39 Rolex A historically important, early and very rare, King Midas, asymmetric manual wristwatch in yellow gold, number 3, reference 9630.
Estimate: Fr. 30'000 – 60'000
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- Model King Midas
- Year Circa 1961
- Reference 9630
- Case Material 18K yellow gold
- Case Number N° 003, 733'091
- Bracelet Material 18K yellow gold Rolex bracelet, approximate length 200mm
- Movement Manual, cal. 650, 18 jewels
- Dimension 27mm width x 27mm length
- Signed Case, dial and movement
An exceptional example of Rolex’s bold and unconventional design from the 1960s, the King Midas reference 9630 is immediately recognizable for its asymmetrical, sculptural case and avant-garde lines, a striking departure from traditional Rolex aesthetics. Commissioned in the early 1960s and designed by Gérald Genta, years before his iconic Royal Oak and Nautilus, the watch drew inspiration from the architecture of the Greek Parthenon, revealing Genta’s artistic approach and lasting influence on modern watch design. Introduced in 1962 and produced until approximately 1972, this reference represents the very first King Midas series which notably does not bear the “Cellini” signature on the dial, distinguishing it from later iterations. This particular example, No. 003, is crafted in yellow gold and belongs to the earliest production of the reference. According to scholarship, fewer than 800 examples of the reference 9630 were produced across all metals. Among these, only the first 250 pieces, including this watch, were manufactured without the “King Midas” engraving on the side of the case, making them exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors. The dial is equally distinctive, featuring the unusual placement of the “Swiss” signature at 12 o’clock beneath the Rolex logo, rather than the conventional 6 o’clock position. This layout corresponds exactly to the dial design shown in Rolex advertisements, further confirming the watch’s early production status and enhancing its historical significance within the King Midas series. A remarkable combination of pioneering design, historical importance, limited production, and distinctive dial configuration, this King Midas reference 9630 No. 003 represents a highly desirable opportunity for collectors of Rolex’s most sculptural and iconic creations.
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LUGANO
Villa Principe Leopoldo, Via Montalbano 5
3 June - From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
GENEVA
Beau-Rivage, Quai du Mont-Blanc 13
9 May - From 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
10 May - From 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM