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Heritage Rolex

Rolex Oyster 6244 c1952
Rolex Oyster 6244 c1952

Rolex Oyster 6244 c1952

$3,854

W 1.23 in Dm 1.23 in

Rolex Oyster 6244 c1952

By Rolex

Located in London, GB

Rolex Oyster 6244 Circa 1952 Manual Wind Ivory Honeycomb Dial Vintage Collectors Piece A rare

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Unworn Rolex 1908 Reference# 52508, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex 1908 Reference# 52508, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex 1908 Reference# 52508, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

The Rolex Perpetual 1908 Ref. 52508-0006 is a masterful tribute to Rolex’s enduring heritage and

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Unworn Rolex Explorer Reference# 124270, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Explorer Reference# 124270, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Explorer Reference# 124270, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Rolex Explorer 124270-0001 – A Modern Tribute to an Iconic 36mm Heritage Design The Rolex Explorer

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Unworn Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Reference# 126515ln, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Reference# 126515ln, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Reference# 126515ln, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

striking fusion of luxury and motorsport heritage, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 126515LN-0002 is a bold

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Ref. 126000-0011 is a captivating expression of refined simplicity

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 176200 Datejust Stainless Steel Black Semi Arabic Dial Watch
Rolex 176200 Datejust Stainless Steel Black Semi Arabic Dial Watch

Rolex 176200 Datejust Stainless Steel Black Semi Arabic Dial Watch

By Rolex

Located in Boca Raton, FL

Rolex 176200 Datejust Stainless Steel Black Semi Arabic Dial Watch This beautiful Rolex 176200

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX Watch 114200 Stainless M number 2007-2008 Air King
ROLEX Watch 114200 Stainless M number 2007-2008 Air King

ROLEX Watch 114200 Stainless M number 2007-2008 Air King

By Rolex

Located in Boca Raton, FL

Timeless and understated, the Rolex Air-King Ref. 114200 is a classic expression of Rolex

Category

Early 2000s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 White Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 White Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 White Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

, rendered in solid white gold, adds a touch of Rolex heritage while catching the light with every movement

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, Stainless Steel

Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual No Date Reference# 124300, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual No Date Reference# 124300, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual No Date Reference# 124300, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

in Rolex’s heritage of precision timekeeping. The luminous baton hour markers and hands, crafted in

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Slate Jubilee Reference# 126333, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Slate Jubilee Reference# 126333, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Slate Jubilee Reference# 126333, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

delivers a powerful wrist presence while preserving the classic lines and heritage that define Rolex. The

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Black Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Black Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Black Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0017 blends modern refinement with timeless Rolex heritage, crafted

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold, Stainless Steel

1940's Rolex WWII British Military Vintage Antique Mens Pocket Watch
1940's Rolex WWII British Military Vintage Antique Mens Pocket Watch

1940's Rolex WWII British Military Vintage Antique Mens Pocket Watch

By Rolex

Located in Suwanee, GA

military issued Rolex represents a rare intersection of horology, history, and heritage. Detailed

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Other

Recent Sales

Vintage 1983 Ladies Rolex Gold Jubilee Watch *No Papers
Vintage 1983 Ladies Rolex Gold Jubilee Watch *No Papers

Vintage 1983 Ladies Rolex Gold Jubilee Watch *No Papers

By Rolex

Located in Boca Raton, FL

testament to Rolex's unparalleled watchmaking heritage. Serial no. : 745XXXX Key Features: Year: 1983

Category

Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Bicolor
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Bicolor

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Bicolor

By Rolex

Located in Roosendaal, NL

timepiece, the Cosmograph Daytona Bicolor is a wise investment. Its prestigious Rolex heritage and timeless

Category

2010s Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex 126710BLNR "Batgirl" GMT-Master II
Rolex 126710BLNR "Batgirl" GMT-Master II

Rolex 126710BLNR "Batgirl" GMT-Master II

By Rolex

Located in Boca Raton, FL

timeless Rolex heritage. Material: Oystersteel Case Size: 40mm Bezel: Black and blue Cerachrom bezel

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 18ct Gold Vintage Manual Wristwatch – Circa 1927
Rolex 18ct Gold Vintage Manual Wristwatch – Circa 1927

