Rolex Cellini: Overview & Key Specifications
The Rolex Cellini is a very different watch compared to sports models like the Daytona or the Submariner. Let’s first discuss the history of this unique model.
Model Description and Naming
Rolex named the model after Benvenuto Cellini. He was a famous Italian goldsmith and sculptor from the Renaissance period. The watch’s name was very deliberate because it tells you that this model is about art and elegance. The Cellini was the only true “dress watch” in the Rolex catalog for a long time. While other watches used the waterproof “Oyster” case, the Cellini model focused on refined shapes.
In addition, Rolex standardized the look of this model into a very clean, beautiful, and round design in 2014. However, the company discontinued the entire collection around 2023. Instead, it launched the new “Perpetual 1908” line. That’s the reason we call Cellini “a piece of history.”
Technical Specifications
When we look at the modern era of Cellini, such as watches/models produced between 2014 and 2023, we see that these models share specific technical details. Unlike the vintage watches that came in squares or rectangles, such as the King Midas or Prince, the modern Cellini looks very uniform.
- Case Size: All Cellini watches have a 39mm case diameter, which is the standard size and fits most wrists comfortably under a shirt cuff.
- Material: You will not find a steel Cellini because Rolex made these watches in precious metals like 18k white gold or the company’s own 18k Everose gold, which does not lose color.
- Bezel: Cellini has a very nice detail in the double bezel. One part is smooth, and the other part is ridged. So, it catches the light in a very subtle manner.
- Case Back: The Cellini Model has a domed case back with polished finishing.
- Water Resistance: It is waterproof up to 50 meters or 165 feet. So, this seems fine for washing hands or rain. But you can’t wear this watch for swimming.
- Movement: The Rolex Cellini watch uses in-house automatic movements, which are Superlative Chronometer certified. Therefore, the model is accurate -2 / +2 seconds per day.
Main Variants
Unlike the Datejust watches, the Cellini model does not focus on complex mechanisms. However, these watches still come in different versions. For example, the 505xx series is the most recognized version today, and they almost always come on an alligator leather strap in black, brown, or blue colors. There is also a gold pin buckle.
- Cellini Time: It is the simplest version and has three hands, such as hours, minutes, and seconds. The dial has a very sharp “Rayon Flamme de la Gloire” Guilloche pattern.
- Cellini Date: These watches use a small sub-dial at 3 o’clock to show the date instead of a window with a magnifying lens or Cyclops. So, this looks much cleaner.
- Cellini Dual Time: Our experts at Watch Maestro recommend these watches to travelers because they have a sub-dial at 6 o’clock showing a second time zone. In addition, these watches have ha a small sun/moon symbol for day and night.
- Cellini Moonphase: These models have a blue enameled disc at 6 o’clock with a piece of real meteorite representing the full moon. It also uses a pointer date hand with a crescent moon tip. The Moonphase is the flagship Cellini model.
Rolex Cellini Prices: Retail vs Secondary Market
Retail and secondary market prices have massive differences. Let us take a look at the data.
Secondary Market Price Overview
The market for Cellini watches is quite different from sports watches. For instance, you pay a premium when you buy a steel Rolex. However, the secondary market price for Cellini is usually lower than the original retail price. Remember, this factor has changed slightly because Rolex has discontinued this model.
Buying a pre-owned Cellini offers good value, but the price depends on the condition. For example, a full set with box papers is very important here. Collectors expect the box and papers to be in good condition because these are dress watches. The value drops significantly if the leather strap is worn out or the gold case has deep scratches. The Moonphase model usually has the highest value because it is very unique and uses meteorites.
Official Retail Price List
We can’t highlight the official retail price for Cellini because Rolex has discontinued the collection. However, we have mentioned the last known prices in AED.
| Model Reference | Model Name | Last Known Retail Prices in AED |
| 50535 | Cellini Moonphase (Everose) | Approx. 107,100 |
| 50525 | Cellini Dual Time (Everose) | Approx. 71,000 |
| 50519 | Cellini Date (White Gold) | Approx. 65,000 |
| 50505 | Cellini Time (Everose) | Approx. 56,000 |
Rolex Cellini as an Investment
The Cellini is not the best choice if you are looking for a watch that produces quick profits. Our years of experience show that Cellini is an average piece for investment. However, we have also experienced that the model retains its value.
Supply is capped because Rolex does not make these watches anymore. We have seen the Moonphase model actually go up in value because it is the only modern model with a Moonphase complication. Cellini models come in solid gold, and this material has an intrinsic value unlike most steel watches.
There is a niche group of collectors who prefer dress watches. We believe that the elegant 39mm Cellini will see more appreciation when the trend shifts from sports watches in the future.
Authenticity, Certification & Warranty
Checking a Cellini watch is slightly different than checking a Rolex Submariner. First, check the gold and see whether it is 18k. Make sure the hallmarks are sharp and clear. These are small stamps on the back of the lugs.
Next comes the Dial. Check the printing on the Cellini dial to see if it is crisp. Look at the meteorite on the Moonphase model. It must look like natural rock texture. The watch is fake if it feels like a printed flat image. Besides, look for the tiny Rolex crown etched into the glass on modern versions launched after 2004. You can find the crown etched into the glass at the 6 o’clock position. Remember, it is extremely difficult to see the crown without a loupe.
All modern Cellini models are Superlative Chronometers, which means they went through COSC and then came back to Rolex for even harder testing. The purpose is to ensure the watch runs within -2 to +2 seconds per day. Most Cellini watches sold after 2015 came with the Green Seal tag and a 5-year international warranty. Rolex discontinued the line in 2023, which means if you have bought a Cellini in 2023, you still have a warranty until 2028. If you buy this watch from us at Watch Maestro, we give you a limited one-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind.
