Rolex Steel Oyster Perpetual Classic Air King from 1979 or 1980
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Rolex Air King 1980
Rolex Steel Air-King with Custom Diamond Dial and Diamond Bezel circa 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 1002 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air-King with Custom Diamond Dial and Diamond Bezel circa 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500-1002 METAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air King with Custom MOP Dial And Diamond Bezel circa 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 / 1002 METAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Vintage Rolex Air-King Pool Intairdril 5500 Watch
By Rolex
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A mens 34mm vintage Air King wristwatch by Rolex. Features a silver dial with applied hour markers
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air King with Custom MOP Dial And Diamond Bezel circa 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500/1002 METAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Custom M.O.P Gray Dial circa 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 1002 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air King with Custom M.O.P Diamond Dial and Diamond Bezel 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500-1002 METAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air-King with Custom Green Dial And Diamond Bezel
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500-1002 METAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air-King with Custom Diamond Dial and Diamond and Emerald Bezel
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500-1002 METAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Original Dial Ca 1970 /80's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air-King with Custom Blue Dial and Diamond Bezel circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Original Dial circa, 1970's 80's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
olex Steel Air-King with Custom Diamond Dial and Diamond and Emerald Bezel
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500-1002 METAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Recent Sales
Vintage Rolex Air-King Reference 14000 Stainless Steel Watch, 1989
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
1989 Rolex Air-King Ref. 14000 Stainless Steel watch with Original RARE Charcoal Black Dial with
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Vintage Rolex Air-King Reference 5500 Stainless Steel Watch, 1981
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
1981 Vintage Rolex Air-King Ref. 5500 Stainless Steel watch with Original Silver Dial with Applied
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Rolex yellow Gold Stainless Steel Air King Precision Date Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in Ottawa, Ontario
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King 34mm with date pre-owned wristwatch Ref # 5701N/3, silvered dial
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Air King 5500
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
Watch: Rolex Air King 5500 Stock Number: CHW6231 We have just had this classic Rolex Air King 5500
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air King Custom Dial Original Oyster Bracelet from 1980 or 1981
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Ref. 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air-King Wristwatch Ref 5500 circa 1985
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Rolex Stainless Steel Air-King Wristwatch, Ref. 5500, with a caliber 1520 Self-Winding Movement
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King Automatic Wristwatch Ref 14000, 1987
By Rolex
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Ref: W4294 Model Number: 14000 Serial Number: U33**** Condition: 9 - Excellent Condition Age: 15th July 1987 Case Size: 34mm Box and Papers: Box and Guarantee Movement: Automatic Ca...
Category
Vintage 1980s Hong Kong Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Air-King Gents Stainless Steel Silver Dominos Pizza Dial 5500
By Rolex
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A 34 mm Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Air-King Gents Wristwatch, silver dial with applied hour
Category
Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches
Materials
Silver, Stainless Steel
1984 Rolex 34 MM Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Air King Snoopy Watch
By Rolex
Located in Philadelphia, PA
With 'Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air King' and 'Swiss ' Inscribed on face with raised logo With glass
Category
Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches
Materials
Steel, Stainless Steel
Rolex Air-King Ref 5500 Wristwatch, Silver Dial, Oyster Bracelet, B&P's, 1987
By Rolex
Located in Canterbury, England
Our vintage Rolex Air-King reference 5500 features a 34mm stainless steel case with stainless steel
Category
Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches
Rolex Stainless Steel Domino's Pizza Logo Dial Air King Wristwatch, circa 1980s
By Rolex
Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
ideal gift. Once upon a time, Rolex offered the service of applying corporate logos to the dials of
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Original Charcoal Dial, Early 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Watch STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Rolex Steel Oyster Perpetual Classic Air King from 1979 or 1980
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / 5500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches
Rolex Steel Air King Custom Red Dial Original Oyster Bracelet, Early 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Ref. 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Air King with Original Silver Dial 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Air King / Reference 5500
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Silver, Stainless Steel
Rolex Air King with Custom Dial and Original Oyster Bracelet from 1980 or 1981
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Ref. 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Rolex Air King with Custom Dial and Original Oyster Bracelet from 1980 or 1981
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Ref. 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Rolex Air King 5500 Stainless Steel Leather Band
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 5500 Serial: 6292*** Model: Air King Case Material: Stainless Steel
Category
Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air King with Custom Dial, circa 1984 or 1985
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / 5500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Original Dial Ca 1970 /80's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Original Dial circa, 1970/80's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Vintage Rolex Air King 5520 Gold Shell Wristwatch Box Papers 1 Owner
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1982 Rolex Air King Reference 5520 Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. Gold Shell 2 Piece case with
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Rolex Steel Air-King with Custom Blue Dial and Diamond Bezel circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Papers, Box, And Original Dial circa, 1988
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Air-King Precision 5500 Men's Watch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Air-King Precision 5500 Men Watch. 34mm Stainless Steel case. Stainless Steel None bezel
Category
Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches
Rolex Air-King 5500, Black Dial, Certified and Warranty
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Air-King Reference #: 5500. Mens Automatic Self Wind Watch Stainless Steel Black 34 MM
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches
Rolex Air-King 5500, Case, Certified and Warranty
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Air-King Reference #:5500. Rolex Mens/Ladies 34mm Stainless Steel Air-King - Automatic
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
ROLEX Stainless Steel Air-King Wristwatch Ref 5500
By Rolex
Located in Verona, IT
Stainless steel Rolex Air-King, Ref. 5500, circa 1980s. Blue dial with applied indexes and baton
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King Wristwatch Ref 5500
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Pre-Owned Air King 34mm stainless steel Rolex. This timepiece has a smooth bezel, silvered index
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Air-King Automatic Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Air-King Wristwatch Factory Silvered Dial with Applied Hour
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Air-King 5500, Silver Dial, Certified and Warranty
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Air-King Reference #: 5500. Mens Automatic Self Wind Watch Stainless Steel Silver 34 MM
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches
Rolex Stainless Steel Air-King Wristwatch with Custom-Colored Dial Ref 5500
By Rolex
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Rolex stainless steel Air-King wristwatch, Ref. 5500, circa 1980s. This beautiful classic Rolex
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex for Tiffany & Co. Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Air-King Watch, 1980s
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Air-King Watch Beautiful Factory Silver Dial
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air-King Wristwatch with custom Hunter Green Dial c. 1984
Sold
W 1.34 in Dm 1.34 in
Rolex Stainless Steel Air-King Wristwatch with custom Hunter Green Dial c. 1984
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Rolex stainless steel Oyster Perpetual Air-King wristwatch, Ref. 5500, serial number 8.1 million
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Air-King Automatic Wristwatch, 1980s
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Air-King Stainless Steel Watch Factory Silver Dial with
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
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Rolex Oyster Date Precision Stainless Steel Men's Wristwatch Ref 6066
By Rolex
Located in Stamford, CT
Mid-Century all original, 1951 Rolex stainless steel oyster date precision wristwatch. Red date wheel. Original ruby steel riveted oyster band. Unpolished, minor scratches to case an...