Rolex 18ct Gold Vintage Manual Wristwatch – Circa 1927

By Rolex

Located in SYDNEY, NSW

. This timepiece dates back to circa 1927, showcasing the timeless craftsmanship and heritage of Rolex

Category

Vintage 1920s Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold

Rolex 16610 Submariner Black Dial and Black Bezel Watch
Rolex 16610 Submariner Black Dial and Black Bezel Watch

Rolex 16610 Submariner Black Dial and Black Bezel Watch

By Rolex

Located in Boca Raton, FL

performance. With its timeless appeal, iconic heritage, and collectibility, the Rolex Submariner remains one

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex 16014 Datejust Stainless Steel Aftermarket Pink Diamond Dial Bezel Watch
Rolex 16014 Datejust Stainless Steel Aftermarket Pink Diamond Dial Bezel Watch

Rolex 16014 Datejust Stainless Steel Aftermarket Pink Diamond Dial Bezel Watch

By Rolex

Located in Boca Raton, FL

Raymond Lee Presentation Box! SKU: W3624 Playful Elegance with Iconic Heritage – Rolex 16014 Datejust

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Air King 116900 Black Dial Automatic Men's Luxury Wristwatch
Rolex Air King 116900 Black Dial Automatic Men's Luxury Wristwatch

Rolex Air King 116900 Black Dial Automatic Men's Luxury Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

Introducing the Rolex Air King 116900 - A Timepiece of Elegance and Precision Unveil the

Category

Mid-20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Chameleon Orchid 2061, Silver Dial - Elegant Antique Ladies Watch
Rolex Chameleon Orchid 2061, Silver Dial - Elegant Antique Ladies Watch

Rolex Chameleon Orchid 2061, Silver Dial - Elegant Antique Ladies Watch

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

small size, changeable strap A Jewel of Rolex's Heritage The Rolex Chameleon Orchid 2061 is more than

Category

Mid-20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Silver

Rolex Explorer 114270 - Black Dial, F No., Pre-Owned Men's, Authentic
Rolex Explorer 114270 - Black Dial, F No., Pre-Owned Men's, Authentic

Rolex Explorer 114270 - Black Dial, F No., Pre-Owned Men's, Authentic

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a seamless blend of Rolex's sporting heritage and classic style

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Authentic Rolex Explorer I 14270 Men's - Black Dial, A-Series, Used
Authentic Rolex Explorer I 14270 Men's - Black Dial, A-Series, Used

Authentic Rolex Explorer I 14270 Men's - Black Dial, A-Series, Used

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

Embark on a journey of timeless elegance and unrivaled precision with the Rolex Explorer I 14270, a

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust Thunderbird 16264 Blue Dial Roman P Series Men's Watch
Rolex Datejust Thunderbird 16264 Blue Dial Roman P Series Men's Watch

Rolex Datejust Thunderbird 16264 Blue Dial Roman P Series Men's Watch

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

The Rolex Datejust Thunderbird 16264, with its distinguished blue dial and unique bidirectional

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold

Rolex Daytona 40mm Ice Blue Dial Brown Bezel Platinum 2024 Style: 126506
Rolex Daytona 40mm Ice Blue Dial Brown Bezel Platinum 2024 Style: 126506

Rolex Daytona 40mm Ice Blue Dial Brown Bezel Platinum 2024 Style: 126506

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

box and papers A symbol of luxury and precision, this Daytona combines Rolex's heritage with modern

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Platinum

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 Silver-Blue Dial V-Series Used Men's Watch
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 Silver-Blue Dial V-Series Used Men's Watch

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000 Silver-Blue Dial V-Series Used Men's Watch

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

's renowned quality and style. This watch is more than a timekeeper; it's a piece of Rolex heritage that

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Silver, Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 16233G Champagne Dial 10P Diamond E Series Men's Watch, Used
Rolex Datejust 16233G Champagne Dial 10P Diamond E Series Men's Watch, Used

Rolex Datejust 16233G Champagne Dial 10P Diamond E Series Men's Watch, Used

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

synonymous with Rolex's heritage, blending the Oyster case's waterproof prowess, the Datejust mechanism's

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Elegant Rolex Datejust 16234 White Dial Bar Markers, F Serial Men's Watch
Elegant Rolex Datejust 16234 White Dial Bar Markers, F Serial Men's Watch

