Rolex 'Padellone' ref. 8171 Oro

Price on request

Technical Details & Model History

Case: 18kt yellow gold, 38 mm diameter (nicknamed “Padellone” for its exceptional size at the time)
Movement: automatic Rolex with full calendar and moon phase complication
Dial: original with beautiful even patina and applied gold indexes
Complications: indication of day, date, month, and moon phases
Crystal: domed plexiglass
Reference: 8171
Year of production: 1950
Strap: brown crocodile with original Rolex yellow gold buckle
Condition: good, original dial and all period-correct components

Key Features

One of the very few Rolex models featuring a full calendar and moon phase complication
Large 38 mm case — an exceptional size for the 1950s
Original dial with charming natural patina, symbol of authenticity
Extremely limited production, lasting only a few years
Highly sought-after among collectors of complicated vintage watches

Historical Context

The Rolex “Padellone” ref. 8171 is considered one of the most important and iconic watches in the brand’s history. Produced for a short period between 1949 and 1952, it is one of only two Rolex models ever made with both a full calendar and moon phase. Its 38 mm case — unusually large for its time — earned it the nickname “Padellone”. This 18kt yellow gold example, featuring its original patinated dial and period-correct buckle, stands as a timepiece of great historical and collectible significance.

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