rolex king midas 3580 | Rolex king midas bracelet

The Rolex King Midas 3580 stands as a testament to Rolex's willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of design in the 1970s. Following the groundbreaking ref. 9630, the 3580 continued the legacy of the King Midas line, offering a unique and distinctive aesthetic that set it apart from the brand's more traditional offerings. Both models, steeped in history and shrouded in an aura of exclusivity, represent a fascinating chapter in Rolex's story. This article delves into the intricacies of the Rolex King Midas 3580, exploring its design, history, value, and place within the broader context of Rolex's history and the luxury watch market.

A Brief History: From Mythical King to Asymmetrical Timepiece

The Rolex King Midas owes its name and design inspiration to the mythical King Midas of Greek legend, known for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold. This connection to opulence and transformation is evident in the watch's solid gold construction and its unconventional, asymmetrical design.

The first King Midas, the reference 9630, launched in the 1960s, was a bold statement. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, the man also responsible for iconic designs like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus, the 9630 was a radical departure from Rolex's typical, more conservative designs. Its asymmetrical case, sculpted from a single block of gold, was unlike anything Rolex had produced before. Production was limited to just 1,000 pieces, cementing its status as a rare and desirable collector's item.

The Rolex King Midas 3580 followed in the 1970s, continuing the King Midas legacy. While sharing the same DNA of an asymmetrical design and solid gold construction, the 3580 possessed its own unique nuances. The 3580, like its predecessor, was also produced in limited quantities, further adding to its collectibility. The exact production numbers for the 3580 are not as clearly documented as the 9630, adding to the mystique surrounding this particular reference.

Design and Features: A Closer Look at the King Midas 3580

The Rolex King Midas 3580 shares several key characteristics with the original 9630, but also presents its own distinct features:

* Asymmetrical Case: The defining feature of the King Midas is its asymmetrical case. The 3580 maintains this distinctive shape, though subtle variations may exist in the curvature and angles compared to the 9630. The case is designed to be worn on the left wrist, with the crown positioned on the left side, partially recessed into the case. This design element contributes to the watch's unique appearance and sets it apart from traditional watches.

* Solid Gold Construction: Both the case and the integrated bracelet of the King Midas 3580 are crafted from solid gold, typically 18k yellow gold. The use of gold reinforces the connection to the mythical King Midas and underscores the watch's status as a luxury item. The weight of the watch is considerable, a tangible reminder of the precious metal from which it is made.

* Integrated Bracelet: The bracelet is seamlessly integrated into the case, creating a cohesive and elegant design. The links of the bracelet are typically solid gold, further contributing to the watch's substantial weight and luxurious feel. The bracelet design can vary slightly between different examples of the 3580, with some featuring more intricate link patterns than others.

* Simple Dial: The dial of the King Midas 3580 is typically minimalist, reflecting the overall design philosophy of understated elegance. It often features simple hour markers, often batons, and a clean, uncluttered layout. The Rolex crown logo is prominently displayed at the 12 o'clock position. Some variations of the 3580 may feature different dial colors or textures, though these are relatively rare.

* Manual Winding Movement: The King Midas 3580 is powered by a manual-winding movement, in contrast to the automatic movements found in many other Rolex models. This choice of movement reflects the King Midas's focus on design and aesthetics rather than purely practical considerations. The manual winding mechanism requires the wearer to wind the watch regularly to keep it running, adding a tactile element to the ownership experience.rolex king midas 3580

* Limited Production: As previously mentioned, the Rolex King Midas 3580 was produced in limited quantities. While the exact number is not definitively known, it is generally accepted that the 3580 is a relatively rare watch, making it a sought-after collector's item. The scarcity of the 3580 contributes to its value and desirability among watch enthusiasts.

The Allure of the Rolex King Midas Bracelet

The bracelet of the Rolex King Midas is an integral part of its overall design and appeal. It is not merely a functional component but a carefully crafted element that complements the asymmetrical case and reinforces the watch's luxurious character.