Elegant Rolex Datejust 16234 White Dial Bar Markers, F Serial Men's Watch

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

shows only minimal signs of wear. As a model that symbolizes the heritage and innovation of Rolex, the

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold

Authentic Rolex Explorer I 114270 V No. Men's Black Dial Pre-Owned Watch
Authentic Rolex Explorer I 114270 V No. Men's Black Dial Pre-Owned Watch

Authentic Rolex Explorer I 114270 V No. Men's Black Dial Pre-Owned Watch

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

Embark on a journey of timeless sophistication and unparalleled precision with the Rolex Explorer I

Category

Early 2000s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 16233G 10P Diamond Champagne Dial - Pre-Owned Men's Watch T No.
Rolex Datejust 16233G 10P Diamond Champagne Dial - Pre-Owned Men's Watch T No.

Rolex Datejust 16233G 10P Diamond Champagne Dial - Pre-Owned Men's Watch T No.

By Rolex

Located in Holtsville, NY

masterpiece that embodies the heritage and innovation of Rolex. This pre-owned men's watch is a testament to

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

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Rolex Oyster Ref 6605 Datejust 18k Gold 36mm Mens 1960s Date Automatic RA701
Rolex Oyster Ref 6605 Datejust 18k Gold 36mm Mens 1960s Date Automatic RA701

Rolex Oyster Ref 6605 Datejust 18k Gold 36mm Mens 1960s Date Automatic RA701

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Timeless treasure, rare 18k solid gold Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref.6605 Datejust automatic, c.1960, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Cartier Tank Solo Large Yellow Gold and Steel Quartz Wrist Watch
Cartier Tank Solo Large Yellow Gold and Steel Quartz Wrist Watch

Cartier Tank Solo Large Yellow Gold and Steel Quartz Wrist Watch

By Cartier

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 2018 Cartier Tank Solo reference 2742 Large Wrist Watch. 34 X 27 MM water resistant 18k Yellow Gold with Steel Case back, Sapphire crown, Scratch resistant sapphire crystal, qu...

Category

2010s French Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel

Tiffany & Co. 4.43 Carat GIA G SI1 Diamond Heart Necklace
Tiffany & Co. 4.43 Carat GIA G SI1 Diamond Heart Necklace

Tiffany & Co. 4.43 Carat GIA G SI1 Diamond Heart Necklace

By Tiffany & Co.

Located in New York, NY

Discover the world of Tiffany & Co. with this Diamond Heart Necklace, featuring a breathtaking 4.43 carat heart-shaped GIA certified diamond with G color and SI1 clarity which offers...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Patek Philippe 3520D 18K Yellow Gold Men's Watch
Patek Philippe 3520D 18K Yellow Gold Men's Watch

Patek Philippe 3520D 18K Yellow Gold Men's Watch

By Patek Philippe

Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY

The Patek Philippe 3520D is an elegant timepiece that exemplifies luxury and craftsmanship. It features a 32mm case made of 18K yellow gold, paired with a distinctive hobnail bezel t...

Category

1990s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Air King Vintage Steel Automatic Wrist Watch
Rolex Air King Vintage Steel Automatic Wrist Watch

Rolex Air King Vintage Steel Automatic Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1970 Rolex Air King Reference 5500 Wrist watch, 34 M.M Stainless Steel 3 Piece Oyster case. Caliber 1520 Automatic, self winding movement. Silver Satin dial with raised Stick m...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Rare Factory Original Silvered Dial and Gilt Markers
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Rare Factory Original Silvered Dial and Gilt Markers

Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Rare Factory Original Silvered Dial and Gilt Markers

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X Diameter 3...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

NWT $250, 000 Rare 18KT Magnificent Fancy 23CT Yellow Diamond Tennis Bracelet
NWT $250, 000 Rare 18KT Magnificent Fancy 23CT Yellow Diamond Tennis Bracelet

NWT $250, 000 Rare 18KT Magnificent Fancy 23CT Yellow Diamond Tennis Bracelet

Located in New York, NY

The Following Item we are offering is this Beautiful Rare Important 18KT Yellow Gold Large Glittering Fancy Cut Yellow Diamond Tennis Bracelet. Bracelet is comprised of over 23CTS Ma...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Tennis Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570

By Rolex

Located in Braintree, GB

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II 216570 Made in 2018, Purchase date 2019 Case Diameter: 42 mm Movement: Automatic Model Nr. 216570 Watchband Material: Stainless Steel Case Mate...

