Rolex King Midas First Series 18k Yellow with Rosé Oxidation Patina Ref. 9630 King Midas First Series 18k Yellow with Rosé Oxidation

Rolex King Midas Ref. 9630 First Series – 18k Yellow Gold with Rosé Oxidation Patina Few watches embody Rolex’s most daring creative period like the King Midas. Introduced in the mid-1960s as a radical departure from traditional round dress watches, the Ref. 9630 was the very first King Midas ever produced—limited to just 1,000 pieces. This is not merely a watch; it is a sculptural statement cast in solid gold, inspired by mythology, architecture, and excess. This particular example belongs to the coveted first series, identifiable by the absence of “King Midas” engraving on the side of the case and by the earliest generation of the heavy integrated bracelet construction. It represents the purest expression of the model as originally conceived. The First King Midas – Limited to 1,000 Pieces Reference 9630 marked Rolex’s first numbered limited edition. Of the 1,000 pieces produced: • 856 in 18k yellow gold • 144 in 18k white gold The example offered here is number 058, an exceptionally low production number that further enhances its collectability. While later King Midas models evolved into what would become the Cellini line, the 9630 remains the most desirable and historically significant iteration—bold, architectural, and uncompromising. Case & Patina – From Yellow Gold to Rosé Warmth Crafted entirely in solid 18k yellow gold, the case remains unpolished, preserving its original geometry and strong edges. The watch was stored for decades in a bank vault by the family of its original owners. Over time, the gold has developed a remarkable natural oxidation, shifting into a deeper, warmer tone with a subtle rosé hue. This unique coloration gives the watch a distinctive presence rarely seen on standard yellow gold examples. The case measures under 5mm thick, astonishingly slim considering its massive gold construction. At launch, the King Midas was reputedly the heaviest gold watch on the market, weighing approximately 200 grams. Architecture on the Wrist Worn crown-up, the King Midas resembles the Greek Parthenon perched on the Acropolis. The bracelet links evoke architectural columns, while the sharp peak at 9 o’clock mirrors a classical triangular pediment. The design references its mythological namesake—King Midas, whose touch turned everything to gold. Fittingly, the watch was offered exclusively in precious metal. The integrated bracelet is part of the sculpture itself: non-removable, fluid, and perfectly balanced. Despite its weight, the distribution around the wrist makes it surprisingly comfortable to wear. This bracelet measures approximately 19cm, a rare and desirable length. Dial & Crystal The watch features a 14k yellow gold Cellini dial, most likely replaced at some point during its lifetime. The dial remains harmonious with the overall design and retains the refined elegance characteristic of the King Midas aesthetic. Small marks consistent with age may be visible depending on the light. The King Midas was also the first Rolex to feature a sapphire crystal, a groundbreaking innovation at the time. Movement – Rolex Calibre 650 Inside beats the manual-wind Rolex Calibre 650, recently fully serviced by our watchmaker and keeping excellent time. Cultural Significance The King Midas occupies a unique place in Rolex history. It was: • The first numbered limited edition Rolex • The first Rolex with a sapphire crystal • One of the most radical designs ever produced by the brand The model also carries cultural resonance, having been famously worn by Elvis Presley, further cementing its mythic status. Key Details Model: Rolex King Midas Reference: 9630 Series: First Series (no side engraving) Limited Production: 1,000 pieces Number: 058 Case: 18k Yellow Gold with Rosé Oxidation Patina Bracelet: Integrated 18k Yellow Gold Bracelet Length: ~19cm Dial: 14k Yellow Gold Cellini Dial (likely replacement) Crystal: Sapphire Movement: Rolex Calibre 650, manual wind, fully serviced Condition: Unpolished case, strong edges, natural patina Why This Watch? The Rolex King Midas Ref. 9630 is Rolex at its most audacious—architectural, mythological, and unapologetically extravagant. This low-numbered first-series example, preserved for decades and now displaying a rare rosé-toned patina across its untouched gold surfaces, represents an exceptional collector’s piece. Sculpture. Myth. Solid gold.