The Rolex Cellini Moonphase is the ultimate dress watch you don’t want to pass up.
Find out why it’s one of the most paramount models of the Cellini collection.
History of the Rolex Cellini Moonphase
The Rolex Cellini collection consists of simplistic dress watches that exude success without the typical exuberance Rolex is known for.
Rolex Cellini History
First, the history behind the Cellini model. These watches offer minimalist vibes and subtle features. Their design was inspired by the renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini, who among other things was a sculptor and and goldsmith. His clientele? Popes!
Therefore, to symbolize the Renaissance theme Rolex kept the Cellini design fairly simple as a nod to classic watchmaking. The hands on the dial are shaped as double edged swords. The gold for the case is poured in Rolex’s own gold foundry. The large roman numerals on the dial are possibly it’s most striking and obvious feature.
Cellini Moonphase Era
Later, Rolex released the Cellini Moonphase at Baselworld 2017. This moonphase complication is a first for the Cellini models.
Traditionally, Cellini models only offered the simplest of features:
- time-only
- time and date
- dual time
This moonphase model was the first to be reintroduced after they seemed to disappear from Rolex offerings back in the 1950’s.
Currently, all other Rolex Cellini models have been discontinued from production. But that doesn’t mean Rolex won’t reimagine this model in the future!
Rolex Cellini Moonphase Details
Next, let’s examine the Cellini Moonphase features.
Dial
The Cellini Moonphase has a white lacquer dial with a blue enamelled disc at 6 o’clock showing the full moon and the new moon, the former depicted by a real meteorite applique and the latter by a silver ring.
The moonphase is read via the indicator set at 12 o’clock on the subdial, as the full moon and new moon rotate through the lunar cycle. The Cellini Moonphase also displays the date around the circumference of the dial, via a centre hand with a crescent moon at its tip.
Bezel
The Rolex Cellini Moonphase boasts a double bezel– one domed and the second delicately fluted. This simple addition adds a little something to the simple design.
An emblematic Rolex feature, this fluting is also present on the screw-down case back, which is domed as in bygone eras.
Case and Bracelet
The 39 mm case is cast in 18 ct Everose gold with a polished finish. Rolex introduced Everose gold in 2005, after the brand created and patented the exclusive pink gold alloy cast in its own foundry.
A brown tobacco alligator leather strap perfectly accents the Cellini Moonphase. It comes with a folding Crownclasp in 18 ct Everose gold, a first for a Cellini model.
The Moonphase Complication
The Cellini Moonphase features an exclusive display of the phases of the moon. A white lacquer dial with a blue enameled disc at 6 o’clock shows the full moon and the new moon.
The full moon is depicted by a meteorite applique and the new moon by a silver ring.
The moonphase is read via the indicator set at 12 o’clock on the subdial, as the full moon and new moon rotate through the lunar cycle.
This model is driven by a self-winding mechanical movement entirely manufactured by Rolex, whose patented moonphase module is astronomically accurate for 122 years.
Technical Specs
MODEL CASE
39 mm, 18 ct Everose gold, polished finish
DIAMETER
39 mm
MATERIAL
18 ct Everose gold
BEZEL
Double bezel, domed and fluted
BRACELET
Leather strap
BRACELET MATERIAL
Tobacco leather
CLASP
Folding Crownclasp
WINDING CROWN
Flared screw-down winding crown with Rolex emblem
CRYSTAL
Domed sapphire crystal
WATER RESISTANCE
Waterproof to 50 metres / 165 feet
MOVEMENT
Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
CALIBRE
3195, Manufacture Rolex
PRECISION
-2/+2 sec/day, after casing
FUNCTIONS
Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Moonphase at 6 o’clock. Date display via centre hand
WINDING
Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor
POWER RESERVE
Approximately 48 hours
Final Thoughts on the Rolex Cellini Moonphase
The Cellini is a great watch addition for a distinguished collector or for someone who wants to veer off from the Rolex norm! It’s simple, stylish, and a subtle nod to classic watch design.
If you’d like to see one of the three models in person, give us a call. Jonathan’s Fine Jewelers can overnight one of these models to our showroom upon request for viewing.
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