Rolex Cellini King Midas

Introduced in 1962 the King Midas has enjoyed a colourful history, starting life as a limited run before becoming a staple model in the Cellini series. Designed by Gérald Genta, pre Royal Oak and Nautilus, the watch was made to look like the Greek Pantheon (Temple of Gods). When turning the watch on its side the triangular tip resembles the temple roof, while the bracelet grooves represent the columns. Continuing the Greek Mythology the solid 18k gold watch was given the name ‘King Midas’ honoring the myth that everything he touched with his left hand turned to gold. The left hand part is important as it was the inspiration to fit the crown on the left of the case.

In addition to being the heaviest gold watch of its day the King Midas was also the most expensive Rolex model, roughly 30% more expensive than the Day-Date at the time. 

With its hefty price tag and niche aesthetic it found itself adorned to the wrist of not only movie stars but the refined and eccentric. For Rolex this was a watch that really tapped into a niche captivating the watch world with its polarizing appeal.

We have here a King Midas ref. 4315 , production started in 1977 with a number of design updates. 

Watch now is more thinner and less heavy at wrist. 

Other changes include the introduction of the single fold clasp and finally the underside screws to aid with bracelet removal. The upgraded caliber 651 is consistently used in the ref. 4315 with the dial featuring ‘Cellini’ branding.