Introduction
Debuting in 1968 and stemming from Rolex’s acceptance of the idea that some of their customers would like to own a second watch, the Rolex Cellini collection is perhaps one of the brand’s most widely varied collections, with round leather strapped dress watches to oval shaped watches and tonneau-shaped pieces on integrated bracelets to rectangular-shaped dress watches and more. Perhaps one of the most special, and certainly one of the rarest, members of the Cellini family is the watch that we have here, the Cellini Centenario ref. 3612.
Launched in 1971, this watch belongs to a limited edition of just 10 pieces. While special and limited editions are rare for Rolex, they certainly do exist, and the ref. 3612 was created as a means to celebrate the 50th anniversary ofthe Centenario coin (often known as the 'Centario de Oro') and the 150th anniversary of the Treaty of Cordoba, which was the treaty that established Mexican independence from Spain, following the Mexican War of independence from 1810 to 1821.
Boasting a 39mm diameter and made from a 50 peso gold coin dated 1821-1946, the time-telling portion of the watch is hidden within a hinged cover made from the coin itself. Underneath the cover and within the coin is an 18kt yellow gold watch that is itself also hinged. An incredibly rare watch that pays homage to a tremendously important part of Mexico’s history, the ref. 3612 is a unique piece of Rolex’s history that would make for the perfect addition to any serious Rolex collection.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$20,000 – $40,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
39mm
Model
Centenario Coin Watch
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 651
Reference
3612
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1971
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Champagne
THE DIAL
Fitted with a hinged watch within its case, the ref. 3612's champagne Roman numeral display is an appealing piece of fun and intrigue that perfectly suits the 50 peso gold coin that it is hidden within.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Worn with a poise similar to most modern dress watches, the ref. 3612's flat profile and large 39mm diameter combine to create a watch that is decidedly contemporary, but with its hinged cover and lack of branding, its design is anonymous to all but the very, very few who would be able to recognise just how special a watch this is.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The pink gold watch case shows light surface marks, with still-legible hallmarks on the lug sides and well-defined engraving around the case edge. The 80-year-old coin displays some surface marks consistent with age, while the inner gold watch case shows light surface scuffs. The champagne dial remains near mint with very clean hands. It is fitted with the original Rolex lizard strap and a yellow gold pin buckle showing light surface marks. Please note that the watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
Unimaginably rare for a Rolex with only 10 pieces made in its limited edition production run, the Centenario ref. 3612 is a functionally interesting watch that celebrates a pivotal moment in Mexico's history in a unique manner, making it a wonderfully poignant piece of horology.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
