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Rolex Yellow Gold Turn-o-Graph Thunderbird Wristwatch circa 1950s
Rolex Yellow Gold Turn-o-Graph Thunderbird Wristwatch circa 1950s

Rolex Yellow Gold Turn-o-Graph Thunderbird Wristwatch circa 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

The 1950s Turn-o-Graph has become known as the "Thunderbird", a nod to 1950s Air Force pilots. This

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Lady's White Gold and Diamond Watch for Serpico y Laino circa 1950s
Rolex Lady's White Gold and Diamond Watch for Serpico y Laino circa 1950s

Rolex Lady's White Gold and Diamond Watch for Serpico y Laino circa 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

This is an unbelievable example of a highly stylized vintage Rolex timepiece. Crafted entirely of

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold "Red" Datejust Ref 6105 circa 1950s
Rolex Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold "Red" Datejust Ref 6105 circa 1950s

Rolex Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold "Red" Datejust Ref 6105 circa 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

An rare example of the iconic Rolex Datejust. With 1950s watches becoming of increasing interest to

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Stainless Steel, Yellow Gold

Mens Rolex Ref 6634 Oyster Perpetual Gold Capped Automatic 1950s Vintage RA237
Mens Rolex Ref 6634 Oyster Perpetual Gold Capped Automatic 1950s Vintage RA237

Mens Rolex Ref 6634 Oyster Perpetual Gold Capped Automatic 1950s Vintage RA237

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Luxurious classic, Men's Gold-Capped Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref.6634 automatic dress watch, c.1957

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

ROLEX 1950's Oversized Stainless Steel w/ Horned Lugs

ROLEX 1950's Oversized Stainless Steel w/ Horned Lugs

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Oversized 1950's dress watch with a case as rare as it is handsome. The smooth bezel incorporates

Category

Vintage 1950s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Ladies Ruby Diamond Rose Gold Covered Wristwatch
Rolex Ladies Ruby Diamond Rose Gold Covered Wristwatch

Rolex Ladies Ruby Diamond Rose Gold Covered Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Stamford, CT

Vintage 1950's ladies Rolex covered watch with bright red genuine rubies and sparkly full cut

Category

Mid-20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, Rose Gold, Gold, 18k Gold

Rolex Rose Gold Ring Watch Ref 8309
Rolex Rose Gold Ring Watch Ref 8309

Rolex Rose Gold Ring Watch Ref 8309

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Possibly the coolest vintage Rolex, this 1950s 18 karat rose gold ring watch is in all original

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Rose Gold

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Stainless Steel Men's Watch Ref. 6084
Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Stainless Steel Men's Watch Ref. 6084

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Stainless Steel Men's Watch Ref. 6084

By Rolex

Located in Dallas, TX

Steel Oyster bracelet; will fit up to a 7 1/4 inch wrist . Pre-owned/vintage ca. 1950's with Rolex box.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Ladies Vintage Yellow Gold Wristwatch
Rolex Ladies Vintage Yellow Gold Wristwatch

Rolex Ladies Vintage Yellow Gold Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in South Pasadena, CA

Ladies vintage Rolex yellow gold wristwatch, circa 1950s. The Ladies Vintage Rolex Yellow Gold

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Ladies Orchid Gold Manual Winding 95705 Wristwatch
Rolex Ladies Orchid Gold Manual Winding 95705 Wristwatch

Rolex Ladies Orchid Gold Manual Winding 95705 Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Dallas, TX

with Rolex buckles. Pre-owned with Rolex box; Rolex ca. 1950's/60's.

Category

Vintage 1950s Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Rolex Ladies Orchid Gold Manual Winding 95705 Wristwatch
Rolex Ladies Orchid Gold Manual Winding 95705 Wristwatch

Rolex Ladies Orchid Gold Manual Winding 95705 Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Dallas, TX

with Rolex buckles. Pre-owned with custom box; Rolex ca. 1950's/60's.

Category

Vintage 1950s Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Vintage Rolex Oyster Date Yellow Gold Wristwatch
Vintage Rolex Oyster Date Yellow Gold Wristwatch

Vintage Rolex Oyster Date Yellow Gold Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in South Pasadena, CA

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Yellow Gold Wristwatch, from the 1950s SPECIFICATIONS: ROLEX

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Lady's Rare Yellow Gold Buckle Bracelet Watch circa 1956
Rolex Lady's Rare Yellow Gold Buckle Bracelet Watch circa 1956

Rolex Lady's Rare Yellow Gold Buckle Bracelet Watch circa 1956

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

dials seen on 1950s vintage Rolex and a "brick" bracelet, in mint condition. The bracelet is fully

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, 18k Gold

Rolex Day-Date President Automatic Platinum Ice Blue Arabic Dial 228206
Rolex Day-Date President Automatic Platinum Ice Blue Arabic Dial 228206

Rolex Day-Date President Automatic Platinum Ice Blue Arabic Dial 228206

By Rolex

Located in Aventura, FL

in the Gulf. The manufacture's custom pieces date back to the 1950s when Rolex fitted Arabic discs to

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Platinum

Honeycomb Dial Explorer circa 1953
Honeycomb Dial Explorer circa 1953

Honeycomb Dial Explorer circa 1953

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

A Stainless Steel Honey Comb Dial 1950's Explorer by Rolex - 1st Explorer with Honey Comb Dial

Category

Vintage 1950s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

1950s Rolex 14K Yellow Gold Ladies Wrist Watch
1950s Rolex 14K Yellow Gold Ladies Wrist Watch

1950s Rolex 14K Yellow Gold Ladies Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Hicksville, NY

1950s Rolex Wristwatch for Ladies 14 Karat Yellow Gold Manual Wind Crown on this watch is Omega

Category

Mid-20th Century French Retro Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

1950's Rolex Standard Ladies Dress Watch - Solid 10K Gold
1950's Rolex Standard Ladies Dress Watch - Solid 10K Gold

1950's Rolex Standard Ladies Dress Watch - Solid 10K Gold

By Rolex

Located in Suwanee, GA

. 1950's ROLEX STANDARD Ladies Dress Watch - Solid 10K Gold Charming Vintage Style - Fully Rolex - 1

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

10k Gold

1950s Rolex Diamond and 14 Karat Gold Wristwatch
1950s Rolex Diamond and 14 Karat Gold Wristwatch

1950s Rolex Diamond and 14 Karat Gold Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Hicksville, NY

Details: Womens Wristwatch Dainty yet chic 1950s Florentine finish on the bracelet The watch features a

Category

Vintage 1950s Unknown Retro Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

1950s Rolex 18 Karat Yellow Gold Ladies Wristwatch
1950s Rolex 18 Karat Yellow Gold Ladies Wristwatch

1950s Rolex 18 Karat Yellow Gold Ladies Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Poitiers, FR

clasp with security. Mechanical movement. Signed Rolex Precision. Bracelet dimensions : Length : 16.5 cm

Category

Vintage 1950s French Retro Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage 14k ROLEX Watch. Rolex 14k YG Dress Watch 1950s.
Vintage 14k ROLEX Watch. Rolex 14k YG Dress Watch 1950s.

Vintage 14k ROLEX Watch. Rolex 14k YG Dress Watch 1950s.

By Rolex

Located in Port Charlotte, FL

Vintage 1950s Rolex Mens Watch 14k Yellow Gold Case Windup Movement. Runs well. 1215 Movement

Category

Vintage 1950s Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage Rolex White Gold and Diamond Ladies Mechanical Wrist Watch
Vintage Rolex White Gold and Diamond Ladies Mechanical Wrist Watch

Vintage Rolex White Gold and Diamond Ladies Mechanical Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex Ladies Wrist Watch, 15 M.M. 14k White Gold 2 piece case with Diamond set Lug tops

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch, 1950s
Rolex Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch, 1950s

Rolex Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch, 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex Reference 6563, 34 MM Stainless Steel 2 piece case with a 14K yellow Gold engine

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Automatic Wristwatch
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Automatic Wristwatch

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Automatic Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex Oyster Perpetual, 34 MM Stainless Steel Waterproof Case with Engine turned Bezel

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Chronometer Wristwatch Ref 5500
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Chronometer Wristwatch Ref 5500

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Chronometer Wristwatch Ref 5500

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex Oyster Perpetual Chronometer, Ref. 5500 in a 3 piece, 34 M.M. stainless steel

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Yellow Gold Precision Manual Wind Wristwatch Ref 4325
Rolex Yellow Gold Precision Manual Wind Wristwatch Ref 4325

Rolex Yellow Gold Precision Manual Wind Wristwatch Ref 4325

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex, Reference 4325 Wrist watch, 35.5 MM 18K Yellow Gold 2 piece Case with Engine

