Rolex King Midas WG ref.4315 3st Series de 1976
Rolex King Midas WG ref.4315 3st Series de 1976
The King Midas was presented in 1962 as a limited edition and was designed by Gerald Genta in the shape of the Greek Pantheon, hence the asymmetric design of the watch that simulates the design of the Pantheon and its columns. Interestingly, the crown was placed on the left side to represent Midas, who turned everything he touched with his left hand into gold according to the stories of Greek Mythology. The watch has a heavy weight, almost 166 grams of solid gold which caused this piece to be priced one third more than a Day-date when it was released.
The reference. 4315 is the original King Midas watch but with functional improvements, this new reference incorporated removable links and a much more comfortable deployant clasp than the first generation, as well as a thinner and better articulated bracelet.
This reference is commonly thought to have started production in 1977 but this watch is living proof to the contrary, the first 4315 watches are from 1976.
One of the most impressive aspects of King Midas is the production method, each piece carefully crafted by highly skilled goldsmiths which of course makes each model slightly different in terms of weight and finish.
The sawtooth crown is located on the left side due to the mythology mentioned above, that everything King Midas touched with his left hand turned to gold. The crown is also designed to represent the sun over the Greek temple, ( viewed horizontally).
The White Gold Asymmetrical King Midas is one of the rarest watches ever produced by Rolex, collectors believe that less than 350 pieces where ever produced between the three reference models.
Brand: Rolex
Model: King Midas
Reference: 4315
Year of manufacture: 1976
Serial Number: 4,266xxx. No. 33xx
Material: 18k gold
Dimensions: 28mm
Crystal Material: Sapphire
Machinery Type: Cal.650
Extensible measurement: 25mm
Bracelet: two additional removable links
Mechanical Operation Warranty: 6 Months
Comments: The watch is in optimal mechanical and aesthetic conditions.