IWC INGENIEUR QUARTZ REF. 9701 KHANJAR YELLOW GOLD
The focus on Omani Khanjar-signed watches often revolves around prestigious brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. However, this ornamental design can also be found on many other highly esteemed watch brands like IWC. Various models of the International Watch Company feature these customized dials, such as the Yacht Club, ladies’ dress watches with stone dials, IWC Porsche Design, and, most notably, the Ingenieur. IWC watches with the Khanjar emblem are extremely rare and sought after by collectors since they were manufactured in extremely scarce numbers. The Ingenieur SL with the Khanjar emblem is, for sure, the most sought-after IWC watch with the Oman stamp.
The present specimen is most likely one of the most exclusive IWC watches available on the market. The Ingenieur SL Quartz Reference 9701 in gold was produced in a few dozen units in the early 80s and is an extremely rare and sought-after Ingenieur, being manufactured in such low quantity. The attractiveness and rarity of this Ingenieur is further emphasized by the presence of the Oman Khanjar symbol at 9 o’clock. Just a handful of those watches are known and way less are available for purchase. The present Ingenieur was most likely requested by the Sultan of Oman in person to gift it to a very important person who distinguished himself for the services to the Sultanate. The overall condition is truly exceptional. The case is unpolished, the bracelet has no stretch, the dial is absolutely flawless, and the movement is in perfect working condition. Only a few minor signs of wear can be spotted on the case, bracelet, and glass. A true horological treasure.
Serial Number 228XXXX, Year 1980 circa, Diameter 39mm.
ROLEX KING MIDAS REF. 4611 LAPIS DIAMOND DIAL WITH DIAMOND BEZEL
The Rolex King Midas reference 4611 is a rare and highly sought-after version of the King Midas that was produced in the 1970s. It features a rectangular case design that sets it apart from the asymmetrical square case design of the earlier King Midas models. The reference 4611 King Midas is slightly different in size compared to the asymmetrical version, measuring 24x34mm. It was produced in a variety of precious metals, including 18k yellow and white gold featuring different dial types, and it’s considered to be one of the rarest Midas models manufactured by Rolex. One of the most sought-after versions of Rolex King Midas ref. 4611 is the one that comes with a diamond-set bezel and a lapis dial with outer diamonds, like the present example.
This Rolex King Midas ref. 4611 is an exceptional example of this rare and sought-after reference. Reference 4611 is one of the rarest rectangular shape Midas watches, as it was only manufactured with lapis or other special stone dials with a diamond-set bezel. Besides being an extremely rare reference, the present King Midas is exceptionally well-preserved. The case shows some light signs of wear but has most likely never been polished and retains all its original shapes and angles. The dial is perfect without any defects, and the bracelet is intact, has no stretch, and comes with all the gold stamps still present. Even the engravings on the caseback are still present and well-defined. All components are correct for the production year: MIDAS-signed dial, hidden clasp bracelet, and snapback.
Serial Number 4,167,XXX, numbered example, Year 1976.
ROLEX KING MIDAS CREAM DIAL REF. 3580 YELLOW GOLD BOX AND PAPERS
The Rolex King Midas was originally introduced in the early 60’s and was designed by the renowned Gerald Genta, who is also responsible for creating other iconic watches such as the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and Patek Philippe Nautilus. What sets the Rolex King Midas apart from other Rolex watches is its distinct and asimmetric design. Taking inspiration from ancient Greece and its mythology, Gérald Genta chose the name of King Midas for his watch. The case was made only of solid gold, which adds to its luxurious and high-end appearance. The very first King Midas was reference 9630 and it was manufactured in not even 1000 pieces in white and yellow gold. Later, other King Midas references were manufactured and they differed from the original in very small details.
The present watch is an exceptionally preserved and rare second series Rolex King Midas reference 3580. The case is most likely unpolished with sharp lines and angles. All the original engravings on caseback and case side are still present and original to the watch. The dial is of a nice creamy warn tone and has no signs of age. All components are correct for the production year : MIDAS signed dial, double fold bracelet clasp, caseback with holes.
The watch comes with original box and papers.
Serial Number 3,434,XXX , numbered example, Year 1973.
ROLEX LADY “ORCHID” YELLOW GOLD WITH BRACELET
The name “Orchid” was used by Rolex for decades for various small gold ladies’ watches, often with wacky shapes. These timepieces were made starting in the early 20th century and were designed specifically for women. The “Orchid” watches were often equipped with precious bracelets, fancy cases set with precious stones and hand-wound calibers. They feature the classic and timeless design elements Rolex is known for, combined with the smaller size and elegant aesthetic appropriate for a ladies’ watch. “Orchid” watches were produced in relatively small numbers, as they were extremely expensive and intended only for a very wealthy clientele.
The present “Orchid” is an exceptional example of these rare ladies watches made by Rolex in the early years of the 20th century. The overall condition is truly exceptional, the gold case shows a light oxidation patina, which is a testament to the extreme quality of this timepiece. The dial is in very good condition, as is the matching gold bracelet with gold hallmarks and Rolex signature. The appeal of this “Orchid” is further enhanced by a diamond set on the bezel. Together with the original Oyster shaped box, this timepiece is an exceptional watch for any woman looking for a very special jewelled watch for her collection.
ROLEX OYSTER DATE REF. 6627 31MM WHITE GOLD BRICK BRACELET
The Rolex Reference 6627 is a classic and timeless watch that has been popular with collectors and enthusiasts for decades. Made between the 1960s and 1980s, the Reference 6427 is a suit watch with a simple but elegant design that has stood the test of time. One of the most notable features of the Reference 6427 is its size. With a diameter of only 31mm, it is a smaller watch by today’s standards, but its size makes it perfect for those who prefer a more understated and traditional look.
Most 6627s were made in yellow gold, with very few made in white gold like the present example. With a white gold case, this 6627 is one of the very few that have appeared on the market. The rarity of this timepiece is further enhanced by the presence of a matching white gold brick link bracelet. Moreover, the watch itself is preserved in amazing condition. The caseback screws perfectly, and the self winding 1130 caliber functions flawlessly. The dial shows hardly any signs of wear, which is especially amazing considering that the watch is already 60 years old. All graphics are intact, and it displays a rare luminous dial with dart indices and arrow hands.
Serial number 840, XXX, year 1962, diameter 31mm.