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Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1985

Vintage 1985 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 15038 18K YG Blue Dial 34 mm
Vintage 1985 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 15038 18K YG Blue Dial 34 mm

Vintage 1985 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 15038 18K YG Blue Dial 34 mm

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

An Uncommon Mid-Sized Flagship The reference 15038 represents a highly specific niche within the catalog, delivering the full precious metal construction typically reserved for the ...

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Recent Sales

Rolex Gold Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 15037 circa 1985
Rolex Gold Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 15037 circa 1985

Rolex Gold Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 15037 circa 1985

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 14K YG ref#15037, serial# 9.2 million circa 1985. 34mm diameter case with fluted bezel and pleasing original glossy black dial with applied gold indexes a...

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

ROLEX Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch circa 1985
ROLEX Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch circa 1985

ROLEX Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch circa 1985

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 14k yellow gold, Ref. 15037, serial 9.2 million, circa 1985. 34mm diameter case with fluted bezel and pleasing original glossy black dial with applied gol...

Category

Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Wristwatch with custom Peppermint Stick Dial circa 1985
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Wristwatch with custom Peppermint Stick Dial circa 1985

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Wristwatch with custom Peppermint Stick Dial circa 1985

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex stainless steel Oyster Perpetual wristwatch, Ref. 5500, serial number 8.6 million, circa 1985. 34mm case with smooth bezel, beautiful custom colored Peppermint Stick dial with ...

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

ROLEX Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch Ref 15037 circa 1985
ROLEX Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch Ref 15037 circa 1985

ROLEX Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch Ref 15037 circa 1985

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex 14K yellow gold Oyster Perpetual Date, Ref# 15037, serial 9.2 million, circa 1985. 34mm diameter case with fluted bezel, glossy black original dial with gold applied indexes a...

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch Ref 1500 circa 1985
Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch Ref 1500 circa 1985

Rolex Yellow Gold Oyster Perpetual Date Wristwatch Ref 1500 circa 1985

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref 1500 serial number 8.8 million circa 1985.

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Gold Shell Oyster Perpetual Date ref #15505 circa 1985
Rolex Gold Shell Oyster Perpetual Date ref #15505 circa 1985

Rolex Gold Shell Oyster Perpetual Date ref #15505 circa 1985

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex gold shell Oyster Perpetual Date ref #15505 34mm diameter case with smooth bezel serial #: 9.0 million circa 1985/86.

Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel, 18k Gold

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Vintage Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual 26mm 18k Yellow Gold Ref. 6718
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Vintage Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual 26mm 18k Yellow Gold Ref. 6718

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Located in Media, PA

Up for sale is a beautiful vintage Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual crafted in solid 18k yellow gold. This timeless, time-only dress watch features a classic smooth bezel, an elegant ch...

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Vintage 1969 Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1002 Two-Tone Mocha Dial Auto 34mm
Vintage 1969 Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1002 Two-Tone Mocha Dial Auto 34mm

Vintage 1969 Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1002 Two-Tone Mocha Dial Auto 34mm

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Located in New York, NY

A Foundational Rolex With Uncommon Warmth The reference 1002 is a cornerstone of the Rolex catalog, representing the purest expression of the Oyster Perpetual. It’s a watch built on...

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Vintage 1972 Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1005 Two Tone Silver Dial Auto 34mm
Vintage 1972 Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1005 Two Tone Silver Dial Auto 34mm

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Located in New York, NY

The Original Rolex Proposition The Oyster Perpetual is the foundation of the modern Rolex catalog. It combines the brand's two most important innovations, the water-resistant Oyster...

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Vintage 1982 Rolex Datejust 16013 Two-Tone Blue Sunburst Dial Automatic 36mm
Vintage 1982 Rolex Datejust 16013 Two-Tone Blue Sunburst Dial Automatic 36mm

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The Foundational Rolex With A Difference The two-tone Datejust is a cornerstone of the Rolex catalog, an icon of the 1980s that defined a generation of luxury. While champagne and s...

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Vintage 1976 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1503 14K YG Champagne Dial Auto 34mm
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The Foundation In Solid Gold The Oyster Perpetual Date is a direct descendant of the watches that built Rolex. It combines the brand's two foundational technologies, the waterproof ...

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Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone Champagne Dial Automatic 36mm
Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone Champagne Dial Automatic 36mm

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The Foundational Two-Tone Watch The Rolex Datejust is the benchmark. First released in 1945, it set the standard for a modern dress watch with its automatic movement and date functi...

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Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 36mm 18K Yellow Gold Ref 6105 Automatic Vintage 1952
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Located in Dallas, TX

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date – 18K Yellow Gold (Ref. 6105, Circa 1952) This exceptional vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date is a beautifully preserved example of early Rolex ...

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Vintage 1973 Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone Champagne Dial Auto 36mm
Vintage 1973 Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone Champagne Dial Auto 36mm

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Located in New York, NY

The Foundational Rolex The Datejust is the watch that defined the modern Rolex catalog. Introduced in 1945, it set the standard for a practical yet refined daily watch by combining ...

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Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 16018 18K Yellow Gold Purple Dial Automatic 36mm
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Solid Gold Presence, Uncommon Dial While the Datejust is the foundation of the Rolex catalog, this reference 16018 stands apart. The case is executed in solid 18K yellow gold, a sig...

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Vintage 1978 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1503 14K YG Champagne Dial Auto 34mm
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The Purest Form Of Rolex, In Solid Gold The Oyster Perpetual is the foundation from which every other Rolex model descended. It combines the brand's two most important innovations, ...

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Vintage 1974 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 18K YG 1503 Auto Champagne 34mm
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Located in New York, NY

The Foundation In Solid Gold The Oyster Perpetual Date is a foundational reference, representing a pure expression of Rolex's core technologies. For decades, it served as the elegan...

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Vintage 1978 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1501 14K YG Champagne Dial Auto 34mm

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A Classic In Solid Gold The reference 1501 is a pure expression of the classic Rolex design language. This example elevates the form by rendering the entire case and bezel in solid ...

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An automatique Ceinture large wrist-watch designed by Cartier. This is the rare large model of the Ceinture automatique wristwatch, created in Paris France by the jewelry house of C...

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This truly classic Tiffany & Co. quartz movement men's wrist watch epitomizes the luxury and elegance that Tiffany is perennially associated with. It is large, measuring a full 1 1/2...

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1989 Rolex 18K Yellow Gold Presidential Day Date Watch Model: 18238 Serial: L327924 This elegant 18K yellow gold men's Rolex features day/date settings and quickset design. Champa...

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Vintage 1990 Rolex Day-Date 18238 18K Yellow Gold Blue Dial Automatic 36mm

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ROLEX Watch. Rolex ref. 6426 Rare Subseconds Dial 1960s Mens Rolex watch.
ROLEX Watch. Rolex ref. 6426 Rare Subseconds Dial 1960s Mens Rolex watch.

ROLEX Watch. Rolex ref. 6426 Rare Subseconds Dial 1960s Mens Rolex watch.

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Vintage Rolex Mens Watch Stainless Steel Case ref.6426 / 6427 Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1960 New Leather Band. Beautiful Watch. 34 mm round Case

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Vintage Rolex Oyster Mens Watch Just underwent Full Service - Ready To Go Stainless Steel Case that is Gold Filled Capped ref.4365 Circa 1946 Condition: Windup Movement. Runs we...

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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.