Rolex
*Unpolished* 1952 Rolex Triple Calendar Moon Phase (Ref. 8171) "Padellone"
The Rolex ref. 8171, affectionately known as the “Padellone”, stands as one of the most extraordinary and sought-after vintage timepieces in not just Rolex history, but horological history. Produced between 1949 and 1952, this rare triple-calendar moon phase watch showcases Rolex’s mastery of complex watchmaking, a trait seldom seen in The Crown's portfolio, to this degree at least.
Encased in a generously sized 38mm case—remarkably large for its era—and especially in this configuration, with long, broad lugs, and a deep case back to house the early automatic movement. This case design is the source of the "Padellone" moniker, an Italian word that translates to "large frying pan" in English.
This case design and dimensions are part of the allure and mystery of the ref. 8171, after all, Rolex was also producing the ref. 6062 alongside the Padellone, another triple calendar moon phase wristwatch, though the ref. 6062 featured a waterproof case, a feature lacking in the "Frying Pan" wristwatch— or is it? For some historians and collectors, the reason behind this is unproven but simple, the ref. 8171 exudes elegance and sophistication, and that is the true intended purpose of the watch, which the reference achieves astoundingly well.
Produced in three metal options, stainless steel, yellow gold, or rose gold, the latter being the rarest, with an estimated total production of approximately 1,200 pieces, of that a supposed 600 in stainless steel, and far fewer existing today. The ref. 8171 remains one of the rarest and most collectible models from Rolex, coveted by connoisseurs and auction houses alike. This is more than just a watch; it is a statement of refinement, history, and exclusivity—an unmissable opportunity for the discerning collector to own a true piece of Rolex legend.
The Rolex ref. 8171 presented here is one of the most impressive, honest, and original examples we've had the pleasure of handling. Featuring a remarkable unpolished case with an original and incredibly well-preserved dial. A keystone representation of the reference.
SPECS
| Stock # | RLX8171PAD | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Triple Calendar Moon Phase "Padellone" | |
| Model | 8171 | |
| Serial | 80XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Stain Silver | |
| Millimeters | 38 | |
| Bracelet | Gay Freres Oyster-Stretch Bracelet W/ Straight End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The incredible case is believed to remain unpolished, retaining factory-sharp finishing, lug holes, and edges throughout with no evidence of restoration present. There are honest signs of gentle wear throughout the case, though no notable dents or scratches are present. There is a light amount of corrosion present on the back of the lugs and inside the case back, which is expected for non-waterproof watches of this age. The case retains the original unsigned crown. The small brass calendar setting pushers located on the side of the case at 2, 4, 8, and 10 o'clock are original as well. The case back also remains unpolished, retaining the Rolex coronet engraving and serial number, which were faintly applied at the factory and are commonly lost to polishing. Sourced on the watch is an era-correct and very rare Gay-Freres stretch-link Oyster bracelet with straight end pieces, stamped 4th quarter of 1950. The bracelet exhibits almost no stretch from wear and will fit up to a 7-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original and unrestored satin silver dial with gold markers is in truly stunning and well-preserved condition. The dial itself exhibits some faint marks and subtle spots from age, most notably being what is present around the outer calendar track, though compared to other unrestored models, this age is nominal and only helps verify the authenticity of the dial. The text and printing of the dial, including the blue numerals that make up the outer calendar track, all remain intact. The original yellow gold feuille or leaf hour and minute hands, along with the gold sub-seconds hand and steel date-pointer hand remain original to the watch and in exceptional condition.
ACCESSORIES
This watch was previously auctioned by Sotheby's Auction House in December 2018. The watch is keeping running and functioning correctly, previous service history is unknown.