Rolex Cellini King Midas 4017/8 – Yellow Gold
The Rolex King Midas is one of the boldest watches ever created by Rolex. Introduced in 1962 under reference 9630, it features an asymmetrical solid gold case inspired by Greek architecture and a crown positioned on the left side. It was initially produced as a limited series of about 800 pieces, with each watch individually numbered. Its design is often attributed to Gerald Genta, although Rolex has never officially confirmed this.
In 1973, Rolex introduced reference 4017/8 as an evolution of the King Midas, integrating it into the Cellini collection. This version retains the iconic asymmetrical case but features a leather strap with a Rolex buckle, providing a more refined alternative while maintaining the characteristic elegance of the Midas line. The sunburst brown dial and manual-winding Caliber 1600 complete this rare piece, which was produced in very limited quantities.
The King Midas has been worn by iconic figures such as Elvis Presley and John Wayne, and even by Christopher Lee, who wore it in the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. More recently, contemporary artists like Rihanna and The Weeknd have brought renewed attention to this model.
WATCH DETAILS
Rolex King Midas Ref. 4017/8 – Technical Sheet
Model: Rolex King Midas
Reference: 4017/8
Collection: Cellini
Estimated production year: 1973
Case: 18k yellow gold, asymmetrical shape inspired by Greek architecture
Dimensions: approximately 27 mm wide × 38 mm long × 5 mm thick
Crystal: flat sapphire
Crown: positioned on the left side
Caseback: solid, signed Rolex
Movement: Rolex Caliber 1600, manual winding
Functions: hours and minutes
Power reserve: approximately 42 hours
Dial: sunburst brown with “Rolex Genève” and handwritten “Cellini” signature
Hands: yellow gold
Strap: original Rolex black alligator leather strap
Buckle: original 18k yellow gold Rolex tang buckle with embossed crown
Condition: fully serviced by Rolex, covered by 1-year Rolex service warranty
Accessories: original Cellini box, illustrated outer box, Rolex service card, instruction booklet
Notable features: rare configuration with sunburst brown dial and leather strap, very limited production
Provenance: worn by Elvis Presley, John Wayne, and Christopher Lee (The Man with the Golden Gun); recently seen on Rihanna and The Weeknd
