Bidspirit auction | Rolex: King Midas

Rolex: King Midas - ROLEX King Midas. Type of Watch: Wristwatch. Origin: Switzerland, Geneva. Date: 1971. Movement: Manual winding, cal. 650. Case/Wristband: 750/- white gold, link watchband, double folding clasp, dial and hands silver. Total Weight: Ca. 201 g. Measurement: Ø 28 x 27 mm, length 19 cm. Case No.: 2724874. Reference No.: 9630. Description: 2-hand wristwatch. The watch was restored at Rolex's Swiss headquarters for €4,000. Rolex King Midas Ref. 9630 - One of the most extraordinary Rolex watches. The Rolex King Midas Ref. 9630 is one of the most unusual and, at the same time, most fascinating models ever produced by Rolex. Whilst the brand is primarily known for sporting icons such as the Submariner or Daytona, the King Midas represents a completely different side of the manufacturer: an experimental, luxurious design piece crafted from solid gold, inspired by ancient mythology and classical architecture. The Reference 9630 is now regarded as one of the rarest vintage Rolex watches and as a significant milestone in the oeuvre of the legendary designer Gérald Genta. The King Midas was developed in the early 1960s and first unveiled in 1962. It remained in production until around 1972, before the model was later integrated into the Cellini line. The Reference 9630 is the first and most original version of this model series. A total of around 800 pieces were produced, although a series of approximately 1,000 was originally planned. The watch was created at a time when Rolex wanted to develop extremely luxurious models alongside its sporty tool watches. At the time, the King Midas was even sold at a higher price than the Rolex Day-Date - around 30% above the price of the brand's top model at the time. This made it the most expensive Rolex of all in the 1960s. The design of the King Midas differs radically from almost all other Rolex watches. The design draws inspiration from Greek mythology and architecture, particularly from temples such as the Parthenon. The name refers to King Midas, a figure from Greek mythology who, according to legend, turned everything he touched into gold. Rolex deliberately drew on this story - for the watch itself is made entirely of solid gold. Probably the most famous King Midas belonged to rock 'n' roll star Elvis Presley. He received his watch (number 343) in 1970 following several concerts at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. This watch is now on display in the museum at his Graceland estate. Box: Yes. Papers: No. Accessories: Yes. Service certificate with invoice from 13th December 2025, original Rolex service card.