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First Rolex To Buy

1942 Rolex “Raleigh” Stainless Steel. Total Restoration!
By Rolex
Located in Raleigh, NC
production for the first year of the conflict, it being no longer pictured in Rolex catalogues after 1940
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

1917 Rolex WW1/Trench Watch, Rare Half Hunter, Stunning Dial
By Rolex
Located in Raleigh, NC
But first, I have a shameless plug! My shop was recently selected to supply vintage American
Category

Vintage 1910s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Sterling Silver

1917 Rolex WW1/Trench Watch, Rare Half Hunter, Stunning Dial
1917 Rolex WW1/Trench Watch, Rare Half Hunter, Stunning Dial
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H 0.56 in W 1.23 in Dm 1.23 in
Rolex GMT Master II Wristwatch. 18ct White Gold. Discontinued Reference. Yr 2015
By Rolex
Located in Canterbury, GB
(replaced by the blue dial). One of the first retailed, in 2015 by a recognised EU Rolex authorised dealer
Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold

Rare, Rare, Harrods/Fortis Water Resistant Dive Watch WW1, Nickel
Located in Raleigh, NC
stamped 'Brevet' with a serial number 936 This a rare opportunity to buy an exceptional timepiece that
Category

Vintage 1910s British Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Other

1942 Lord Elgin Caliber 559 21 Jewels. Christmas 1943
By Elgin
Located in Raleigh, NC
Company pioneered its first wristwatch, leading ahead of other American watch companies. Elgin watches
Category

Vintage 1940s American Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Decorative Antique Victorian 1890 James Beall Morrison Treadle Dentist Drill
Located in GB
of the first mechanically powered drill. These sped up dental treatments This one seems to be in
Category

Antique 1890s English Late Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Steel

ANTIQUE FLAMED HARDWOOD DESK FROM PRINCESS DIANA'S FAMiLY HOME SPENCER HOUSE
Located in GB
ask London’s finest surviving 18th-century aristocratic palace, built for the first Earl Spencer
Category

Vintage 1910s English Edwardian Desks

Materials

Leather, Hardwood

People Also Browsed

Dinh Van Paris Vintage Classic "Double Dinh" Geometric Cuff 925 Sterling Silver
By Jean Dinh Van
Located in Miami, FL
A geometric cuff bracelet designed by Jean Dinh Van. Beautiful geometric modernist piece, created in Paris, France at the jewelry atelier of the iconic designer Dinh Van. This rare ...
Category

Late 20th Century French Modern Cuff Bracelets

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1500 Automatic Original Champagne Dial Watch
By Rolex
Located in Toronto, CA
Brand : Rolex Model: Oyster Perpetual Date Reference Number : 1500 Features : Screw down Crown - Champagne Dial Country Of Manufacture: Switzerland Movement: Automatic Ca...
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Steel Oyster Lipton Wristwatch from 1944
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Round / Lipton METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1944 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36mm x Diameter 29mm MOVEMENT / ...
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Rolex Tudor Oyster Mid Size with Original Patinated Dial From 1942
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Tudor Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster / Reference 4270 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1942 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 30mm x Diameter ...
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Rolex Vintage Steel Manual Wind Ref 6424 Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1954 Rolex Reference 6424 Wrist Watch, 36 M.M. Stainless Steel 3 piece Oyster case. Caliber 1215 Mechanical, Manual wind Nickle Lever movement, Rolex Logo Crown. New Custom Vin...
Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex 1940s Yellow Gold Automatic Bubble Back Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Circa 1940s Rolex Bubble Back Wrist Watch, 32 M.M. 3 Piece 14K Yellow Gold case with smooth Bezel, Automatic, Self Winding movement. Restored Black Dial with Radium style filled Rom...
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Aesthetic Movement Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Cartier "Byzantine" Belt or Necklace in Gold Vermeil, Signed, circa 1970
By Cartier
Located in McKinney, TX
An extremely rare gold vermeil belt by Cartier, circa 1970, also can be worn as a chunky statement necklace. This highly sought after and coveted belt is made from solid sterling si...
Category

1970s American Belts

Rolex "Bubbleback" Ref 5011 Automatic Steel and Rose Gold Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1949 Rolex "Bubbleback" Reference 5011 Wrist Watch, 31 M.M Stainless Steel with a Rose Gold Engine Turned Bezel, Caliber A296 17 Jewel Automatic, Self winding movement, Older R...
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, Steel

1915 Waltham WW1 Trench Watch, Rare 16 Jewel Movement. Stunning
By Waltham
Located in Raleigh, NC
My shop was recently selected to supply vintage American watches for a premier movie starring some major actors and a world famous director. They were looking for authentic watches t...
Category

Vintage 1910s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Sterling Silver

Waltham 14Kt. Solid Gold Art Deco Watch with Original Dial from 1910
By Waltham
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Waltham Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Military Campaign Style METAL / MATERIAL: 14kt Solid Gold CIRCA YEAR: 1910 DIMENSIONS: 30mm X 28mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manua...
Category

