The Return Of The
ROLEX PADELLONE
Rolex just held a special event in Milano, Italia, introducing their new model named the "ROLEX PERPETUAL PADELLONE". The image below appears courtesy of Wei Koh from Revolution and shows the name Rolex chose for this new family of moonphase models. "Padellone" translated from Italian to English is "Large Frying Pan", which is a nickname Italian collectors used for referring to the original vintage Rolex Triple Date Moonphase watches made back in the late 1940s, and early 1950s, which carried a Rolex Reference number of 8171. It's interesting to see Rolex actually adopt a commonly used nickname to use as a formal name for a model.
One could imagine it was just a matter of time before Rolex brought back their Triple-Calendar MoonPhase. In Milan, Rolex held a special event to show off three new Rolex models.
Let's start with examining the rose gold model below which comes on an alligator strap. It features a really unusual for Rolex design language domed bezel with fluting.
Next we see what is essentially the same rose gold model an a beautiful 7-link Rolex Jubilee style bracelet.
Next we see a platinum version with the ice blue dial, and notice the dial on all these new Rolex Moonphase models feature a micro bead blasted finish, which was an interesting choice.
This new model features a fascinating new annual calendar movement.
I recently completed what is arguably one of my best and most comprehensive articles I have ever written to date, and it's it covers many of the parallels between Patek Philippe's Moonphase models, as well as Rolex's Moonphase models. This subject is covered in detail in my super detailed article on PatekMagazine.com named, "REMEMBERING The Godfather of Modern Horology, Philippe Stern: The Personification of Patek Philippe 1938-2026."
I would go so far as to say my story on Philippe Stern's passing is on par with my story about Rolex's brilliant founder, Hans Wilsdorf. Speaking of great articles I have recently written, I highly recommend my article titled, "ROLEX, The Oyster & The Mermaid."
Speaking of definitive articles, if you are interested in learning all about the history of Rolex Triple Date Calendar Moonphase watches, be sure to check out my article named, "The Complete History of The Rolex Moonphase."
