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Rolex Rose Gold Bubbleback Wristwatch circa 1945
Rolex Rose Gold Bubbleback Wristwatch circa 1945

Rolex Rose Gold Bubbleback Wristwatch circa 1945

By Rolex

Located in Dallas, TX

Automatic movement. 14k rose gold case, 32mm, circa 1945. Black dial with both Arabic and Roman numerals, the so-called California dial. Pre-owned with custom box.

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, 14k Gold

Rolex Lady's Yellow Gold Wristwatch circa 1940s
Rolex Lady's Yellow Gold Wristwatch circa 1940s

Rolex Lady's Yellow Gold Wristwatch circa 1940s

By Rolex

Located in Dallas, TX

Manual-wind movement. 18k yellow gold case with unusual design, 16mm x 34mm. Silvered dial with gilt markers. Rope band. Pre-owned, circa 1940s.

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

9ct Yellow Gold 1940's Oversized 'Shock-Resisting' Rolex
9ct Yellow Gold 1940's Oversized 'Shock-Resisting' Rolex

9ct Yellow Gold 1940's Oversized 'Shock-Resisting' Rolex

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

9ct Yellow Gold 1940's Oversized 'Shock-Resisting' Rolex - 37mm 9ct Yellow Gold Case, Extremely

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

9k Gold

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubble Back 3131 Rose Gold Watch
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubble Back 3131 Rose Gold Watch

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubble Back 3131 Rose Gold Watch

By Rolex

Located in Great Neck, NY

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 3131 Watch. 34mm 14K rose gold case with 14K rose gold smooth bezel. Silver

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold

Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster perpetual Automatic Wristwatch, 1940s
Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster perpetual Automatic Wristwatch, 1940s

Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster perpetual Automatic Wristwatch, 1940s

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1948 Rolex Oyster perpetual Reference 1002 Wrist Watch 14K yellow Gold 34 MM 2 Piece Oyster

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Rolex 1940s Iconic Bubbleback Yellow Gold Wrist Watch
Rolex 1940s Iconic Bubbleback Yellow Gold Wrist Watch

Rolex 1940s Iconic Bubbleback Yellow Gold Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1940s Rolex Reference 3131 "Bubbleback" 32 M.M 14k Yellow Gold 3 piece Oyster case

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Wristwatch Retailed by Bucherer circa 1940s
Rolex Stainless Steel Wristwatch Retailed by Bucherer circa 1940s

Rolex Stainless Steel Wristwatch Retailed by Bucherer circa 1940s

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Offered in entirely original condition, this 1940s Rolex dress wristwatch was sold at esteemed

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 1940's Stainless-Steel Pink Markers & Special Lugs
Rolex 1940's Stainless-Steel Pink Markers & Special Lugs

Rolex 1940's Stainless-Steel Pink Markers & Special Lugs

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Rolex 1940's Stainless-Steel Pink Markers & Special Lugs

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Vintage Stainless Steel Dress Watch "Bull's-Eye" Dial
Rolex Vintage Stainless Steel Dress Watch "Bull's-Eye" Dial

Rolex Vintage Stainless Steel Dress Watch "Bull's-Eye" Dial

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Rolex Stainless Steel Dress Watch with "Bull's-Eye" Silver Arabic Dial. Manual wind, ref #4061

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX 1940's 18K Rose Gold/Stainless Steel Wristwatch
ROLEX 1940's 18K Rose Gold/Stainless Steel Wristwatch

ROLEX 1940's 18K Rose Gold/Stainless Steel Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

ROLEX 1940's One Inch Square 18K Rose Gold/Stainless Steel Wristwatch. Beautiful silver dial

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Watch Company Stainless Steel Gold Bezel Bubble Back Watch
Rolex Watch Company Stainless Steel Gold Bezel Bubble Back Watch

Rolex Watch Company Stainless Steel Gold Bezel Bubble Back Watch

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Bubble Back / 3133 / Oyster Perpetual

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

1940's "Bowtie" Dial with Scientific Markers & Rare Case Rolex

1940's "Bowtie" Dial with Scientific Markers & Rare Case Rolex

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Stainless-Steel "Bowtie" Dial with Scientific Markers & Rare Case by Rolex - circa 1940

