Discussion
Blomman Mr Blue's 2015 post provocatively asks if the Rolex Cellini is a 'non-Rolex Rolex,' challenging traditional perceptions of the brand. This article explores the community's diverse reactions to the Cellini line, examining its distinct aesthetic, market positioning, and whether it successfully integrates into Rolex's sports watch-dominated identity. Blomman's initial observations provide a compelling starting point for a discussion on Rolex's venture into dress watches.
Hi,
I know we mostly talk about Sports watches and vintage Rolex here...
But I like to post some fresh shots of the Cellini line!
To me the Cellini line is the “forgotten” son of Rolex. Not often see or discussed, not many ask about it either…
And when Cellini is mentioned, often it is the Prince model, due to its rectangular shape it stands out more from the others…
On Rolex home page they write “Elegance and Nobility”. When I read that I smiled, I smiled because that is not two words that come to my mind when I think Rolex!
When I think Rolex, I think tool watch, sports watch, Oyster, patina… But that is maybe not that strange since I am mostly looking at vintage Rolex watches.
Only time I would use “Elegance” is together with words like “raw” or “sporty”… And “Nobility”? Na, not even close to my picture of Rolex!
That is why I like to revisit brands and look at their entire collection! To get reminded, but also to get a feeling of where they are heading.
“Elegance and Nobility”
Yes, when I look at the new Cellini line, I understand more where these words come from.
Cellini Date, Rose Gold:
The 39 mm case, sensual rounded lugs, the multi layered bezel… All very elegant! The Guilloche pattern that starts from the center of the dial and all the way on to the bezel.
Applied index, Date dial at three. The pattern from the bezel is reflected on the back as well…
Notice the non-Rolex characteristic crown.
To me, this is a very non-Rolex Rolex. Yes, it is a Rolex, but no, it doesn’t look like a Rolex.
Cellini Dual Time, White Gold:
Dual time at six. Day/night indicator included in the dual time dial at nine. If you look closely you see the Sun just coming out.
I see the Rolex crown, but is the only thing telling me that this is a Rolex. The dauphin hands are another detail that is not very Rolex-like…
The case back is rounded; I get a bit of “bubble back” resemblance here. A bit surprised to see the case back clean without even an engraving. I was not expecting a see through case back, but would have expected it to at least say Rolex on the back…
What do I think about the new Cellini line?
Well, to me it IS a very elegant watch line! Nobel? I am not sure, but I may not be the right person to recognize nobility…
The line also has a time only version, plus the Prince. All in all I think Rolex have made some good efforts to make a more classic elegant watch! The dual time I really like!
But in the making a lot of what is “Rolex” to me was lost…
When I see these watches I do think “very nice looking watch”… But I don’t think “very nice looking Rolex”!
All this is of course my very personal view…
What’s your view?
Best
Blomman
This message has been edited by blomman on 2015-02-12 04:14:44Blomman, lovely review here of what is a non-Rolex Rolex. I think it is fair to say that Rolex did not make its reputation on the back of elegance and artistry. Complications too, are a relative rarity. But you are correct, the Cellini line does offer a certain style and elegance. I have a view on why it does noir gain more popular support. Take the Posche lion of cars. Posche made its name as a highly reliable sports car. When they released their 4-wheel drive supposedly off-road line, it just
An alternative offer to the most and better known Professional line. The GMT is not bad looking at all. The cases are very nice, even if the Prince should be thinner. Best, Nicolas
It may take some time to warm up. I played with all three models last year and I was impressed much to my surprise. The element that remained constant with their sports models in the new Cellini line is practicality. The bubble back, water resistance and sturdiness of this elegant line make the watch a daily user. Some may say this is a failure, because to successfully introduce a dress watch to be taken seriously they needed to take more risks and dare to more different, whereas some will say i
And I think that given time, it will be accepted, although not in big enough numbers as their Oyster models, simply because they're not known for dress watches like these and the field in this space are filled with competitors whose heritage is based on this design language - maybe it's just me, but I also think that in general, purchases of dress watches do expect to see a great and well finished movement on the back. Personally, I would wear them, if the hands were a little longer...I don't re
But I like Cellini line and especially Price the most! Maybe because they are non-sport watches. Prince is the Rolex I would like to have it. Thanks for bringing this subject into discussion. Constantin
again :) my friend Non-Rolex Rolex couldn't put it better or it is Rolex only it says on the dial it is Rolex :) Maybe one day this will be highly sought after pieces today not bright future Elegant yes noble not really Thank you for very interesting post and another angle on most looked after watch brand in Google :) Yours D
This thread is active on the Rolex forum with 31 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →