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Ladies Yellow Gold Diamond Manual Wind Wristwatch
Rolex Ladies Yellow Gold Diamond Manual Wind Wristwatch

Rolex Ladies Yellow Gold Diamond Manual Wind Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex Ladies 18K Yellow Gold Wrist watch, 10.5 MM round case with Factory Diamond set

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Custom Dial Date Model Automatic Wristwatch
Rolex Stainless Steel Custom Dial Date Model Automatic Wristwatch

Rolex Stainless Steel Custom Dial Date Model Automatic Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex Reference 1500, Date Model, 34 MM Stainless Steel Water resistant oyster Case

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Vintage Gold Shell Ref 6334 Automatic Wrist Watch
Rolex Vintage Gold Shell Ref 6334 Automatic Wrist Watch

Rolex Vintage Gold Shell Ref 6334 Automatic Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex Reference 6334 Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. 2 piece Gold Shell over Stainless steel with

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Watch
Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Watch

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Watch

By Rolex

Located in South Pasadena, CA

1950's Rolex 6534 Stainless Steel 34mm with new leather strap. This watch is running strong keeping

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Ladies Platinum and French Cut Diamonds Bracelet Wristwatch
Rolex Ladies Platinum and French Cut Diamonds Bracelet Wristwatch

Rolex Ladies Platinum and French Cut Diamonds Bracelet Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex ladies Platinum Wrist Watch, 15 M.M. 2 Piece Rolex signed and numbered case with

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Rolex Ladies Gold Mid Century Round Watch circa 1950's
Rolex Ladies Gold Mid Century Round Watch circa 1950's

Rolex Ladies Gold Mid Century Round Watch circa 1950's

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

/ MATERIAL: 9Kt Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 29mm "Lug Tip to Lug Tip" X

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch, circa 1950's
Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch, circa 1950's

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch, circa 1950's

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

: 18Kt Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 31mm "Lug Tip to Lug Tip" X Width 20mm

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Art Deco Ladies Dress Watch circa 1950's
Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Art Deco Ladies Dress Watch circa 1950's

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Art Deco Ladies Dress Watch circa 1950's

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

: 18Kt Solid gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter 23mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Precision 18k Gold Watch for Ladies, 1950's
Rolex Precision 18k Gold Watch for Ladies, 1950's

Rolex Precision 18k Gold Watch for Ladies, 1950's

By Rolex

Located in Vannes, FR

ROLEX 18K Gold Watch For Ladies 1950's Mouvement Mecanic Precision Ankel 17 Rubis Original Red

Category

Vintage 1950s Wrist Watches

Rolex Ladies platinum Diamond “High Jewelry” manual Wristwatch, 1950s
Rolex Ladies platinum Diamond “High Jewelry” manual Wristwatch, 1950s

Rolex Ladies platinum Diamond “High Jewelry” manual Wristwatch, 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Inspired by the iconic designs of the art deco period, yet conceived in the 1950s, this exceptional

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Red Dial Oyster Watch, circa 1950s
Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Red Dial Oyster Watch, circa 1950s

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Red Dial Oyster Watch, circa 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

: Stainless Steel DIMENSIONS: 35mm X 30mm CIRCA: 1950's MOVEMENT / CALIBER: 17 Jewels / 10.5 DIAL / HANDS

Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Watch Company 14 Karat Sold Yellow Gold, circa 1950s
Rolex Watch Company 14 Karat Sold Yellow Gold, circa 1950s

Rolex Watch Company 14 Karat Sold Yellow Gold, circa 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

/ MATERIAL: 14Kt. Solid Yellow Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 39mm x 34mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER

Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Red Dial Oyster Watch, circa 1950s
Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Red Dial Oyster Watch, circa 1950s

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Red Dial Oyster Watch, circa 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

: Stainless Steel DIMENSIONS: 35mm X 30mm CIRCA: 1950's MOVEMENT / CALIBER: 17 Jewels / 10.5 DIAL / HANDS

Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex 1950s Bubble Back Oyster Perpetual
Rolex 1950s Bubble Back Oyster Perpetual

Rolex 1950s Bubble Back Oyster Perpetual

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Rare and exciting!! Vintage Rolex bubble back This watch, a Reference 6084 Oyster Perpetual dates

Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Aesthetic Movement Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Stainless Steel

