Rolex

• automatic nickel-finished jewelled lever movement • silvered dial, applied faceted baton indexes, apertures for day and month in French, subsidiary dial for seconds combined with moon-phases, outer minute track, outer blue date with blue arrow hand • 18k yellow gold polished case, snap-on back • case dial and movement signed • with a gold plated Rolex buckle

Please note that the movement has not been checked for timekeeping accuracy and Sotheby's will not be held responsible for any repairs should they be required. The movement is running at the time of cataloguing and the functions appear operational. It would benefit from a service in a near future, Dial with oxidation and hands scuffed. The index for 5 has been polished. Case with usual scuffs due to use and age. . It is strong with sharp edges, probably never polished. Very elegant and modern watch with an appealing combination of pink gold and silver dial.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Rolex produced two watches with moon-phases: the present model, reference 8171, with a snap-on case back, and reference 6062, an Oyster model with a screw-down case back. 

Still with a strong case, this lot is a very desirable example of the reference 8171 which was produced in small numbers during only 3 years, from 1949 to 1952. They were made in stainless steel, 18k yellow and pink gold. The model got its nickname “Padellone”, the frying pan in Italian, because of its size of 38 mm, which was large for that period. 

Please refer to Franca e Guido Mondani “1908-2008”-100 years of Rolex, p. 45

For a similar example, see Dowling, J. & Hess, J., The Best of Time: Rolex Wristwatches, p. 209.