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Rolex, in the 1970s, had a split personality. On one side, tool watches built for oceans, racetracks, and expeditions. On the other, something far more expressive. The Cellini line was where Rolex stepped away from utility and focused on design, proportion, and material in a way that feels almost un-Rolex at first glance. The name comes from Benvenuto Cellini, a Renaissance goldsmith and sculptor, which tells you exactly where their head was at.
The dial is the reason you’re here.
This is burlwood. Real wood, cut and set into a watch case. The grain moves in soft, unpredictable swirls, with darker pockets and lighter streaks that shift depending on the light. It has depth that’s hard to replicate. Like stone dials, no two examples ever come out the same, which makes this one feel personal right away.
Against that surface, Rolex kept everything in check. The applied crown, the printed signature, the “Cellini” script sitting low. Nothing competing for attention, just enough to frame what’s already there.
The case follows through. An elongated tonneau shape in 18k yellow gold, measuring 24.5 by 40mm, that wears longer than a traditional dress piece without feeling oversized. It sits flat, wraps cleanly, and carries a bit more presence than you’d expect at first glance.
Inside is the manual-wind calibre 1601. A thin, time-only movement Rolex used across its dress models, built for reliability and simplicity.
This example has been left alone in the right ways. The caseback still shows clear engravings, including the coronet and serial, details that are usually the first to fade. The gold hallmarks remain deep and well defined, reinforcing that it hasn’t seen much time on a polishing wheel. It comes complete with its original box and outer box, which is always a nice detail to have.
The serial dates it to 1976, right when materials like wood, stone, and other natural textures started showing up more often in design. People were moving away from uniformity and leaning into objects that felt a bit more personal. This fits neatly into that shift, just executed through Rolex’s lens.
Overall, the watch presents in excellent vintage condition with strong preservation across all components.
The 18k yellow gold case remains full with light surface wear and well-defined edges.
The burlwood dial is very well preserved with clear grain structure and slight oxidation at the one hour marker.
The caseback retains crisp engravings including the Rolex coronet and serial number, both still clearly legible.
The hands and crystal are clean and appropriate for the watch.
The leather strap shows wear consistent with age and is fitted with a Rolex-signed gold-plated buckle showing patina.
The manual-wind calibre 1601 is running well and keeping time as expected.
We are here to be your trusted source of romantic vintage watches. We stand behind the products we curate with a 100% authenticity guarantee, a 1 year warranty and a 3-day return policy to ensure you are completely satisfied with your purchase.
