The Rolex Perpetual Padellone expands the technical proposition of the Perpetual collection, paying homage to one of the most iconic references in the manufacture’s history: the historic reference 8171. This new timepiece combines the timeless elegance of classic proportions with the mechanical sophistication of an instantaneous jumping annual complete calendar and a high-precision moon phase indicator.
Tribute to the Triple Date Legend
Historically nicknamed “Padellone” (Italian for “large frying pan”) among collectors due to its oversized 38 mm case diameter for the era, the original 1949 model stood out as one of the very few Rolex timepieces featuring a complete calendar and moon phase complication. This contemporary interpretation reinterprets that architectural heritage under modern high-watchmaking technical standards.
The dial features an impeccably symmetrical layout: two aperture windows at the top for the day of the week and month, an orbital moon phase disc at 6 o’clock, and a central hand dedicated to the peripheral date track. The fine-grained texture of the dial contrasts exquisitely with the applied 18 ct gold hour markers.
- Well-Proportioned Case: A restrained 39 mm diameter with a thickness of 12.20 mm and a 20 mm lug width.
- Guaranteed Water Resistance: Oyster case construction ensuring water resistance up to 50 meters.
- Bracelet Options: Available with the new Settimo bracelet in precious metal or an alligator leather strap with a Dualclasp folding clasp.
Calibre 7190: High-Performance Mechanical Innovation
At the heart of this timepiece is the new in-house Calibre 7190, a self-winding movement engineered to bring high precision to astronomical and calendar complications:
⚙️ Calibre 7190 (High Frequency 5 Hz)
Dynapulse Escapement & Haplos Calendar System
Oscillating at 36,000 vph (5 Hz), it incorporates the Dynapulse silicon escapement, Syloxi hairspring, and Paraflex shock absorbers. Its Haplos system enables instantaneous date switching while automatically accounting for 30- and 31-day months.
Additionally, the gear train has been optimized to provide a power reserve of approximately 66 hours, earning the Superlative Chronometer certification (-2/+2 seconds per day precision after casing).
Pros & Considerations
PROS
- High-Frequency Engineering: 5 Hz movement (36,000 vph) utilizing silicon and ceramic components.
- Instantaneous Jump: Simultaneous change of date, day, and month at exact midnight powered by the Haplos module.
- Historical Heritage: Masterful revival of Ref. 8171 design cues translated into contemporary execution.
CONS
- Water resistance limited to 50 meters compared to the brand’s professional sports models.
- Strictly limited availability due to the high level of movement finishing complexity.
Comparative Technical Specifications
| Specification | 18 ct Everose Gold (Ref. 53505) | 950 Platinum (Ref. 53506) |
|---|---|---|
| Case | 18 ct Everose gold, 39 mm x 12.20 mm | 950 Platinum, 39 mm x 12.20 mm |
| Dial | Intense white, fine-grained | Ice blue, fine-grained |
| Calibre | In-house 7190 (5 Hz / 36,000 vph) | In-house 7190 (5 Hz / 36,000 vph) |
| Complications | Haplos annual calendar, moon phases, instantaneous jump | Haplos annual calendar, moon phases, instantaneous jump |
| Power Reserve | ~66 hours | ~66 hours |
| Strap / Clasp | Settimo bracelet or brown alligator leather (Dualclasp) | Matt black alligator leather (Dualclasp) |
| Water Resistance | 50 meters (5 bar) | 50 meters (5 bar) |