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX "Star Dial" Rare Vintage Yellow Gold 1940's Wristwatch
ROLEX "Star Dial" Rare Vintage Yellow Gold 1940's Wristwatch

ROLEX "Star Dial" Rare Vintage Yellow Gold 1940's Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

reserved only for the most celebrated and finest vintage Rolex models and are most often seen on ref

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Bubbleback Pink Gold and Black California Dial Ref 3131
Rolex Bubbleback Pink Gold and Black California Dial Ref 3131

Rolex Bubbleback Pink Gold and Black California Dial Ref 3131

By Rolex

Located in Firenze, IT

Rolex California Dial Rolex, “Oyster Perpetual, Officially Certified Chronometer", Ref. 3131. Made

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Chronometer Bubbleback with Black Dial 1940's
Rolex Stainless Steel Chronometer Bubbleback with Black Dial 1940's

Rolex Stainless Steel Chronometer Bubbleback with Black Dial 1940's

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 2940 METAL

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Romabic Dial Viceroy Manual Watch
Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Romabic Dial Viceroy Manual Watch

Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Romabic Dial Viceroy Manual Watch

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Viceroy Two Tone / 3359 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Rolex Stainless Steel Waterproof Oyster Chronograph Wristwatch Ref 3525
Rolex Stainless Steel Waterproof Oyster Chronograph Wristwatch Ref 3525

Rolex Stainless Steel Waterproof Oyster Chronograph Wristwatch Ref 3525

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Unique waterproof chronograph with two register dial, gold hands and special blue track ring. Beautiful vintage condition. The track ring adds another dimension to the dial, without ...

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Steel Manual Wind Silver Dial Chronograph Antimagnetic 2508 Wristwatch
Rolex Steel Manual Wind Silver Dial Chronograph Antimagnetic 2508 Wristwatch

Rolex Steel Manual Wind Silver Dial Chronograph Antimagnetic 2508 Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

by Rolex) with an original stainless steel pin buckle, plastic glass, snap back case, manual wind

Category

Vintage 1940s Unknown Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vinatge Rolex Zephyr Ref 6582 18k Yellow Gold Automatic Wrist Watch
Vinatge Rolex Zephyr Ref 6582 18k Yellow Gold Automatic Wrist Watch

Vinatge Rolex Zephyr Ref 6582 18k Yellow Gold Automatic Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1946 Rolex Reference 6582 "Zephyr" Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. 18k Yellow Gold 3 Piece Case with

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Precision Vintage Dresswatch, H/M 9K Yellow Gold, c 1948
Rolex Precision Vintage Dresswatch, H/M 9K Yellow Gold, c 1948

Rolex Precision Vintage Dresswatch, H/M 9K Yellow Gold, c 1948

By Rolex

Located in Canterbury, England

Our vintage and rare Rolex Precision features a hallmarked 9k yellow gold case (30mm exc crown

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Rolex Rare Rose Gold Prince Imperial Open Face Pocket Watch
Rolex Rare Rose Gold Prince Imperial Open Face Pocket Watch

Rolex Rare Rose Gold Prince Imperial Open Face Pocket Watch

By Rolex

Located in Dallas, TX

Rolex rare 18k rose gold Prince Imperial open face pocket watch, circa. 1940s, manual-wind movement

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, 18k Gold

ROLEX 1940's Unique Stylized Lugs Yellow Gold Dress Watch

ROLEX 1940's Unique Stylized Lugs Yellow Gold Dress Watch

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

A 1940's yellow gold wristwatch especially desirable for its stylized lugs. Kept in excellent condition, the watch looks and runs great. Measuring 34mm, this is the perfect dress wat...

