Rolex Watches
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.
20th Century Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1940s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, White Gold, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century Swiss Romantic Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Classical Roman Rolex Watches
18k Gold
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
Yellow Gold, Steel
1940s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches
Rose Gold
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1950s Swiss Contemporary Vintage Rolex Watches
Gold, Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Rolex Watches
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Rose Gold, Rhodium
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
20th Century Swiss Rolex Watches
Gold Plate, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Rolex Watches
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Gold, Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
1990s Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel, Steel
1980s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel, Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel, Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
Diamond, Steel
1990s Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
1960s Swiss Romantic Vintage Rolex Watches
14k Gold
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
2010s Rolex Watches
Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Gold, Stainless Steel
1980s Contemporary Vintage Rolex Watches
18k Gold
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1950s Vintage Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Gold, Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
Late 20th Century Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel, Steel
1990s Contemporary Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
Yellow Gold, Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold
1940s Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s Swiss Contemporary Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
2010s European Art Deco Rolex Watches
Titanium
20th Century Swiss Rolex Watches
Early 2000s Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
1980s Contemporary Vintage Rolex Watches
18k Gold
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
Yellow Gold
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
Find Antique and Vintage Watches for Sale on 1stDibs
Records show that, in Europe, by the 16th century, it was high time for portable clock devices. Right now, perhaps you’re shopping for your own. If so, find a vast range of fashionable and functional antique, new and classic vintage watches on 1stDibs.
While wall-mounted time tellers and grandfather clocks were much more convenient than the sundials of ancient history, watches were becoming crucial for an increasingly connected society whose members learned that the latest advancements in technology meant they could carry devices that kept time to within a minute a day. Tragically, the first pocket watches — albeit an improvement on the accessories that preceded them, which dangled from a chain worn around the neck — didn’t help much as far as accuracy or portability. Focused on style over substance, the upper class frequently carried lavish pieces that ran hours behind.
Eventually, watches migrated from owners’ pockets to their wrists. 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.
Indeed, although exceedingly practical, the watches of today are far from bland. Bulgari’s iconic 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 watches. You’ll always know what time it is because you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from your new accessory.
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.
When shopping for a watch, 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 exactly what you’re looking for in an unparalleled collection of antique, new and vintage watches on 1stDibs — we promise it will be worth your time.
Creators Similar to Rolex
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, a Rolex watch will hold its value and some of them even appreciate over time. This high-end brand has a grand reputation for superior quality, making it one of the more desirable watches available. Shop a collection of properly vetted vintage and contemporary Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, Rolex watches are not battery-powered, except for the rare Rolex Oysterquartz model. This model is no longer in production, but you can still find it in the second-hand market. Shop a collection of Rolex watches, including the rare Oysterquartz, from reputable dealers on 1stDibs.
- Can a Rolex be traced?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, a Rolex can be traced using its unique serial number that is engraved into the watch. Noting down your watch’s serial number somewhere safe can help to identify it if it’s ever lost. Browse a collection of professionally vetted Rolex timepieces on 1stDibs from top sellers.
- Are Rolex spoons worth anything?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Rolex spoons are generally worth only a modest amount. Retailers once gave out these souvenir spoons along with the purchase of Rolex watches. Consult an experienced appraiser for specific information regarding the value of a particular spoon. You'll find a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- Are Rolex watches unisex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Rolex watches have no specific unisex style, but Rolex does have both women’s and men’s versions. However, some women prefer to purchase the larger men’s watches, and some men opt for the smaller women’s Rolex brands. Shop a variety of luxury men’s and women’s Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 7, 2024Whether or not Rolex watches are a good investment will depend upon a range of factors such as rarity, condition and more. While a study of luxury investments in 2019 found that jewelry was among the worst-performing collectibles (luxury handbags had the highest returns), experts have reported that jewelry’s status as an investment is improving.
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.
The demand for Rolex watches has soared in recent years. This has led to wait lists at authorized Rolex dealers extending as long as several years for new versions of popular models, like the Daytona and the Submariner. While the enthusiasm for Rolex that is shared by celebrities and prominent influencers has kept the brand in the spotlight, its work has long been celebrated all over the world. The main reasons for the brand’s success are its commitment to precision and unflagging pursuit of innovation.
Determining the value of any collectible depends upon a variety of aspects. Because Rolex is so well-known for its innovation and legacy of craftsmanship, this can have a positive effect on the long-term value of its jewelry.
Jewelry industry professionals advise that investment-worthy high-quality vintage jewelry should include its maker’s hallmarks. (Genuine Rolex watches have their serial and model numbers deeply engraved into the metal between the lugs attaching the band to the body — whereas fakes often just have them etched on with acid.)
At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Buyers should keep in mind that the value of any investment is subject to fluctuation, and any investment decisions should be made according to the guidance of a financial advisor.
Find a helpful Rolex buying guide and a collection of vintage Rolex watches today on 1stDibs. - 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021An 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.
- What is a Rolex GMT?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Rolex GMT is a wristwatch designed with jetsetters in mind. The watch features a bezel that can track both departure and destination times. Unlike standard watches, the Rolex GMT has a fourth hand set to GMT. GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, which is the standard to which all time zones are dictated. Find a selection of Rolex GMT watches and other styles on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The Rolex Datejust uses the Caliber 3235 movement developed in-house. It is a chronometer certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute to ensure exceptional accuracy. Browse on 1stDibs for a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches from top boutiques around the world.
- Which Rolex will go up in value?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Many Rolex models may go up in value with time, but the Rolex Submariner is one of the watch models most proven to increase in value. It is highly durable and very popular, making it an iconic Rolex model. Shop on 1stDibs to find a collection of authentically vetted Rolex watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Rolex started laser-engraving the rehaut in 2005 in an attempt to make their famous timepieces harder to counterfeit. The Datejust was the first model to receive this treatment. You can shop a collection of expertly vetted timepieces from some of the world’s top reputable sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Rolex uses some of the highest quality diamonds available. The diamonds used in its products must rank IF or above in clarity and between D-G in coloring. Shop a range of authentic Rolex timepieces from the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022You can buy a Rolex watch from any official retailer around the world. To find one near you, use the ‘Store Locator’ function on Rolex’s website. On 1stDibs, you can also shop a selection of expertly vetted Rolex watches from some of the world’s top sellers.
- Why is my Rolex running fast?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Your Rolex may be running fast because it is in need of servicing. A qualified technician will disassemble your watch, clean and regulate it to keep it running in tip-top shape. Find a technician near you by using the ‘Service Center’ function straight from Rolex’s website. You can find a collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The five-point crown on a Rolex watch represents the famous timepiece maker’s slogan, ‘A Crown for Every Achievement’. The gold color of the crown represents excellence and the green tone within the logo represents prosperity. Find a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches from some of the world’s top reputable boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To find the Rolex serial number, turn your watch over and examine the back of the case. In most instances, the serial number appears in the 6 o'clock area of the case back. The engraved serial number will contain four to eight digits. Shop a wide range of expertly vetted Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Because 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, 2021A 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 ExpertApril 5, 2022To identify a Rolex serial number for a watch made before 2005, look on the lugs on the back of the watch body. The serial number is engraved at 6 o'clock. On post-2005 models, the number is also engraved on the inside flange between the dial and the crystal. On Rolex watches made in 2008 and beyond, the serial number is only located on the inside flange. On 1stDibs, find authentic vintage watches from Rolex.
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