Category
Mid-20th Century Wrist Watches
Materials
Steel, Stainless Steel
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
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust with Custom Sage Green Dial 1960s
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Reference 1601 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel with White Gold Bezel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Leng...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Rolex Datejust 36mm Automatic Watch
By Rolex
Located in Coral Gables, FL
Pre-Owned Rolex 36mm Stainless Steel Datejust Featuring A Black Stick Dial & Polished Bezel On Oyster Bracelet. Model 16200, K Serial Number circa 2000. Polished and Serviced August ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 26mm Steel Custom Turquoise Diamond Dial Ladies Watch 69174
$6,299
H 1.03 in W 0.44 in Dm 1.03 in
Rolex Datejust 26mm Steel Custom Turquoise Diamond Dial Ladies Watch 69174
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned in good condition. No original box and papers. Custom aftermarket dial. 1 year seller warranty. General Information: Brand: Rolex Model: Rolex Datejust Model Number: 69174...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Steel
Rolex Steel and 14Kt. Solid Gold Oyster Perpetual with Original Dial Mid 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 7008 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel and 14Kt. Gold CIRCA / YEAR: Mid 1960's DIMENSIONS / SI...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold, Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual With Custom Sage Green Dial circa, 1980's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 1002 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1980's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm X Diam...
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Original Brushed Dial & Solid Link Bracelet 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: Mid-1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X Diame...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Custom Pistachio Green Dial and Diamond 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 43mm X Diameter 3...
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Rare Blue "Vignette" Dial 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43mm X Diameter 3...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust with Custom Dial and Bezel circa, 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Reference 1601 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43mm X Diameter 36m...
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex Vintage 1966 Steel Air-king Automatic with Sunburst Dial
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1966 Rolex Air-King Reference 5500. 34 M.M. Stainless Steel 3 Piece Oyster case. Caliber 1520 Automatic, Self winding movement, excellent Mint condition Silver Satin "Sunburst"...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Steel
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 Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Yellow Dial circa, 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43mm X Diameter 3...
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
Rolex President Datejust 26mm 18K Gold Emerald & Diamond Ladies Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex President Datejust 26mm Ladies Ref. 69178 Diamond and Emerald Bezel and Dial 18K Yellow Gold Wrist Watch. Set with aftermarket gemstones and bezel. All other parts original R...
Category
1990s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches
Materials
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rolex President 1803 Day-Date 18K Gold 36mm Watch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex President 1803 Day-Date 18k Gold Watch with Aftermarket MOP Diamond Dial. Luxury at its finest. Material: 18k Yellow Gold Model: President Day-Date Ref: 1803 Movement: Swiss ...
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
18k Gold
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Rolex Air King 1980 For Sale on 1stDibs
On 1stDibs, you can find the most appropriate rolex air king 1980 for your needs in our varied inventory. Frequently made of stainless steel, 18k gold and gold, this item was constructed with great care. A rolex air king 1980 of any era or style can lend versatility to your look, but a version featuring diamond, from our inventory of 4, 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 air king 1980 for sale for men should be easy, but there are 9 pieces available to browse for unisex as well as women, too.
How Much is a Rolex Air King 1980?
The price for a rolex air king 1980 starts at $4,600 and tops out at $15,200 with these watches, on average, selling for $6,500.
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
- Does Rolex make sunglasses?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, 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.
- How to wind a datejust rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To 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.
- What is the cheapest Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The 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, 2021While 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, 2021The 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.
- What diamonds do Rolex use?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Rolex 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, 2021One 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, 2021A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The 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.
- What is the rarest Rolex face?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024There 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, 2024What 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.
- What size is a 126000 Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024The size of a Rolex 126000 is 36 millimeters. It features a corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel case. Many collectors love the now discontinued watch due to this striking feature, which was available in a variety of vivid colors. Find an assortment of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Yes, the Rolex 126000 is discontinued. Rolex discontinued the Oyster Perpetual ref 126000 in the early 2020s. However, the watch may be available on the secondary market via trusted online platforms, including 1stDibs. Find a collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
- How do I wind a Rolex watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To 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 ExpertApril 5, 2022A 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.
- Does Rolex use real diamonds?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Rolex 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.
- Is Panerai better than Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Depending 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 ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The 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 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.
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