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Rose Gold Bubble Back Transportation Dial Perpetual Wind Watch
Rolex Rose Gold Bubble Back Transportation Dial Perpetual Wind Watch

Rolex Rose Gold Bubble Back Transportation Dial Perpetual Wind Watch

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Bubble Back / Art Deco METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

1946 Rolex Precision Full Size Vintage Mens Handwound Dress Watch - SS
1946 Rolex Precision Full Size Vintage Mens Handwound Dress Watch - SS

1946 Rolex Precision Full Size Vintage Mens Handwound Dress Watch - SS

By Rolex

Located in Suwanee, GA

. 1946 ROLEX PRECISION Full Size Vintage Mens Handwound Dress Watch - Stainless Steel Pleasing & Elegant

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking with Original Dial and Hands from 1947
Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking with Original Dial and Hands from 1947

Rolex Stainless Steel Speedking with Original Dial and Hands from 1947

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Speedking / Reference 4220 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Speedking Precision Wristwatch Ref 4220, 1946

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Speedking Precision Wristwatch Ref 4220, 1946

By Rolex

Located in Firenze, IT

with a stainless steel Rolex buckle. Case : Two-body, polished and brushed, screwed-down case back and

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Square Bubble Back Wristwatch Ref 4643
Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Square Bubble Back Wristwatch Ref 4643

Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Square Bubble Back Wristwatch Ref 4643

By Rolex

Located in Stamford, CT

Rare original Rolex reference 4643 1940’s square bubble back officially certified Chronometer solid

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

1945 Rolex Oyster Imperial Viceroy 9k Yellow Gold Gent's Wrist Watch
1945 Rolex Oyster Imperial Viceroy 9k Yellow Gold Gent's Wrist Watch

1945 Rolex Oyster Imperial Viceroy 9k Yellow Gold Gent's Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A fine vintage Rolex Oyster Imperial Viceroy gents wrist watch in 9 karat yellow gold; part of our

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

9k Gold, Yellow Gold

1941 ROLEX OYSTER NEPTUNE Vintage "Boys" Size WWII Military Style Watch
1941 ROLEX OYSTER NEPTUNE Vintage "Boys" Size WWII Military Style Watch

1941 ROLEX OYSTER NEPTUNE Vintage "Boys" Size WWII Military Style Watch

By Rolex

Located in Suwanee, GA

with a 5.0 star rating. 1941 ROLEX OYSTER NEPTUNE Vintage Mens Midsize "Boys" WWII Military Style

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Fantastic Stainless Steel and Rose Gold Wristwatch circa 1940s
Rolex Fantastic Stainless Steel and Rose Gold Wristwatch circa 1940s

Rolex Fantastic Stainless Steel and Rose Gold Wristwatch circa 1940s

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Of the great and important vintage Rolex dress watches we have had the pleasures of selling, this

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, Stainless Steel, 18k Gold

1947 Rolex Precision Vintage Mens "Jumbo" Watch - 14K Gold & Stainless Steel
1947 Rolex Precision Vintage Mens "Jumbo" Watch - 14K Gold & Stainless Steel

1947 Rolex Precision Vintage Mens "Jumbo" Watch - 14K Gold & Stainless Steel

By Rolex

Located in Suwanee, GA

other online sites. 1947 ROLEX PRECISION Vintage Mens "Jumbo" Watch - 14K Gold & Stainless Steel Rare

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Ladies Rose Gold French Retro Star Dial Bracelet Manual Wristwatch
Rolex Ladies Rose Gold French Retro Star Dial Bracelet Manual Wristwatch

Rolex Ladies Rose Gold French Retro Star Dial Bracelet Manual Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

of the hour stations and is framed by a crownlike design, which clearly is inspired by Rolex

Category

Vintage 1940s French Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Rolex Retro Diamond Ruby 14 Karat Gold Watch Bracelet
Rolex Retro Diamond Ruby 14 Karat Gold Watch Bracelet

Rolex Retro Diamond Ruby 14 Karat Gold Watch Bracelet

By Rolex

Located in Philadelphia, PA

polished gold geometric loops terminating as a hinged fold-over clasp Features manual-winding Rolex

Category

Vintage 1940s Retro Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum

Rolex Stainless Steel and Rose Gold Firefly Bubbleback Wristwatch Ref 3121
Rolex Stainless Steel and Rose Gold Firefly Bubbleback Wristwatch Ref 3121

Rolex Stainless Steel and Rose Gold Firefly Bubbleback Wristwatch Ref 3121

By Rolex

Located in Stamford, CT

Stainless steel and 18k rose gold Rolex Firefly bubbleback, Ref. 3121, circa 1942, 28.5mm case

