Using Raman spectroscopy to study the correlated -electron metal , we observe pronounced excitations at 220 meV and 240 meV with and symmetries, respectively. We identify them as transitions between the spin-orbit multiplets of the Rh ions, in close analogy to the spin-orbit excitons in the Mott insulators and . This observation provides direct evidence for the unquenched spin-orbit coupling in . A quantitative analysis of the data reveals that the tetragonal crystal field in has a sign opposite to that in insulating , which enhances the planar orbital character of the effective wave function. This supports a metallic ground state, and suggests that -axis compression of may transform it into a quasi-two-dimensional antiferromagnetic insulator.