ROLEX | 'PADELLONE' REF 8171A FINE STAINLESS STEEL AUTOMATIC TRIPLE CALENDAR WRISTWATCH WITH MOON PHASES CIRCA 1952

Dial: silvered Caliber: 10.5'" automatic movement, 18 jewels Movement number: 67157Case: stainless steel, snap on case back Case number: 820706Dimensions: 38 mm diameterSigned: case, dial and movement

CASEThe case is in excellent overall condition with sharp bezel and well proportioned lugs. The case has minor surface scratching visible, however, in our opinion the watch has never been polished. The engraving on the caseback with the coronet and case number remain visible and well defined. DIALThe silvered graine finished dial is in superb condition, and in our view, is free of prior restoration. The printing on the dial remains crisp and intact. There are some light debris found on the dial, most notably between 5 to 8 o'clock. There is a stain to the right of the center hands. There is residue to the dial around the entire date scale, most noticeable from 24 to 26.MOVEMENTThe movement has a bit of pitting. There is some dirt around the outer edge from wear. The movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The present example of the reference 8171 retains an honest, unpolished crisp case, with hard edges and thick lugs. The case back retains the original deep engravings of the Rolex coronet logo and the serial number at the bottom. The dial remains unrestored, with well defined apertures and an even ivory color overall. The seconds track, signature, and outer track and numerals all remain extremely fine and well defined, and the entire dial has survived with minimal blemishes. The present lot is an exciting opportunity for a very particular collector who values condition and rarity above all.Often referred to as the "Padellone" (the Italian word for frying pan), the reference 8171 is one of the most coveted vintage Rolex watches on the market.  At 38 mm, its dial was substantially larger than other models at the time. 

Rolex created a name for itself by creating excellent sports watches.  As such, triple calendars with moon phases have rarely made an appearance in the firm's history.  In fact, Rolex made only two watches with moon phases: the Reference 8171 with the snap-on case back, and the Reference 6062, an Oyster model with a screw-down case back. The firm produced the 8171 for only three years, during 1949-1952.