Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What was the first Rolex watch?
1 Answer
There is no official first Rolex watch, as Hans Wilsdorf, the original watchmaker behind Rolex was making watches before ever branding them as Rolex. When the German-born watch dealer and his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, set up their London enterprise, in 1905, they called it Wilsdorf & Davis, according to the traditional formula. But Wilsdorf was determined to come up with another name that was short, would look good on a watch dial and was easy to say and remember in several languages. In 1908, he trademarked the name Rolex. Shop a range of vetted authentic Rolex watches from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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Shop for Rolex Watches on 1stDibs
1947 Rolex Precision Vintage Mens Claw Lugs Square Dress Watch, 14K Rose Gold SS
By Rolex
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Rose Gold, Stainless Steel
1960's Rolex Ladies Vintage Cocktail Watch - 18K White Gold & Diamonds
By Rolex
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
White Gold
ROLEX CELLINI Vintage Ladies Ref. 6691 18K Gold & Factory Diamond Watch
By Rolex
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Late 20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
White Gold
Rare Art Deco 1938 Rolex Prince 9K Solid Gold Watch Vintage
By Rolex
Located in Scotts Valley, CA
Details:
Beautiful Art Deco period solid gold Rolex Prince watch from 1938. The Prince style watch is distinguished by the second dial which displays the seconds hand. This watch has a solid 9 carat gold case, which is stamped on the interior of the case. The band is 14K two-tone yellow and rose gold, the band is not stamped but has hallmarks that are photographed. The band has been acid tested for purity in three spots, and tests at 14K Gold. This watch is keeping accurate time, and has been stored in a dry safe. This is a classic style that will fit nicely into any collection! This is a stunning piece! Please ask all necessary questions prior to placing an order!
Specs:
9K case 14K band
Style #2736 (on back)
Serial #47406 (on back)
Rolex Ref 2735 Circa 1938
Rolex Vintage Rectangular solid gold case with solid wire gold fixed lugs. This watch is manual hand winding. Face is marked Rolex with blued steel hands. Interior movement is signed Rolex 15 Rubies...
Category
Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold, 14k Gold, 9k Gold, Rose Gold
1944 Rolex Speedking Vintage Mens Midsize "Boys" WWII Oyster Watch - SS
By Rolex
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Cellini 18K Yellow Gold Watch
By Rolex
Located in Queens, NY
Rolex Cellini 18K Yellow Gold Watch, featuring champagne dial with baton indexes and 18K Rolex Crown logo at 12 0'clock, powered by 19 jewel mechanical wind-up movement, worn on wris...
Category
20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
