Cellini, known as the classic collection of Rolex, released a pair of brand new models after a complete face lift of the entire Cellini line launched during the Baselworld 2014. This makes the collection, described by the authorities, as the most successful "dress watch" Rolex model of recent years.
Until 2014, the Cellini Collection, perhaps one of the least viewed pages of the Rolex catalogs, had a sub-collection known as the Prince. This being the only transparent case-back model of the brand, in addition to its rectangular shaped case. The model was hardly enthusiastic, except for users who liked the classic dress watches, and had difficulties in meeting both visual and technical expectations among the brand’s other model groups.
The new Cellini collection, which was introduced at Baselworld 2014, changed the fate of the model family as we know it. Designed with a modern case diameter of 39mm, the new series brings together technical features that can be considered extraordinary for Rolex, as well as a completely revised dial and a set of hands.
2016 Rolex Cellini Dual Time Brown Dial / Everose Gold ref. 50525
In the revived Rolex Cellini collection, there are three different models. Starting with a time-only model, the new series featured a Dual Time version, which can display a second time slot, as well as another model with time and date functions. An interesting aspect of the Dual Time function, which is a very ambitious update compared to the model family’s past collections, was that the brand used a different design rather than employing the one used in the GMT Master II series. Despite the important innovations applied, the new Cellini collection, which does not compromise the classic character, has been sold in 18K white and Everose (pink) gold case alternatives, with only black or white dial options. The chocolate and blue dial alternatives included in the collection at Baselworld 2016, gave the series a novel touch.
The Dual Time model, considered the flagship version of the series, is the first of the subject models in our review. The timepiece is offered in a 39mm case made of 18K Everose featuring the newly included chocolate tone dial. The chocolate dial perfectly matches the Everose’s unique tone, which resembles a light copper color, and directly affects the wrist presence of the watch. The surface of the quill in Guilloche style is balanced by the effect of the classic "Rayon flammé de la gloire" pattern. The indexes and hands on the dial are also prepared from Everose under the concept.
The dial lay out and the functions share the same platform as introduced in 2014. Unlike the GMT Master II model, the second time-zone feature, which is a separate sub-dial, is extremely stylish and functional with great legibility and an elegant display. The second time-zone indicator, which is set by the single winding crown, moves in one hour intervals. Day / Night schedule can also be monitored through the miniature window placed inside the lower sub-dial at 6 o’clock.
At the heart of the timepiece is the brand’s own design, the Caliber Ref. 3180. The 28800vph self-winding mechanism offers up to 48 hours of power reserve when fully wound. This mechanism is offered with a warranty period of 5 years, same as all models that the brand has recently produced.
The new model features a crocodile skin brown strap and a buckle made from Everose gold in line with the case.
Rolex Cellini Date Blue Dial / White Gold ref. 50519
The other Cellini model is the newly added blue dial version known as the Cellini Date. The model is presented in an 18K white gold case measuring 39mm in diameter and a stunning blue dial configuration. When the subject is Rolex, the blue dials have their own places ... Widely known with the yellow Rolesor (stainless steel / 18K yellow gold in the Rolex lingo) Submariner model, blue dial Rolex models achieved its own fan group through the years. On the surface, the Guilloche pattern is given again as it is in the chocolate model. The blue dial, showing color changes according to the angle of light, is accompanied by 18K hands and indices.
In the technical sense, the date function, which is the only extra feature, is prepared in the same infrastructure as the previous versions, and is shown in a separate lower screen with a pointer instead of the usual window design. This stylish display, which adds a special atmosphere to the dress watch models, obviously looks pretty neat in the Cellini Date model.
The model is powered with the in-house Caliber Ref.3165. The self winding movement beats at 28800vph and offers up to 48 hours of power reserve when fully wound.
The model is presented with a crocodile skin strap in blue tones that is compatible with the dial color, and a buckle made of 18K white gold.
As I pointed out at the beginning of the article, the Cellini family seemed to disrupt their long silence with brand new models that contain extremely important updates. Even in a concept that is not open to newness like a “dress watch”, and does not offer a lot of alternatives in terms of design, Rolex deserves praise for its innovative and aesthetic novelties.
We would like to thank the Rhodium Family for giving us the chance to review the new Rolex Cellini collection.
