Appearance isn’t everything — but when it comes to making a statement, it certainly helps.
From the bold fashion choices seen on Grammy red carpets to eye-catching outfits at the NFL and NBA drafts, standing out has always been part of the culture. And for some, the most powerful statement isn’t made with clothing at all — it’s made with what’s on their wrist.
A Rolex Watch Inspired by Mythology
The Rolex King Midas is one of the most distinctive watches the brand has ever produced. Crafted entirely from gold, its design draws heavy inspiration from Greek mythology — starting with its name.
Much like King Midas of legend, whose touch turned everything into gold, this watch was designed to embody luxury in its purest form. The case shape itself is modeled after the Greek Pantheon, and “King Midas” is engraved directly into the side of the case, leaving no question about its identity.
A Groundbreaking Rolex Design
The first model was released by Rolex in the 1960s and weighed between 150 and 200 grams due to it being made from crafted blocks of gold. This feature made the King Midas the most-expensive Rolex of its time.
One aspect that truly stands out with the King Midas is its crown. Designed to resemble the sun (atop the Pantheon), it is on the left side of the case instead of the usual right side. This makes it a natural watch for left-handed people who then can easily wear it on their right wrist and wind it seamlessly without having to contort or struggle with an angle.
The King Midas wasn’t just an expensive watch Rolex made for Joe-average people to wear. Some of the biggest and brightest stars wore the King Midas — including the King of Rock and Roll himself.
Elvis Presley is perhaps the most-famous wearer of the King Midas, wearing the yellow-gold watch (reference No. 9630) he got as an appreciation gift from his string of six sold-out shows in 1970 at the Houston Astrodome. The back of his watch was engraved to read, “To Elvis Presley From The Houston Livestock Show Officers 1970.”
Collectible vs. Common Watchpiece: The King Midas Rolex
Rolex produced only about 1,000 King Midas watches, making them extremely rare and highly collectible. Because of this limited production and their solid-gold construction, prices vary widely based on condition and provenance.
Today, listings can be found starting around $7,000, while well-preserved or historically significant models can exceed $12,000 or more.
A True Statement Piece
The Rolex King Midas isn’t just a watch — it’s a bold expression of luxury, history, and individuality. Whether you’re a collector, a fan of unconventional Rolex designs, or simply someone who appreciates watches with a story, the King Midas stands in a class all its own.
If you’re lucky enough to own one, you’re wearing more than a timepiece — you’re wearing a legend.
Mark Sirianni
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watchdoctorpa@gmail.com
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Charley
2012-2024