Vintage 1910s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Vintage Dolce + Gabbana 2000s Y2K D& G Pink Floral Wiggle Midi Dress
By D&G by DOLCE & GABBANA
Located in Denver, CO
Vintage D&G Dolce + Gabbana Dress (shown pinned) Stretch rayon pink fabric with beautiful oversized floral print Wide shoulder straps Scooped neckline Fitted bust w/darts Wiggle fit ...
Category

2010s Cocktail Dresses

Rolex Mens TT Datejust MOP Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel Watch
By Rolex
Located in San Pedro, CA
Swiss Wrist - SKU 16013-WMOP-DIA-AM-BDS-JBL Brand : Rolex Model : Datejust Ref# 16013 - Plastic Quickset Model Gender : Mens Metals : 14K Yellow Gold/ Stainless Steel Case Size : 3...
Category

Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Omega Steel Oversized 1920s Wristwatch with Exceptional Dial
By Omega
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Omega Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oversized Pocket Wrist Watch METAL / MATERIAL: Nickel CIRCA / YEAR: 1915 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 54mm X Diameter 47mm MOVEM...
Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Art Deco Ladies Diamond Rolex Cocktail Watch in 18ct White Gold
By Rolex
Located in Kenley surrey, GB
An original 1920s fine quality ladies ‘cocktail’ wristwatch by Rolex in 18ct white gold case and the guilloche enamelled face surrounded by diamonds.
Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Doxa Platinum and Diamond Ladies Bracelet Dress Watch, circa 1930's
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Doxa Watch company by Wyler STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco Dress Watch METAL / MATERIAL: Platinum & Diamonds CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 31mm x Width...
Category

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Wrist Watches

Rolex Royal Precision, 1951, 15 Jewel Super Balance, Stainless Steel
By Rolex
Located in Raleigh, NC
Today's offering showcases this uncommon and original Rolex Oyster Royal model #6144 encased in stainless steel. Built only in the early 1950's, these watches are fine and desirable....
Category

Vintage 1950s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Recent Sales

1997 Rolex Submariner Date 18K Gold and Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in Bradford, Ontario
A 1997 Rolex Sabmariner Date 18K Gold and Stainless Steel automatic wristwatch. A classic watch
Category

1990s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Stainless Steel

Chaumet Dandy Reserve De Marche 18K White Gold Stem Wind Wristwatch 94/100
By Chaumet
Located in Bradford, Ontario
marriage. It does not take long to get a little bored with the usual cast of high-end watches like Rolex
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold

Motion Picture Audio Recorder. "Nagra III", circa 1966 Vintage Sculpture, Sale
By Nagra Kudelski Company
Located in Dallas, TX
Nagra Model III is the first generation of these Classic recording machines. Made like a Rolex watch
Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Archaistic Mounted Objects

Very Rare Unpolished 18-Karat Rolex Submariner All Original from 1969
By Rolex
Located in Munich, DE
to buy a nearly unused icon. The first gold Rolex sport watch. First year of production with a two
Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Collectible Jewelry

Rolex Champagne 18K Yellow Gold Datejust 16013 Men's Wristwatch 35 mm
By Rolex
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
The Datejust watches, first introduced in 1945, are one of the most recognizable and much-coveted
Category

2010s British Contemporary Wrist Watches

Rolex Ladies 18k Gold/SS Datejust, 2.00 Carats Diamond Bezel/Dial Model #6917
By Rolex
Located in Birmingham, MI
. Plastic crystal has some scratches. Watch is very clean. 2- year warranty. It's a great first Rolex for a
Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Steel

Rolex Ladies 18k Gold/SS Datejust, 2.00 carats Diamond Bezel/Dial Model #6917
By Rolex
Located in Birmingham, MI
. Plastic crystal has some scratches. Watch is very clean. 2- year warranty. It's a great first Rolex for a
Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Steel

GMT Master II Series, Reference 116719BLRO, 18 Karat White Gold, Complete Set
By Rolex
Located in Canterbury, GB
(replaced by the blue dial). One of the first retailed, in 2015 by a recognised EU Rolex authorised dealer
Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold

Louis Vuitton Blue Monogram Denim Neo Speedy Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
back to the 1960’s, Speedy was one of the first bags made by Louis Vuitton for everyday use. Crafted
Category

2010s French Top Handle Bags

S.T. Dupont Spectre Silver Tone Limited Edition Torch Flame & Cigar Cutter Set
By S.T. Dupont
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
line is marked by qualities such as innovation, refined craftsmanship, and first-rate style. This set
Category

2010s French Miscellaneous

Grand Seiko Mechanical Automatic Watch SBGR001
By Seiko
Located in Southbury, CT
"Grand" is everything. First created in 1960 to compete with the iconic Swiss watchmakers, every
Category

Early 2000s Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

PAIR OF 1969 PETER HOYTE WHiSKY BROWN LEATHER HARDWOOD ARMCHAIRS FULLY RESTORED
By Peter Hoyte
Located in GB
rich Whisky brown colour, the first two have sold and been shipped to Hong Kong, the second pair went
Category