Genuine 14k Rolex Watch. 14k WG Ladies 9823 Dainty 1950s Ladies Rolex
Genuine 14k Rolex Watch. 14k WG Ladies 9823 Dainty 1950s Ladies Rolex

Genuine 14k Rolex Watch. 14k WG Ladies 9823 Dainty 1950s Ladies Rolex

By Rolex

Located in Port Charlotte, FL

14k White Gold Rolex Ladies mechanical Movement Wristwatch. Circa 1950s Dainty 15mm Case and

Category

Vintage 1950s Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, White Gold, Stainless Steel

Mens Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 Gold-Capped Hand-Wind 1950s RJC169G
Mens Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 Gold-Capped Hand-Wind 1950s RJC169G

Mens Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 Gold-Capped Hand-Wind 1950s RJC169G

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

watch, c.1950s. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous, original, unrefurbished Rolex

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

1950's Tudor By Rolex Stainless Steel Men's Wristwatch
1950's Tudor By Rolex Stainless Steel Men's Wristwatch

1950's Tudor By Rolex Stainless Steel Men's Wristwatch

By Tudor

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Tudor By Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster 7934 MOVEMENT / CALIBER

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Mens Rolex Oyster Perpetual 8952 18k Solid Gold Manual Wind 1950s RA229
Mens Rolex Oyster Perpetual 8952 18k Solid Gold Manual Wind 1950s RA229

Mens Rolex Oyster Perpetual 8952 18k Solid Gold Manual Wind 1950s RA229

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

dress watch, c.1950s. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rolex redone dial, applied

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Gold

Mens Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6050 18k Gold 32mm Automatic 1950s Vintage RA439B
Mens Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6050 18k Gold 32mm Automatic 1950s Vintage RA439B

Mens Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6050 18k Gold 32mm Automatic 1950s Vintage RA439B

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Luxurious classic, Men's 18k solid gold Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref.6050 bubble back automatic, c

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Manual Wind Wristwatch 1950s
Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Manual Wind Wristwatch 1950s

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking Manual Wind Wristwatch 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Hicksville, NY

Item Details: Metal Type: Stainless Steel Weight: 31.1 grams Diameter: 32mm *Light spotting on dial*

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

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1950S Rolex For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the 1950s rolex you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using Stainless Steel, Gold and 18k Gold. Our collection of these items for sale includes 773 vintage editions and 1 modern creations to choose from as well. If you’re looking for a 1950s rolex from a specific time period, our collection is diverse and broad-ranging, and you’ll find at least one that dates back to the 20th Century while another version may have been produced as recently as the 21st Century. For this particular piece, are consistently popular carat weights. A 1950s rolex of any era or style can lend versatility to your look, but a version featuring Diamond, from our inventory of 23, is particularly popular. A round cut version of this piece has appeal, but there are also baguette cut and brilliant cut versions for sale. Finding a 1950s rolex for sale for men should be easy, but there are 237 pieces available to browse for unisex as well as women, too.

How Much is a 1950S Rolex?

On average, a 1950s rolex at 1stDibs sells for $4,870, while they’re typically $875 on the low end and $420,445 for the highest priced versions of this item.

Rolex for sale on 1stDibs

While the rise in popularity of vintage Rolex watches is of no surprise to aficionados, collectors and industry experts, when it comes to contemporary luxury wristwatches, Rolex is also often the first brand that springs to mind. Not only is the company revered for its precision timekeeping and impeccable craftsmanship, but its name was designed to be memorable.

Rolex's enviable worldwide recognition can be credited in part to the genius of company founder Hans Wilsdorf. 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, and by 1920, he had moved the company to Geneva and redubbed it as Montres Rolex S.A.

But the main reasons for the brand’s success are its aforementioned commitment to precision and unflagging pursuit of innovation. In 1926, the company introduced the aptly named Oyster model. With a screw-down crown and case back, both fitted with rubber gaskets, this was the first truly waterproof watch.

Five years later, Rolex upped the ante with the Oyster Perpetual. That model’s patented Perpetual movement contained a rotor mechanism enabling it to self-wind. In another trendsetting move, in 1945, the brand debuted the Datejust, with a date window prominently displayed on the dial.

