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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Manual-winding wristwatch

Rolex Cellini King Midas Wristwatch

Partially verified

This Rolex Cellini King Midas is a manual-winding wristwatch dating to approximately 1975. The timepiece features an asymmetric, pentagonal 18K gold case measuring 28 x 27 mm, equipped with a push-back case back marked with the reference number 4017/11. The dial is a gilt Sigma-dial with applied baton markers. The watch utilizes a caliber 1600 manual movement. The design, attributed to Gérald Genta, is noted for its geometric form. The watch includes an original clasp and is fitted with a black strap. The auction description notes that the gold baton hands have developed a rainbow-coloured patina. The watch is reported to be in excellent condition, with minor micro scratches observed on the case and the movement described as capable of running, though cleaning is recommended for optimal operation.

Front view of the Rolex Cellini King Midas watch featuring an asymmetric gold case and black strap.
Front view of the Rolex Cellini King Midas watch featuring an asymmetric gold case and black strap. — Auktionen Dr. Crott (via Invaluable). Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.invaluable.com
Category
Wristwatch · Manual-winding wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
4017/11
Catalogue / lot identifier
361
Source-reported date
circa 1975
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
4002163

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Design and Case Construction

The King Midas wristwatch features an asymmetric, pentagonal case crafted from 18K gold, measuring 28 x 27 mm. The watch is reported to have been designed by Gérald Genta in the 1960s, with a design language inspired by geometric patterns from ancient Greece. The case back is of a push-back design, which bears the engraving of the reference number 4017/11.

The dial is a gilt Sigma-dial, a designation indicating specific material standards for the markers and hands, featuring applied baton indices. The auction house notes the inclusion of the original clasp. The current condition is described as very good, with the case showing only micro scratches and the dial described as immaculate. The gold baton hands are noted to have developed a rainbow-coloured patina.

Evidence for this section
  • “metric pentagonal gold case”
  • “Gilt Sigma-Dial”
  • “Gérald Genta designed the revolutionary King Midas for Rolex in the 1960s”
  • “push back with marking 4017/11”

Movement and Functionality

The watch is powered by a manual-winding movement, identified as the Rolex caliber 1600. The movement is reported to be in very good condition and capable of running. The auction description suggests that despite its functional state, cleaning is recommended to ensure proper performance over time.

The timepiece serves as a mid-sized manual-winding model, consistent with the King Midas line's integration into the Cellini range. No complications are documented beyond the basic time-telling function of the hour, minute, and central second hands.

Evidence for this section
  • “Movm.: Manual”
  • “Cal. 1600”
  • “capable of running, cleaning recommended”

Provenance and Identification

The watch is identified by case number 4002163 and reference 4017/11. The origin is stated as Switzerland. The King Midas line was initially produced in three limited series, later being incorporated into the Cellini collection. The model is associated with various cultural references, including usage by notable individuals.

The provenance and model history provided by the auction house place the production date at approximately 1975. The auction description serves as the primary source for the identification of the movement caliber and the specific history of the King Midas collection's development under the Rolex brand.

Evidence for this section
  • “Origin Schweiz”
  • “Case No. 4002163”
  • “circa 1975”
  • “Midas collection was integrated in the Cellini range”

Open research questions

  • What specific production volumes are associated with the 'three very small series' mentioned in the source?
  • What are the confirmed criteria for the 'Sigma' dial designation on this specific reference?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Cellini King Midas Wristwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
ModelCellini King Midas“Cellini King Midas”
Reference4017/11“Ref. 4017/11”
Case Material18 K gold“18 K gold”
Dimensions28 x 27 mm“28 x 27 mm”
Datecirca 1975“circa 1975”
CountrySchweiz“Origin Schweiz”

Visible details

  • Asymmetric pentagonal gold case
  • Gilt Sigma-dial with baton indices
  • Original clasp present
  • Gold baton hands display patina

Research qualifications

  • Movement cleaning status
  • Exact accuracy of origin attribution

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Rolex - Cellini King Midas

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 7784f9a7ee

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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