The Rolex King Midas is a truly unique and rare vintage model launched in the late 1960s. It made quite a splash at the time with its bold design and lavish use of gold.
Historical Background
- Ancient Greek Mythology: The model’s name comes from King Midas, a figure in Greek mythology known for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold. True to its name, the King Midas features a substantial 18k gold case and bracelet, exuding a sense of weight and luxury.
- Designed by Gérald Genta: The King Midas was designed by the renowned watch designer Gérald Genta. He is the mastermind behind numerous iconic watches, including the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus.
- Trends of the Time: The 1960s was a period of significant transformation in the watch industry, marked by the emergence of quartz watches. In this era, the King Midas represented a pursuit of the luxury and status associated with mechanical watches.
Key Features
- Asymmetrical Case: The most distinctive feature of the King Midas is its asymmetrical case design, said to be inspired by ancient Greek architecture.
- Left-Sided Crown: The crown is positioned on the left side of the case. This thoughtful design prevents the crown from digging into the wrist of a right-handed wearer.
- Manual Winding Movement: The King Midas is equipped with a manual winding movement. While this was a common feature at the time, it adds to the watch’s rarity and appeal in today’s world of predominantly automatic watches.
- Solid 18k Gold: The case and bracelet are crafted from solid 18k gold. Their weight and brilliance truly live up to the “King” in the name.
Variations
The main variations of the King Midas include:
- Ref. 9630: Men’s model with a 36mm case size.
- Ref. 9631: Men’s model with a 41mm case size.
- Ref. 4315: Ladies’ model with a 28mm case size.
Modern-Day Appraisal
Due to its limited production and rarity, the King Midas is highly sought after by collectors. Its unique design and historical significance are expected to maintain its high value and desirability for years to come.
In Conclusion
The Rolex King Midas is a truly distinctive and exceptional model in Rolex’s history. Its bold design and rarity make it a dream watch for many enthusiasts.