1981 Rolex King Midas Cellini Hobnail Dial Unpolished Ref. 4312/8 (with Papers)

Rolex King Midas Cellini ‘Clous de Paris’

The Rolex King Midas is one of the most unusual and luxurious lines in Rolex history, exclusively crafted in gold and born during the golden age of watchmaking in the 1960s–1970s. Originally launched as a stand-alone collection and later absorbed into the Cellini family, it represents Rolex at its most daring — where artistry and experimentation met uncompromising craftsmanship.

The Cellini line itself, named after Renaissance goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini, was Rolex’s dedicated dress watch range, competing with the likes of Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Piaget. Produced in small runs, Cellinis offered extraordinary cases, exotic dials, and jewelry-inspired bracelets. Like all Cellinis of the era, the King Midas was made exclusively in solid 18K gold.

This particular 1981 Ref. 4312 is a standout example. The square case — sharp, architectural, and instantly recognizable — is in like-new condition with its original reference sticker still partly intact. Crisp hallmarks confirm its authenticity and preservation. Despite its compact 25 mm size, the geometry gives it remarkable presence on the wrist.
The star of the show is the champagne dial, decorated with an exquisite hobnail “Clous de Paris” pattern, paired with contrasting black hands for perfect legibility. Its elegance flows seamlessly into the integrated mesh bracelet, which mirrors the dial’s decoration, offering a silky, luxurious feel on the wrist. The clasp also carries the Clous de Paris motif, along with the correct hallmarks.

Remarkably, this watch appears to have been worn little, if at all — the bracelet remains unsized, and the overall condition is pristine even after 40 years. Sold in Switzerland in 1985 and accompanied by its original warranty certificate, this Ref. 4312 is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most spectacular Cellini creations ever produced — a bold statement of refinement and taste.