Technical Details & Model History

• Case: stainless steel, 38 mm diameter (nicknamed “Padellone” for its oversized dimensions at the time)
• Movement: automatic Rolex with complete calendar and moon phases
• Dial: original silvered with applied indexes and peripheral calendar scale
• Complications: full calendar (day, date, month) + moon phases
• Crystal: domed plexiglass
• Reference: 8171
• Year of production: 1950
• Strap: brown crocodile with original steel buckle
• Condition: excellent, rare example in outstanding preservation

Key Features

• Ref. 8171 is one of the very few Rolex models featuring both a complete calendar and moon phases
• Large 38 mm diameter, enormous for its era, earning the nickname “Padellone”
• Produced for only a few years (1950–1952), making it one of the rarest and most collectible Rolex watches ever
• Original silvered dial with natural patina and applied indexes

Historical Context

The Rolex ref. 8171, known as the “Padellone”, is one of the most important and sought-after watches in the brand’s history. Introduced in 1950 and produced for only a few years, it is one of just two Rolex models ever made with both a complete calendar and moon phases. For its rarity, size, and historical significance, it is considered a true “grail” among collectors worldwide.