950s, the ref. 8171 together with its waterproof Oyster counterpart ref. 6062, were the only two vintage triple calendar wristwatches with moon phases ever produced by Rolex, and only for a short time. Remarkably preserved in its original state, the present example encased in 18K yellow gold is surely a phenomenal specimen of the reference as it is untouched, unrestored and boasts a heavily patinated two-tone dial, giving the present ref. 8171 an exemplified vintage appeal. Furthermore, the apertures on the dial are very crisp and retains its desired bevels and edges. The case for this present example is a fascination on its own. Preserved in an attractive overall condition, a hallmark stamped behind the bottom right lug remains crisp and deep, as well as the hallmark stamped on the caseband. The case number stamped on the caseback remains legible and the coronet stamped above is also present. Extremely rare, it is believed that only 350 examples in yellow gold were ever produced. The present example offered in its honest state of preservation is a rare statement to bear. With a heavily patinated two-tone dial, and a crisp case with two hallmarks, the temptation is real.