ROLEX KING MIDAS

Maker: Rolex
Model: King Midas Cellini
Reference: 4017
Year: 1973
Serial: 3'4XX'XXX
Material: 18K Yellow Gold / Caliber 1600
Dial: Mirror-finish burgundy dial slight imperfections
Dimensions: 27.5x28.5mm
Crystal: Plexiglass
Clasp: Rolex Buckle
Box & Papers: None

The King Midas Cellini has graced the wrists of some of history's most iconic figures. Elvis Presley, the King of Rock & Roll, was gifted a King Midas after his performances at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in 1970. This watch, bearing the number 343, is now displayed at Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee. 

John Wayne, the legendary actor known as "The Duke," also owned a King Midas, numbered 557. His watch was sold in 2011 during the "The Personal Property of John Wayne" auction, fetching a price well over three times its pre-sale estimate. 

The King Midas even made its way onto the silver screen, adorning the wrist of Francisco Scaramanga, the villain played by Christopher Lee in the 1974 James Bond film "The Man with the Golden Gun." ^

Morning Inspiration: Artistic Strolls and Coffee House Contemplations

Outfit Inspiration: Bohemian Luxe Meets Effortless Cool
Pair the King Midas Cellini with a camel cashmere turtleneck, high-waisted cream corduroy trousers, and vintage brown suede loafers. Drape a burnt-orange wool coat over your shoulders to harmonize with the warm tones of the 18K gold case. The mirror-finish burgundy dial adds a whisper of refinement, catching the soft light as you leaf through your notebook or cradle an espresso cup.

This ensemble embraces a balance of textures and earthy tones, channeling a creative yet grounded energy. The watch’s unique geometry stands out as a quiet but commanding conversation starter—a symbol of your cultivated taste and artistic spirit.

Afternoon Momentum: High-Powered Business Lunch

Outfit Inspiration: Sharp, Modern, and Confident
Make a statement in a double-breasted charcoal-gray suit with peak lapels, paired with a crisp white shirt and a burgundy silk tie—a subtle nod to the watch’s dial. Finish the look with polished black oxfords and a leather briefcase.

The King Midas Cellini adds a touch of opulence to this tailored ensemble, its gold case gleaming under the ambient light of a well-appointed restaurant. While its size is modest by contemporary standards, its rich detailing and historical gravitas command respect—a reminder that sophistication doesn’t shout, it whispers.

Evening Escape: A Gala or Intimate Dinner Party

Outfit Inspiration: Dramatic Elegance with a Contemporary Edge
Slip into a midnight-blue velvet blazer with satin lapels, paired with slim black trousers and a black silk turtleneck. Patent leather loafers or Chelsea boots complete the look. The deep burgundy of the King Midas dial resonates beautifully with the rich tones of the blazer, creating a moody, luxe aesthetic.

Let the watch take center stage as an accessory, keeping other jewelry minimal—a gold signet ring, perhaps, or understated cufflinks. In the dim light of a chandelier-lit room, the King Midas glows as a piece of wearable art, seamlessly tying your outfit together.

Unveiling the Rolex King Midas Cellini Reference 4017, this timepiece is a testament to the bold, avant-garde spirit of the 1970s. Crafted in solid 18K yellow gold, the watch exudes a regal presence, blending cutting-edge design with Rolex’s legendary craftsmanship. As one of the most distinctive pieces in Rolex's catalog, the King Midas series bridges art and horology, appealing to the discerning collector who values aesthetic daring as much as mechanical precision.

Condition Overview

This 1973 example, bearing a serial number in the 3.4 million range, has gracefully aged, retaining much of its original charm while subtly wearing the patina of time. Its condition is indicative of a life well-lived but thoughtfully preserved, making it a compelling piece for enthusiasts of vintage horology.

Case & Dimensions

The 27.5x28.5mm asymmetrical case, inspired by the architectural forms of ancient Greece, is a sculptural masterpiece. Crafted from 18K yellow gold, its brushed and polished surfaces catch the light beautifully, amplifying the watch's already statuesque allure.

Dial

The mirror-finish burgundy dial is the heart of this timepiece's charisma. Its deep, reflective hue evokes the richness of a fine cabernet, with slight imperfections that serve as a poetic reminder of its journey through decades. The absence of indices draws the eye to the purity of the design, allowing the bold gold hands to stand out with striking clarity.

Movement

Under the hood lies Rolex’s in-house Caliber 1600, a manually wound movement as precise as it is understated. Known for its reliability and refinement, this movement underscores Rolex's commitment to exceptional engineering, even in their most artistically ambitious creations. It has been meticulously cared for and runs well, offering a smooth winding experience and consistent timekeeping.

Crystal

The original plexiglass crystal remains intact, bearing minor scuffs commensurate with its vintage nature. These can be professionally polished if desired, but they currently complement the watch’s patina, enhancing its nostalgic charm.

Strap & Clasp

The watch is paired with a classic brown alligator strap, secured with a Rolex-signed buckle, an elegant finishing touch. The strap is in brand new, complementing the gold case and deep burgundy dial while ensuring comfort on the wrist.

Accessories

This example comes without its original box and papers, but its distinctive design and remarkable condition speak louder than archival trappings. It stands as a work of wearable art, ready to write the next chapter of its storied existence on the wrist of a new custodian.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex King Midas Cellini Ref. 4017 is a triumph of individuality, capturing the audacious creativity of its era in a manner few other watches can. Its unorthodox proportions, luxurious materiality, and mechanical prowess combine to make it as much a collector’s treasure as a cultural artifact. Whether worn as a statement piece or admired as a historical marvel, this King Midas is a watch that commands attention and admiration in equal measure.

In terms of performance, the Rolex excels; it was tested for accuracy, demonstrating a seconds per day (s/d) deviation of 8, with an amplitude of 253—illustrative of its superb mechanical precision.

The price includes Swiss VAT of 8.1%, which can be directly deducted for export, and the shipping cost comes with full worldwide insurance. Please note that the customer will be responsible for paying any customs duties in their country.

If you desire a complete service, we can provide it at an additional cost, with a warranty of at least one year for precision and accuracy (not for waterproofness).