Rolex has launched its new Padellone watch at Milan's historic Palazzo Serbelloni, marking a significant shift as the Swiss brand chooses the Italian fashion capital over traditional watch hubs. CEO Jean-Frédéric Dufour explained the decision, noting the watch's Italian nickname origins and Rolex's strong historical ties to Italy, where success in the 1970s and 1980s predicted global performance. The Padellone, priced from £49,150 to £60,700, revives a 1940s triple calendar moonphase model (Ref 8171) nicknamed "large frying pan" by Italian collectors.

Available in 18-carat Everose gold or 950 platinum with a 39mm case, it features a meteorite moonphase disc with whimsical human faces and joins the 1908 model in the Perpetual collection. Technically, it debuts the new calibre 7190 with a "Haplos system" annual calendar requiring adjustment only once yearly. The launch coincides with increased high-end watch activity in Milan, including LVMH's watch week and Patek Philippe's upcoming Grand Exhibition on October 2, signaling the city's growing importance in horology.