Rolex King Midas Ref. 4609 - Factory Diamond-Set Case

In the late 1960s, Rolex was looking to expand their lineup of watches with both more traditional designs, as well as design-forward offerings. This line of watches became known called the Cellini line with a subsidiary lineup called 'Midas.'

Like the rest of the Cellini line, the Midas pieces would come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and dial options, and all in solid gold. The flagship offering within the Midas line, the 'King Midas' were amongst the most expensive models the brand had ever produced and, at the time, limited in their production.

The piece that we have here is one of those watches, a King Midas Reference 4609. This very special piece features a five-sided case with a screw-down caseback, "King Midas" engraved into the left case profile, a truly integrated 'flat-link' bracelet design, and a factory diamond-set top case. Additionally, the crown at the 9 o'clock position is constructed to look like a sun and is recessed within the case. 

This particular example dated to circa 1976 and is constructed out of solid yellow gold. It remains in unpolished condition throughout, showing normal signs of wear from age with no significant damage or blemishes. The bracelet features a 'hidden' deployant clasp design with the usual Rolex coronet. Inside, it has a brushed champagne dial with an applied coronet logo, Cellini script on the bottom half, and a yellow gold stick handset. Most of the Cellini family features manual-winding movements, and this piece is no different.

This then, is a brilliant example of Rolex displaying a more artistic side, all while very much being a Rolex at heart. Low production, precious materials, and its a Rolex. Hard to beat.