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1981 Rolex Cellini 5112 - White Roman Dial

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Details

A High Presence Integrated Design

The 5112 is a departure from the typical leather-strap Cellini. By using an integrated 18k yellow and white gold bracelet with a fun woven design. The lack of standard lugs means the metal flows continuously around the wrist, giving it a much larger physical presence than the on paper specifications suggest. It is a bracelet-first design that happens to house a world-class Rolex movement.

Multi Tone Metalwork And Narrative

The primary appeal of this piece lies in the complexity of the bracelet construction. Rolex used a mix of 18k white and yellow gold to create a textured, multi-tone effect that wraps seamlessly around the wrist. The white Roman dial provides a clean and legible anchor that does not compete with the intricate gold work. It is a sophisticated alternative for a collector who wants the prestige of a precious metal Rolex with a design language that feels more curated than mainstream models.

Excellent Structure With Minor Notes

This example is in very good overall condition, particularly the integrated bracelet which remains tight and structurally sound. There is some visible dirt present under the crystal that should be cleaned to restore full clarity to the dial. After passing our test bench, the manual movement is running very well after passing by our test bench. 

Sophistication On A Substantial Scale

This is a watch for someone who appreciates the finer details of 1980s Rolex design. The integrated bracelet adds a level of class and substance that a leather strap cannot provide, making it feel like a much more significant object on the wrist than its dimensions suggest. It is a discreet, high-quality dress watch that works well for formal occasions or for the wearer who prefers a jewelry-leaning timepiece. It remains a prime example of the ability of Rolex to execute jewelry-focused watchmaking with mechanical precision.

Key Specs

Reference: 5112

Model: Cellini

Year: 1981

Movement: Manual

Case Size: 32mm

Bezel: 18K YG Integrated

Bracelet: Two Tone 18K

Dial: White Roman

Wrist Size: 6-6.25in

Metal: 18K YG

Weight: 79.8

SKU: 303

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 after founder Hans Wilsdorf’s death to position Rolex in the luxury watch arena .  René‑Paul Jeanneret and later CEO André Heiniger championed the line, which eschewed the waterproof Oyster case in favour of slimmer, non‑water‑resistant designs crafted in gold or platinum .  Early Cellini models offered refined, minimalist dials and elegant cases 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.  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.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 models like the Datejust or Submariner, it remains important for illustrating the brand’s breadth.  Today’s Cellini lineup continues the tradition of refined casework and hand‑finished details, offering an understated option for collectors who appreciate Rolex’s venture into formal timekeeping.

1981 Rolex Cellini 5112 - White Roman Dial
1981 Rolex Cellini 5112 - White Roman Dial Sale price$16,500.00 USD

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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

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