The company’s two most iconic models are sports watches. Although the Submariner, which debuted in 1953, was developed as a dive watch, its waterproof case, solid construction and good looks made it a favorite of adventurers and urbanites alike, including James Bond, who wore it in classics like Dr. No and Goldfinger. The Daytona, the racing chronograph made famous by Paul Newman, is especially sought after by collectors. Newman’s personal Daytona, which hit the auction block in 2017, sold for $17.8 million.

Find vintage Rolex watches, bracelets and more on 1stDibs.

Finding the Right Wrist-watches for You

Antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches have captured the hearts and minds of all manner of watch collectors as well as the watchmakers themselves — it's time you found your own.

Certain vintage watches for men and iconic watch designs for women are sought after not only because of their graceful proportions or innovative materials but also because of the illustrious histories of the houses that created them, histories that they stylishly embody.

Bulgari’s legendary Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional wristwatches.

Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.

In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.

Are you shopping for a wristwatch? It’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.

Find antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches for sale on 1stDibs.

Questions About Rolex
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    An Oyster Perpetual on a Rolex watch refers to the watch's ability to run on the energy generated by the wearer's wrist movements rather than manual winding. At Baselworld in 2015, a variety of Rolex watches with a new-generation Oyster Perpetual movement were unveiled. Find a variety of vintage Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Because platinum is denser than other metals, it is often more expensive to purchase platinum watches than gold. One of the most expensive watches sold was a Platinum Rolex worth $277,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watch is worth around $6,000. However, if it's encrusted with gems or vintage, it can cost as much as $50,000. 1stDibs has a great and vast selection of Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The new Submariner Rolex with a Black Bezel is worth around $8,100 with some of the more expensive new Submariners in yellow gold costing around $36,950.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To wind a Rolex watch, first fully unscrew the winding crown. Once it is in a raised position, carefully turn the crown clockwise. Most watches require 25 turns for enough winding to begin powering the watch. The instructions included with Rolex watches provide more information about how to wind specific models. Shop a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Depending on what kind of watch you're looking for, one may be better than the other. For instance, if you want a highly functional sport watch, some of Rolex's models may be better for you. That said, the brands' watches are very similar quality-wise. The main difference is their appearances: While Rolex designs more traditional timepieces, Panerai is more contemporary and bold.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex Submariner bears an 18k stamp and the number “750,” which means that 75 percent of the watch is made out of pure gold model. The most luxurious of all timepieces, the Rolex Submariner has been continuously manufactured since 1951. Find vintage Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Rolex uses only the highest quality melee diamonds with between D and G in color and IF in clarity. Every diamond is tested individually to make sure it is real.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    The size of a Rolex 126000 is 36 millimeters. It features a corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel case. Many collectors love the now discontinued watch due to this striking feature, which was available in a variety of vivid colors. Find an assortment of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    Yes, the Rolex 126000 is discontinued. Rolex discontinued the Oyster Perpetual ref 126000 in the early 2020s. However, the watch may be available on the secondary market via trusted online platforms, including 1stDibs. Find a collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    No, Rolex does not officially make sunglasses that are available for sale. They do however occasionally create promotional products, which have included sunglasses for sponsored events in the past. Browse a range of Rolex products that have been expertly authenticated on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To wind a Rolex Datejust, set the crown notch (located on the right hand side of the face) to position one. To set it to position one, turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew the crown and pop the crown out one notch. From this position, start to wind the Rolex by turning the crown clockwise. You should feel a bit of tension and hear a soft clicking sound. Browse a wide selection of Rolex Datejust watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    While choosing a watch can depend on the wearer's style, there are a few consistent favorites. Some of the top Rolex watches for women include the Rolex Datejust, the Rolex Day-Date, and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The most expensive Rolex ever sold is the Paul Newman Daytona. This Rolex was purchased for $17.8 million in 2017. On 1stDibs, there are expensive Rolex watches but there is a wide variety available, so it should be easy to find a good fit for your tastes as well as your budget.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a great entry-level Rolex to purchase. The perpetual refers to the ability of the watch to use the energy of the wearer's wrist motion to run. It is a popular starter Rolex.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The lowest priced Rolex model is the Oyster Perpetual. This watch retails for roughly $5,000. On 1stDibs, you can can find a variety of Rolex watches for sale.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    One of the cheapest Rolex watches is the Oyster Perpetual, which usually costs around $5,000. This model is made of oystersteel, an affordable type of steel.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Rolex uses only the highest quality diamonds in their watches and compares these stones against certified master stones. They are the most colorless, so in ranges D to G.