ROLEX | PADELLONE, REF 8171, YELLOW GOLD WRISTWATCH WITH DAY, DATE, MONTH AND MOONPHASE, CIRCA 1952

While some models are considered as classics from a brand because they are part of its catalogues for decades, other pieces are iconic because they are totally different from the normal production of manufacture. These watches can, for example, differ by the size or the complication. They materialize a different vision the brand had, in an attempt to explore new horizons and produce something completely new and groundbreaking. For Rolex, a shining example is the reference 8171. 

Affectionately nicknamed "the Padellone" ("big frying pan" in English), this model was produced in the early 1950's for only a few years . The reference has highly unusual and large non waterproof 38mm case and is one of the most complicated Rolex ever produced. It is one of the three watches with moon-phases, together with the 6062 and more recently the 50535, one of the two models combining it with a triple calendar, the other one being the previously mentioned 6062. Finally, it is the only one with a snap-on case back.

The 8171 is equipped with a large automatic movement, especially developed for that reference. The case was made by Favre-Perret in La-Chaux-de-Fonds with the case maker mark 115 in a hammer. The inside caseback bears the reference number underneath a second case number. That second case number is repeated inside the bezel, this time in Roman numerals as exemplified by the present specimen. This system was used by several brands at the time and is today extremely important for collectors to confirm that the different parts of a case were born together. 

A total of approximately 1,500 pieces of that reference were produced, either in steel, yellow or pink gold and a few two-tone examples. it is considered that only about 25% of the production was cased in yellow gold case such as the present lot.  

This reference was produced with two kinds of dial, the "Type A" (A for "Arabic") made by Beyeler and the "Type B" (B for "bullet") by Stern Frères that also produced the gold enameled moon and the days and months discs. This lot is an attractive example of Type B dial, bearing the Officially Certified Chronometer (OCC) signature at 6 o'clock, used on precious metal pieces. While most of these watches have seen their dial restored after being exposed to moisture for 70 years, this piece still retains it in original and untouched condition. It shows normal signs of aging and a subtle warm creamy patina.

Interestingly, most of the gold 8171 were delivered on a leather strap and a gold plated buckle, like the present lot.

This watch, presented in honest condition, is a rare opportunity for a collector to acquire one of the most fantastic and iconic creations of Rolex