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Hardwood

HOWARD & SON'S GRAFTON FOUR SEAT SOFA & PAiR OF ARMCHAIRS SUITE VELVET FABRIC
By Howard Chairs Ltd., Howard & Sons Ltd, Howard and Sons
Located in GB
next 25 years they would make several changes of premises within the Whitechapel area. First to 27
Category

20th Century English Victorian Living Room Sets

Materials

Velvet

PAIR OF ANTIQUE HOWARD & SON'S GRAFTON ARMCHAIRS ORIGINAL TICKING FABRiC
By Howard & Sons Ltd, Howard and Sons, Howard Chairs Ltd.
Located in GB
make several changes of premises within the Whitechapel area. First to 27 Great Alie St (Now just Alie
Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Armchairs

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

Marchesa Off White Sequined Tulle Strapless Wedding Gown L
By Marchesa
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
belt to make your bridal look complete. For this delightful occasion, your comfort is the first
Category

2010s American Day Dresses

COLLECTABLE PAIR OF ANTIQUE WILLIAM MORRIS SUSSEX SiDE CHAIRS SEEN IN V&A MUSEUM
By William Morris (English)
Located in GB
and his wife, Jane, used Sussex chairs in their first home, Red House, Bexleyheath, Kent, from 1860
Category

Antique 1870s English High Victorian Side Chairs

Materials

Rush, Rope, Beech

PAIR OF FINE B&B ITALIA METROPOLITAN HAND DYED BROWN LEATHER SWIVEL ARMCHAIRs
Located in GB
first class Dimensions Height:- 71cm Width:- 85cm Depth:- 70cm Seat height:- 38.5cm Please note
Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Chrome

1962 Rolex Submariner Gilt Gloss Meters First Dial Pointed Crown Guards
By Rolex
Located in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire
good pre-owned condition and shows some general signs of wear or patina relative to its age. “The Rolex
Category

Vintage 1960s Unknown Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

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Questions About First Rolex To Buy
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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
    Yes, there are Rolex stores in over 100 countries. When looking for a store near you, simply use the ‘Store Locator’ resource on Rolex’s website. You can even order online from the Rolex website or shop a large collection of Rolex watches from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    While you may be able to buy Rolex watch parts online, you do run the risk of buying fake replacement pieces. In order to maintain the authenticity of your Rolex, you can return your watch to an official retailer for servicing. Find a retailer near you by using the ‘Service Center’ resource on Rolex’s website. You’ll also find a large collection of Rolex watches from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    You can buy a Rolex watch through an official Rolex dealer. To meet the demands of customers worldwide, Rolex partners with brick-and-mortar dealers in more than 100 countries. In addition, you can buy Rolex on numerous online platforms, including 1stDibs. To ensure that you receive an authentic Rolex, only buy from a reputable dealer or platform. Find a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 29, 2024
    There are a few things you should know before buying a Rolex. The first question to ask yourself is whether you want a new, pre-owned or vintage Rolex. Although definitions vary, pre-owned watches are generally those less than 20 years old, while vintage watches are 20 years old and up.

    Buying a new, never-worn watch enables you to build a history with it that isn’t shared by anyone else, but the greatest advantage to buying a pre-owned Rolex is that it opens up a wider range of models to consider, including rare ones that have been discontinued. (Everyone seems to have heart-shaped eyes for vintage watches right now.)

    Before shopping for a Rolex online, you may want to become acquainted with its components, such as the movement, the case and the lugs, so that you can easily compare and contrast your options.

    Familiarize yourself with popular Rolex models, which include the Oyster Perpetual, the Submariner and the Daytona. Which one is a good fit for you? Each model has its own look, features and personality.

    The choice of a strap or bracelet can drastically affect the look of your watch, making it formal or casual, traditional or daring. Although often an afterthought, it’s an important element.

    See our official Rolex buying guide, and find an exquisite collection of vintage Rolex watches today on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
    Whether it is worth buying a vintage Rolex is a matter of personal preference and opinion. Because it can be difficult to predict how the value of items will fluctuate, choose timepieces that appeal to you. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Rolex watches from some of the world's top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    You can buy a pre-owned Rolex from a variety of sources, including individual sellers, authorized dealers, auction houses and various online platforms, including 1stDibs. Buying from a reputable dealer or platform can help to ensure that you receive an authentic Rolex timepiece in good working order. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Rolex watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    You 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 29, 2024
    Buying a Rolex may or may not be a good investment. Whether or not this kind of purchase meets the financial goal of a given investor or collector will depend upon a range of factors such as the rarity of the watch, its 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 ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The right time to buy a Rolex is really when you have the discretionary funds to purchase the model you want. Rolex produces its watches in limited quantities which can fuel cost increases, although the high-end retailer has not confirmed any increases in the near future. Shop a collection of Rolex timepieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, you can buy a new Rolex bracelet to replace one that is damaged or showing signs of wear and tear. To obtain one and have it installed, you will need to work with an authorized Rolex service center. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of Rolex watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Authentic Rolex watches can be bought from any official retailer around the world. When looking for a store near you, simply use the ‘Store Locator’ resource on Rolex’s website. You’ll also find a variety of expertly vetted Rolex timepieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.