Skip to content
The Encyclopedia of Horology

Movement · Movement and dial assembly

Rolex Cellini wristwatch movement and dial, model 1601

Partially verified

This object comprises the dial and manual wind movement assembly for a Rolex Cellini wristwatch, designated by reference number 1601. The unit is stripped of its original case, consisting of a blue dial measuring approximately 26mm by 20mm and an associated movement. The dial features gold-tone hour indices, hour and minute hands, and printed branding including the Rolex crown logo, the text 'Rolex Geneve', the 'Cellini' model name, and the word 'Swiss' positioned at the bottom. The assembly operates via a manual wind mechanism, lacking an automatic rotor system. The face shows clear indications of surface damage or discoloration, particularly around the outer edge. The component is reported to be in working order as of the time of the source documentation.

The blue dial and movement assembly for a Rolex Cellini reference 1601, showing surface discoloration around the edge.
The blue dial and movement assembly for a Rolex Cellini reference 1601, showing surface discoloration around the edge. — Farber Auctioneers, via Invaluable. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Movement · Movement and dial assembly
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
1601
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
not specified
Source-reported place
Not established

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

Dial and Aesthetic Features

The dial is finished in a blue tone and features gold-tone hour indices. It is signed with the Rolex crown logo at the 12 o'clock position, followed by the text 'Rolex Geneve'. The model designation 'Cellini' is printed below the center, with 'Swiss' inscribed at the bottom edge.

The dial surface shows observable signs of wear, particularly concentrated around the outer perimeter. This perimeter degradation manifests as discoloration and surface damage, contrasting with the central area of the dial. The hour and minute hands are gold-toned to match the indices.

Evidence for this section
  • “distinctive blue dial marked with the Rolex crown logo, the brand name 'Rolex Geneve', and the 'Cellini' model designation, along with 'Swiss' at the bottom.”
  • “The face exhibits visible signs of wear around the perimeter, specifically surface damage or discoloration.”

Mechanical Movement

The assembly includes a manual wind movement, which functions without an automatic rotor system. The winding crown is attached to the movement, allowing for manual operation.

This component is described as being a partial assembly, having been separated from its original watch case.

Evidence for this section
  • “manual wind movement”
  • “As a mechanical movement piece, it functions through manual winding rather than an automatic rotor system”
  • “The movement is described as being in working order at the time of cataloging.”

Physical Attributes and Identification

The unit measures approximately 26mm by 20mm. It is identified by the reference model 1601, which the source notes is a vintage Rolex Cellini component.

The documentation provided is based on a single auction listing. No manufacturer's serial numbers or specific production dates are provided within the source text for this individual example.

Evidence for this section
  • “The dial measures approximately 26mm by 20mm.”
  • “identified as reference model 1601.”
  • “This item consists of a vintage Rolex Cellini wristwatch dial and manual wind movement”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific manufacturer caliber designation for the manual wind movement within this 1601 assembly?
  • Are there serial numbers stamped on the base plate of the movement that correspond to Rolex production records for the 1601 reference?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Cellini wristwatch movement and dial, model 1601
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference model1601“reference model 1601”
Movement typemanual wind“manual wind”
Dial colorblue“distinctive blue dial”
Dial markingsRolex crown, Rolex Geneve, Cellini, Swiss“marked with the Rolex crown logo, the brand name 'Rolex Geneve', and the 'Cellini' model designation, along with 'Swiss' at the bottom.”
Dimensions26mm x 20mm“26mm by 20mm”
Conditionsurface wear“The face exhibits visible signs of wear around the perimeter, specifically surface damage or discoloration.”

Visible details

  • Blue dial with gold-tone indices
  • Visible edge discoloration
  • Manual wind movement with attached crown
  • Hour and minute hand configuration

Research qualifications

  • Authentication status of dial and movement not confirmed
  • Full mechanical history of the movement unknown

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

Consulted source

Rolex Cellini wristwatch movement and dial, model 1601

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record a103a27df8

Terms in this record

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