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Bubbleback Wristwatch with Hooded Lugs
Rolex Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Bubbleback Wristwatch with Hooded Lugs

Rolex Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Bubbleback Wristwatch with Hooded Lugs

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Boasting the first automatic movement in a Rolex Oyster case, the bubbleback has always been a

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Rose Gold Viceroy Wristwatch Ref 3359 with California Dial circa 1940
Rolex Rose Gold Viceroy Wristwatch Ref 3359 with California Dial circa 1940

Rolex Rose Gold Viceroy Wristwatch Ref 3359 with California Dial circa 1940

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Unbelievably rare and handsome early example of a 1940s Rolex Viceroy in 18k rose gold. Manual wind

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, 18k Gold

1940's 18K Pink Gold Watch sold by 'Serpico y Laino' by Rolex
1940's 18K Pink Gold Watch sold by 'Serpico y Laino' by Rolex

1940's 18K Pink Gold Watch sold by 'Serpico y Laino' by Rolex

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

An 18 Karat Pink Gold Watch sold by 'Serpico y Laino' by Rolex - sub-second hand, honey-comb dial

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Rolex Cellini 27mm Dial Manual Winding Watch Face
Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Rolex Cellini 27mm Dial Manual Winding Watch Face

Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Rolex Cellini 27mm Dial Manual Winding Watch Face

By Rolex

Located in Miami, FL

A rare vintage Rolex Cellini watch face in solid 18K yellow gold, featuring a classic 27mm dial

Category

Vintage 1940s Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

1940's ROLEX PRECISION Vintage Mens Rare Ref. 3923 18K Rose Gold & SS
1940's ROLEX PRECISION Vintage Mens Rare Ref. 3923 18K Rose Gold & SS

1940's ROLEX PRECISION Vintage Mens Rare Ref. 3923 18K Rose Gold & SS

By Rolex

Located in Suwanee, GA

other online sites. 1940's ROLEX PRECISION Vintage Mens Ref. 3923 Coin Edge Watch - 18K Rose Gold

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, Stainless Steel

ROLEX 1940's Rose Gold Dress Watch

ROLEX 1940's Rose Gold Dress Watch

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

ROLEX 1940's Rose Gold Dress Watch

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

1940's Oversized Stainless Steel Ref# 4498 Vintage Rolex
1940's Oversized Stainless Steel Ref# 4498 Vintage Rolex

1940's Oversized Stainless Steel Ref# 4498 Vintage Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

1940's Oversized Stainless Steel Vintage Rolex -Like-new condition -Special Lugs

Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch, circa 1949
Rolex Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch, circa 1949

Rolex Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch, circa 1949

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1949 Rolex Reference 1003, 34 MM & Steel 2 piece case. Caliber 1520 Automatic, self winding

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

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Rolex 1949 For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the rolex 1949 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 Gold, Stainless Steel and 18k Gold. If you’re looking for a rolex 1949 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 20th Century. A rolex 1949 of any era or style can lend versatility to your look, but a version featuring Diamond, from our inventory of 3, is particularly popular. Today, if you’re looking for a round cut version of this piece and are unable to find the perfect match, our selection also includes alternatives. Finding a rolex 1949 for sale for men should be easy, but there are 120 pieces available to browse for unisex as well as women, too.

How Much is a Rolex 1949?

Prices for a rolex 1949 can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $1,434 and can go as high as $68,000, while this accessory, on average, fetches $4,750.

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 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
    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
    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
    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.
  • 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
    A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
  • 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 ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    There is no single rarest Rolex face, as the availability of the luxury watchmaker's timepieces does vary in response to changes in collecting trends. However, some faces are generally rarer than others due to limited production, age and other factors. Examples of such dials include those made of meteorite, onyx, malachite, bloodstone, tiger's eye, coral, wood and lapis lazuli. Find a wide range of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    What is the cheapest Rolex ever made may vary over time as the luxury maker introduces new models. However, some watches made by Rolex are generally considered entry-level models based on their price points. These include the Oyster Perpetual, the DateJust 36mm, the Explorer 36mm, the Air King and the Milgaus. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of Rolex watches.
  • 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.