Rolex Cellini King Midas Asymmetric Ref. 4017/6, Vintage 1970s Solid 18kt White Gold, Extraordinary Naturally Aged Tropical Forest Green Dial, Originally Midnight Blue, Manual-Winding Caliber 1600, Architectural Square Case, Vintage Woven Mesh Bracelet. This extraordinary Rolex Cellini King Midas Asymmetric Ref. 4017/6 reveals a fascinating collection of historic Swiss hallmarks concealed within its solid 18kt white gold case. Among these distinguished markings are the rarely encountered Geneva Key No. 35 case-maker’s hallmark, the prestigious Swiss Helvetia precious-metal hallmark, and the official 18K/0.750 gold purity designation. Accompanied by the original MONTRES ROLEX S.A., GENEVA, SWITZERLAND signature and Reference 4017 identification, these remarkable period markings offer a captivating glimpse into the specialized Swiss goldsmithing and case-making traditions behind one of Rolex’s most unconventional and artistically daring vintage creations.

An extraordinary and highly collectible vintage Rolex Cellini King Midas Asymmetric, Reference 4017/6, dating to the 1970s, featuring a striking solid 18kt white gold architectural case with broad satin-brushed surfaces, sharply defined geometric edges, and an unusual recessed square dial. The watch is distinguished by its exceptionally captivating Tropical Forest Green Dial, originally manufactured in a deep midnight-blue finish that has naturally transformed over approximately five decades into a mesmerizing combination of forest green, emerald, petrol blue, and subtle charcoal undertones. The minimalist dial features the applied Rolex coronet beneath 12 o’clock, silver-toned ROLEX GENÈVE signature, elegant cursive Cellini inscription, and slender polished baton hands, without conventional hour markers or a seconds display. The case is fitted with a finely textured vintage woven mesh bracelet, creating a distinctive integrated visual profile. Powering this remarkable creation is the Rolex Caliber 1600, a traditional 19-jewel manually wound Swiss mechanical movement, housed within an unmistakably unconventional precious-metal design.

The most extraordinary feature of this King Midas is undoubtedly its naturally developed tropical dial. Originally finished in a rich, dark blue, the dial has experienced a remarkable chromatic transformation, evolving into an intensely atmospheric forest-green coloration. What makes this particular example especially fascinating is the surviving midnight-blue pigmentation around portions of the dial’s perimeter, creating a striking contrast with the transformed green central surface. This unusual transition offers a visual record of the dial’s evolution, something that cannot be reproduced simply by selecting a different factory dial color. Its distinctive patina, subtle variations in tone, and evidence of natural aging give the watch an individuality that modern production techniques cannot authentically duplicate.

The King Midas Asymmetric represents one of the boldest and most artistically adventurous chapters in Rolex history. Originally introduced in the 1960s, the collection broke dramatically from conventional round wristwatch design, embracing sculptural geometry, asymmetrical proportions, and substantial precious-metal construction. Its design heritage is associated with the celebrated watch designer Gérald Genta, whose influence helped redefine the relationship between fine watchmaking and modern architecture. 

Reference 4017/6 is particularly appealing for its unconventional proportions and sophisticated white gold construction. Its broad brushed surfaces and recessed dial create an almost architectural composition, closer in spirit to a piece of modernist jewelry than a traditional wristwatch. The absence of conventional hour markers allows the extraordinary tropical dial to remain completely unobstructed, while the minimalist two-hand configuration reinforces the purity of the original design. Inside, the manually wound Rolex Caliber 1600 provides the mechanical substance behind this remarkable exterior, combining traditional Swiss watchmaking with the elegance of a slender vintage dress movement.

This Rolex Cellini King Midas represents an extraordinary fusion of rarity, artistry, and vintage Rolex heritage. Its solid 18kt white gold construction, iconic asymmetric silhouette, and naturally transformed tropical forest-green dial with surviving midnight-blue undertones create a truly distinctive timepiece. A captivating collector’s treasure, showcasing the unpredictable beauty of half a century of natural aging and the remarkable individuality that makes vintage Rolex collecting so fascinating.

Ref. 4017/6