Rolex Cellini King Midas

Rolex may be known to most for their superlative chronometers, tough-as-nails sports watches and iconic chronographs - but to say that's all they do would be missing a large part of their important story.

Rolex has been making beautiful, art-forward timepieces since their inception, and the Cellini collection best exhibits Rolex's commitment to perfection not only for construction but for style and design that exists beyond the scope of their better-known Professional collection.

In the 1960s they introduced the Midas line - so known for being cast in solid gold and being the most expensive models in the line. Featuring a variety of case shapes and dial materials, the best-remembered versions feature subtly asymmetrical cases such as the example offered here.

This particular example, a Reference 4315 'King Midas', may indeed just be the most Midas of the Midases out there. Featuring a solid 18K yellow gold asymmetrical case with a matching flat-link integrated bracelet, an 18k stylized sun crown, a gold dial, and a numbered case.

There is a whole lot to love about the Cellini, and while they have played second-string to steel sports models in recent history, we see the demand for Cellini models increasing dramatically today. As tastes change and trends evolve, we're confident that we'll be seeing an even greater desire for smaller, thinner, more elegant and artistic timepieces in the coming years.

Oh, and did we mention it was designed by some guy named Gerald Genta?

If you have explored this hobby long enough to find yourself here, browsing our website, maybe you have come across his name!

Though much younger than many of its heavy-hitting horological cousins, Rolex has been at the fore of contemporary watch design virtually since its inception in 1905 by founder Hans Wilsdorf. A veritable marketing genius, Wilsdorf understood the power of story, associating his watches with the most notable and intrepid athletes, explorers, soldiers and politicians of the 20th century. His efforts were clearly successful: Today, the word “Rolex” is nearly synonymous in the minds of millions around the word with “watch.”

From the early waterproof Oyster case of the 1920s through to the ultra-complicated Sky Dweller of today, Rolex models and innovations have captivated a global audience and permeated the zeitgeist unlike those of any other brand. Whether it’s a simple, time-only Air King, a function-first Submariner or a complicated GMT Master II for the jet set, a Rolex commands a certain respect on the wrist and says something about the discerning eye of its owner.

From the swimming of the English channel in 1927 to the scaling of Mt. Everest in 1953, Rolex watches have been associated with adventure for the better part of a century. Despite its association since the 1970s more with luxury and status than with commando operations behind enemy lines or sporting achievements, Rolex still makes one of the most robust timepieces available on the contemporary market. And the company continues to support scientific endeavors around the world.

Interestingly, for most of the firm’s history, Rolex largely did not produce its components in-house, including its movements. (Indeed, hand-wound Daytonas sold today at auction for eye-watering prices feature run-of-the-mill Valjoux movements that feature in watches from hundreds of other brands). It wasn’t until the early 21st century that Rolex became the vertically integrated manufacturing behemoth that it is today, purchasing everything from movement manufacturers to bracelet companies. (Notably, the Crown even forges its own gold.)

Whether one is attracted to the rich history of the brand or simply finds its products notable from an investment perspective, Rolex is a company whose wares are guaranteed to remain a benchmark for horological quality forever.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.