Rolex Cellini 5241 ‘Ice-Blue’

One of the most understated Rolex.

Unlike the usual suspect from the Rolex line-up, the Cellini collection is inspired by the Italian sculptor Benvenuto Cellini for its soft curvature, refined lines and bevelled edges as seen in his work.

The inception for Cellini is a new direction for Rolex, mainly diversifying its premise of designing one specific reference for a particular purpose and reversing its ‘tool watch’ perception, in attempt to spread the influences on purpose-driven dress watches amongst the high horological houses at the time. In contrary to the sports pieces, the Cellini emphasises pure aesthetics in comparison to utilitarian goals.

Unconventional, attentive and bold - the Cellini collection began to expand from the 1970s under the hands of Genta and approached the millennium with a distinct execution. The recent generation features an extruded and bevelled platinum case, offset ice-blue dial with small seconds display and arrow hands. The ice-blue tone is reminiscent of the infamous Platinum Cosmograph Daytona and although both are highly different in its purpose, one tend to think of the Reference 5241 as an extension or evening pairing its relative. I think the reference 5241 in this colour setting is significantly under-appreciated and deserves much attention.

While the future for Cellini line-up remains mystical and uncertain, this model combines both vintage and modern cues of a dress watch without compromising its attraction. The ice-blue Cellini could be a perfect match for an alternative blue-tie event or casual stroll along the beach.