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1990 Rolex Cellini 2722 - 18K Yellow Gold, Pavé Diamond Dial

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A Statement In Solid Gold And Diamonds

The Cellini line has always been Rolex's platform for pure elegance, a space where watchmaking merges with the art of the jeweler. This piece from 1990 is a perfect expression of that philosophy. It's crafted from solid 18K yellow gold, featuring a factory pavé diamond dial and diamond bezel. 

Heavy Gold, Seamless Design

What distinguishes this Cellini is its fully integrated design. The 18K yellow gold bracelet flows directly from the case, creating an unbroken and seamless look on the wrist. With a weight of 89 grams, it feels as significant as it looks. The oval case, framed by the diamond bezel, provides the perfect canvas for the pavé dial, resulting in a watch that is both a timepiece and a substantial piece of fine jewelry.

Excellent Condition For Its Age

The unpolished 18K yellow gold case and integrated bracelet are in very good condition, showing signs of light wear consistent with a piece from this era. The factory-set pavé dial is clean, and all diamonds in the dial and bezel are intact and present. The integrated bracelet is well-maintained and wears comfortably. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.

A Wristwatch As Fine Jewelry

This is for someone who wants a watch that functions as a piece of jewelry, prioritizing the feeling of solid gold and diamonds on the wrist. The manual-wind movement adds a layer of intention, requiring a daily interaction that connects the owner to the piece. It's a confident choice for formal events or for someone who appreciates the unapologetic luxury of the early 90s.

Key Specs

Reference: 2722

Model: Cellini

Year: 1990

Movement: Manual

Bezel: Factory Diamond

Bracelet: 18K Yellow Gold Integrated

Dial: Pavé Diamond

Metal: 18K Yellow Gold

Weight: 89g

Bracelet Length: 6.75in

SKU: 716

History

The Cellini line represents Rolex's venture into elegant dress watches distinct from its utilitarian tool models. Officially introduced in the 1960s and named after the 16th-century Florentine goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini, the collection was conceived to position Rolex in the luxury dress watch arena alongside the great Geneva manufacturers. The line eschewed the waterproof Oyster case in favour of slimmer, non-water-resistant designs crafted in gold or platinum, with early models offering refined, minimalist dials and elegant cases intended for formal wear.

Throughout its history the Cellini collection has been a canvas for experimentation. The early 1960s produced the King Midas, an asymmetrical watch designed by Gérald Genta that showcased avant-garde styling at its most extreme. Subsequent decades introduced rounded designs like the Danaos and Cestello and a variety of dial textures, from guilloché to lacquer. Because the line was unbound by the constraints of tool-watch functionality, designers could explore artistic forms and decorative finishes that the Oyster case would never have accommodated.

Collectors view the Cellini as an expression of Rolex's craftsmanship beyond rugged sports watches. The watches' emphasis on aesthetics over technical features appeals to those seeking a pure dress watch with the reliability of a Rolex movement. Although the Cellini has not enjoyed the same mainstream attention as the Datejust or Submariner, it remains important for illustrating the brand's breadth and ambition. For the collector who already owns the expected Rolex pieces, the Cellini represents the road less taken — a refined, precious metal watch that rewards knowledge rather than recognition.

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!