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Lot Essay
This “only second owner since new” reference 8171 is without doubt one of the best-preserved examples of the iconic model to appear at auction in recent years. First publicly sold at Christie’s in Geneva on 12 May 2014, lot 152, it has since been the cherished trophy of an important Asian private collector who, as its predecessor, has evidently hardly used it.
The case impresses with its superbly full and sharp overall condition, the hallmarks are incredibly crisp and the calendar correctors in the band seem hardly used. The “sleeping beauty” condition is further enhanced by the clearly visible case number and Rolex crown engraved to the outside of the case back, vital features of reference 8171 and particularly sensitive to polishing or excessive wear. The subtle traces of oxidation are another typical sign for watches which have not been used in a very long time.
The charismatic two-tone dial has evidently never been subject to any cosmetic enhancement, the attractive ivory patina which has accumulated over the years beautifully harmonizes with the off-white outer date ring. The overall appeal of this superb “Padellone” is further enhanced by the exceedingly rare German calendar: according to our research (this is one of only two examples featuring this unusual version to exist to date).
Ref. 8171
Affectionately called “Padellone” or “big pan” by collectors, reference 8171 is one of the most complicated watches ever made by Rolex. Distinguished by its large size and timeless design it is a favorite among aficionados and considered a “must have” for any discerning collection.
Together with reference 6062, ref. 8171 was the only model with moon phases made in series until the launch of the new Cellini reference 50535 in 2017. In production for a very short period between 1949 and 1952, the reference 8171 “Padellone” was available in yellow gold, pink gold and stainless steel, of the 350 pieces made in yellow gold only just over 60 examples have so far been seen publicly.
Both references 8171 and 6062 are automatic, reference 8171 features a snap on back whereas reference 6062, the Oyster version, is fitted with a water-resistant-type screw back. Reference 8171 was usually sold with a leather strap and a gold-plated buckle for the gold models.
The case impresses with its superbly full and sharp overall condition, the hallmarks are incredibly crisp and the calendar correctors in the band seem hardly used. The “sleeping beauty” condition is further enhanced by the clearly visible case number and Rolex crown engraved to the outside of the case back, vital features of reference 8171 and particularly sensitive to polishing or excessive wear. The subtle traces of oxidation are another typical sign for watches which have not been used in a very long time.
The charismatic two-tone dial has evidently never been subject to any cosmetic enhancement, the attractive ivory patina which has accumulated over the years beautifully harmonizes with the off-white outer date ring. The overall appeal of this superb “Padellone” is further enhanced by the exceedingly rare German calendar: according to our research (this is one of only two examples featuring this unusual version to exist to date).
Ref. 8171
Affectionately called “Padellone” or “big pan” by collectors, reference 8171 is one of the most complicated watches ever made by Rolex. Distinguished by its large size and timeless design it is a favorite among aficionados and considered a “must have” for any discerning collection.
Together with reference 6062, ref. 8171 was the only model with moon phases made in series until the launch of the new Cellini reference 50535 in 2017. In production for a very short period between 1949 and 1952, the reference 8171 “Padellone” was available in yellow gold, pink gold and stainless steel, of the 350 pieces made in yellow gold only just over 60 examples have so far been seen publicly.
Both references 8171 and 6062 are automatic, reference 8171 features a snap on back whereas reference 6062, the Oyster version, is fitted with a water-resistant-type screw back. Reference 8171 was usually sold with a leather strap and a gold-plated buckle for the gold models.