Revolution: The Evolution of the Role...

New York, Apr 17, 2008

LOT 230

Ref. 8171, Stainless Steel "Padellone" Rolex, ?Perpetual, Officially Certified Chronometer?, Ref. 8171. Made in 1950. Very fine and rare astronomic, antimagnetic, self-winding, stainless steel wristwatch with triple date, moon phases stainless steel Rolex buckle.

USD 100,000 - 150,000

EUR 67,000 - 100,000

Sold: USD 119,600

C. Three-body, polished, sloped bezel, concave and curved lugs. D. Matte silver with applied steel dart and pyramidal indexes, Arabic 12, outer minute divisions, subsidiary seconds, outermost graduation for the days of the month in blue Arabic numerals, apertures for the days of the week, the months and the moon phases. White gold baton hands. M. Cal. 10 1/2''', rhodium-plated, 18 jewels, straight line lever escapement, Superbalance, self-compensating Breguet balance spring. Dial, case, and movement signed. Diam. 38 mm. Thickness 13.2 mm.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-01

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

The reference 8171 has been for years one of the most sought after models by collectors. It was produced from 1949 through 1952 in yellow and pink gold as well as stainless steel. The incredibly original and un-restored condition of the present watch including the interior and exterior of the case back provides the collector with an excellent opportunity to better understand the production techniques of Rolex. For example the number 280 stamped in the case back refers to the fact that the present watch was the 280th example of the reference 8171 to be made. In addition, the ref. 8171's case back was engraved with the Rolex coronet and the case number (the present watch bearing the number '6863xx').