Category

2010s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Tudor Oyster Royal 7934
Tudor Oyster Royal 7934

Tudor Oyster Royal 7934

$3,303

Dm 1.34 in

Tudor Oyster Royal 7934

By Tudor

Located in London, GB

A rare find, this Tudor Oyster Royal dates back to 1961 and surprisingly its managed to hold on to its original inner and outer box, papers, manuals and some evidence of previous ser...

Category

Vintage 1960s European Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Hermès Gold Mini Kelly 20 Epsom Gold Hardware
Hermès Gold Mini Kelly 20 Epsom Gold Hardware

Hermès Gold Mini Kelly 20 Epsom Gold Hardware

By Hermès

Located in New York, NY

Jewels Aficionado offers the Hermès Mini Kelly 20 Sellier in Gold Epsom leather, a timeless icon in one of Hermès' most iconic neutrals. The warm caramel brown hue with contrast stit...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Top Handle Bags

Very Rare Vintage 1944 Omega Chronometer Watch US Navy Issued
Very Rare Vintage 1944 Omega Chronometer Watch US Navy Issued

Very Rare Vintage 1944 Omega Chronometer Watch US Navy Issued

By Omega

Located in New York, NY

Rare Vintage 1944 Omega Chronometer Watch US Navy Issued What is amazing about this watch is that it is in perfect working condition and also looks amazing to its age. This is a piec...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Swiss Aesthetic Movement Wrist Watches

1961 Tudor (Rolex) Oyster Royal Vintage Mens Ref. 7934 Watch - Stainless Steel
1961 Tudor (Rolex) Oyster Royal Vintage Mens Ref. 7934 Watch - Stainless Steel

1961 Tudor (Rolex) Oyster Royal Vintage Mens Ref. 7934 Watch - Stainless Steel

By Tudor

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

Stainless Steel

ROLEX Watch 1948 Vintage Ref 4498 Stainless Steel Working Keeps Time
ROLEX Watch 1948 Vintage Ref 4498 Stainless Steel Working Keeps Time

ROLEX Watch 1948 Vintage Ref 4498 Stainless Steel Working Keeps Time

By Rolex

Located in Santa Monica, CA

ROLEX Watch 1948 Vintage Ref 4498 Stainless Steel 0.59 million serial number, circa 1948 Case in original unpolished condition In good condition, working, keeping time, Dial maybe ...

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Unworn Rolex Submariner Date Reference# 126610ln, Complete set, 2025
Unworn Rolex Submariner Date Reference# 126610ln, Complete set, 2025

Unworn Rolex Submariner Date Reference# 126610ln, Complete set, 2025

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Rolex Submariner Date 126610LN-0001 – The Iconic Dive Watch Reimagined in 41mm Oystersteel The Rolex Submariner Date 126610LN-0001 is the ultimate evolution of one of the most iconi...

Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Classic Oysterdate with Original Dial, circa 1970's
Rolex Stainless Steel Classic Oysterdate with Original Dial, circa 1970's

Rolex Stainless Steel Classic Oysterdate with Original Dial, circa 1970's

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm x Diameter ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1550 34mm Champagne Dial 14k Gold Stainless Steel
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1550 34mm Champagne Dial 14k Gold Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1550 34mm Champagne Dial 14k Gold Stainless Steel

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 1550 Model: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Case Material: 14k Gold Plated Stainless Steel Band: Custom Leather Strap Bezel: 14k Gold Plated Stainless Ste...

Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel

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Heritage Rolex For Sale on 1stDibs

Surely you’ll find the exact heritage rolex you’re seeking on 1stDibs — we’ve got a vast assortment for sale. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using 18k gold, gold and stainless steel. If you’re looking for a heritage 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 19th Century while another version may have been produced as recently as the 20th Century. A heritage rolex from Rolex — each of whom created a beautiful version of this treasured accessory — is worth considering.

How Much is a Heritage Rolex?

Prices for a heritage rolex can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $1,632 and can go as high as $22,369, while this accessory, on average, fetches $5,411.

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.