THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 3833
YEAR: 1973
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 31MM
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND

In the 1960s, the Rolex Cellini line was quietly introduced under the leadership of René-Paul Jeanneret. Named after the Italian sculptor Benvenuto Cellini, the collection focused on elegant, dressy watches, mostly in precious metals. It’s fair to say that, over six decades later, the Cellini remains one of the most overlooked and least recognisable collections among Rolex’s more famous siblings. Over the years, the only Rolex ambassadors regularly seen wearing one were perhaps Phil Mickelson, as he was battling his gambling addiction and sometimes Tiger Woods. Aside from a few standout models such as the Midas (which isn’t exactly representative of the Cellini line), most of these dressier offerings can still be had for fantastic value.

The reference 3833 we have here dates back to 1973, although you wouldn’t be able to tell when holding it. The 31 mm 18k gold case wears beautifully even on 19–20 cm wrists, with a silhouette reminiscent of a Patek reference 96. The watch has only been worn sparingly over the past 50-odd years. There are light marks on the case, along with some oxidation—often seen on watches that have spent most of their lives sitting in a box. The serial number and Rolex crown are etched on the caseback, and as sharp as day 1. The dial has developed an even patina, with some light marks around the 2 to 4 o’clock markers.

The movement came to us in great health, running at +5 s/day, with an amplitude of 261° and a beat error of 0.3 ms. It comes complete with its original inner and outer boxes, booklet, wallet, and original guarantee. The original buckle is still present. 

Amazingly, it can still be had for less than any modern Rolex models from an AD.