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 brands most widely varied collections, with round leather strapped dress watches to oval-shaped pieces of distilled excellence and even integrated bracelet watches like the King Midas ref. 4611 that we have here, the collection is varied and rich with diversity. Launched in the 1960s, Rolex approached a young Gerald Genta to design a gold watch fit for royalty. Inspired by several of the Greek temples in Athens, Genta designed the King Midas references with a variety of shapes ranging from asymmetrical pentagon-shaped models with a left-handed crown arrangement to more symmetrical models like the ref. 4316 that we have here that also kept the integrated bracelet of its sibing models. Named after King Midas, whose touch could turn anything to gold, the King Midas was an exclusive timepiece that weighed double that of a Day-Date, Rolex’s flagship and most exclusive collection. Taking elements of King Midas’ story and implementing them into the watch itself, Genta showcased his ability to create a unique watch unlike anything else. With its unique case reflecting the design of a temple roof and hefty 18kt gold construction taking inspiration from King Midas’ golden touch, the King Midas is perhaps one of Rolex’s most unique watches ever, and with its stunning tiger's eye dial, this ref. 4316 is aesthetically rich, luxurious and exclusive – a true collector’s piece in every sense imaginable.

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case is very well defined with a deep hallmark on the side, showing some scratches and a small nick on the lower front lip of the case below the dial. The case back retains its vertical brushed finish with a deep hallmark and some scratches. The hardstone dial is free from hairlines and surface cracks. The gold hands are very clean. The integrated bracelet has very well-defined engravings on the inside and a crisp coronet on the clasp, with surface scratches as expected on a watch of this vintage. The bracelet currently fits a 7" wrist and has 18 links, 2 of which are removable. There is negligible play between the links.

An entirely unique watch that completely breaks from Rolex convention, the King Midas offered, and still offers, a completely different experience and aesthetic from anything the brand has ever produced. This example is one of the most coveted, with its beautiful brown Tiger's eye stone dial.