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Rolex Tropical

Rolex Submariner Date Violet/Tropical Dial Service Papers
Rolex Submariner Date Violet/Tropical Dial Service Papers

Rolex Submariner Date Violet/Tropical Dial Service Papers

By Rolex

Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA

BRAND: Rolex MODEL: Submariner Date REFRENCE: 16618 SIZE: 40mm CASE: 18k Yellow Gold DIAL: Blue BEZEL: Blue BAND: Oyster 18k Yellow Gold MOVEMENT: Automatic Highly desirable violet/...

Category

1990s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Gold, 18k Gold

Rolex Datejust 16234 Tropical Stardust Dial 36mm Circa 1988 Watch
Rolex Datejust 16234 Tropical Stardust Dial 36mm Circa 1988 Watch

Rolex Datejust 16234 Tropical Stardust Dial 36mm Circa 1988 Watch

By Rolex

Located in Miami, FL

Tropical Rolex dials are collectible because no two age in exactly the same way, and this example has aged with unusually strong visual character.

Category

Vintage 1980s Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex 6305 RED Datejust Rare TROPICAL DIAL Stainless Steel 36mm
Vintage Rolex 6305 RED Datejust Rare TROPICAL DIAL Stainless Steel 36mm

Vintage Rolex 6305 RED Datejust Rare TROPICAL DIAL Stainless Steel 36mm

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 6305 Serial: 572** Year: 1960 Model: Rolex Datejust ("Red" Datejust) Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Stainless Steel Dial: O...

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Precision Disco Volante 9919 36mm Tropical Dial Yellow Gold
Vintage Rolex Precision Disco Volante 9919 36mm Tropical Dial Yellow Gold

Vintage Rolex Precision Disco Volante 9919 36mm Tropical Dial Yellow Gold

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 9919 Model: Rolex Precision Case Material: 18k Yellow Gold Band: Custom 14k Yellow Gold Bracelet Dial: Rare Tropical Dial Crystal: Acrylic Crystal Case S...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6565 34mm Tropical Dial Stainless Steel Leather
Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6565 34mm Tropical Dial Stainless Steel Leather

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6565 34mm Tropical Dial Stainless Steel Leather

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 6565 Serial: 341*** Year: 1958 Model: Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Custom Leather Strap Bezel: Stainless Steel Dial: Tropi...

Category

Mid-20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner Date 16803 Tropical Bue Dial 18k Yellow Gold Steel Box Paper
Rolex Submariner Date 16803 Tropical Bue Dial 18k Yellow Gold Steel Box Paper

Rolex Submariner Date 16803 Tropical Bue Dial 18k Yellow Gold Steel Box Paper

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 16803 Serial: R363*** Year: 1988 Model: Rolex Submariner Date Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: 18k Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Bezel: Blue Dial:...

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner Date Blue 16613 40mm Tropical Serti Diamond Dial 18k Gold Steel
Rolex Submariner Date Blue 16613 40mm Tropical Serti Diamond Dial 18k Gold Steel

Rolex Submariner Date Blue 16613 40mm Tropical Serti Diamond Dial 18k Gold Steel

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 16613 Serial: K71**** Year: 2001 Model: Rolex Submariner Date Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: 18k Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Bezel: Blue Dial...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Stainless Steel

Rolex Gold Top Tropical Series Steel Back Early Ladies Perpetual from 1947
Rolex Gold Top Tropical Series Steel Back Early Ladies Perpetual from 1947

Rolex Gold Top Tropical Series Steel Back Early Ladies Perpetual from 1947

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Ladies Bubble Back / Tropical Series METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt.

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Rolex Submariner Tropical Brown Glossy Gilt Dial 5512 Steel Automatic Watch 1960
Rolex Submariner Tropical Brown Glossy Gilt Dial 5512 Steel Automatic Watch 1960

Rolex Submariner Tropical Brown Glossy Gilt Dial 5512 Steel Automatic Watch 1960

By Rolex

Located in Central & Western District, HK

Brand: Vintage Rolex Model: 5512 Year: 1960 Serial number: 55xxxx Reference: C03729; C03603 Case: Show sign of wear with slight polish from previous; inner case back stamped 5512 II...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1500 Mens 1970s 34mm Vintage Automatic RA772C
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1500 Mens 1970s 34mm Vintage Automatic RA772C

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1500 Mens 1970s 34mm Vintage Automatic RA772C

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous, unrestored Rolex signed white tropical dial, Roman numeral and applied baton index hour markers, silver minute and hour hands, sw...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1500 34mm 1970s Mens Automatic All Original RA772
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1500 34mm 1970s Mens Automatic All Original RA772

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1500 34mm 1970s Mens Automatic All Original RA772

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous, unrestored Rolex signed white tropical dial, Roman numeral and applied baton index hour markers, silver minute and hour hands, sw...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 6564 Oyster Perpetual 1950s Mens 34mm Gold-Capped Vintage Automatic RA789B
Rolex 6564 Oyster Perpetual 1950s Mens 34mm Gold-Capped Vintage Automatic RA789B

Rolex 6564 Oyster Perpetual 1950s Mens 34mm Gold-Capped Vintage Automatic RA789B

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rolex signed tropicalized ivory white dial, applied baton index hour markers, silver minute and hour hands, sweeping central secon...

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, Gold Plate, Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6564 34mm Mens Gold-Capped Vintage Automatic 1950s RA789
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6564 34mm Mens Gold-Capped Vintage Automatic 1950s RA789

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6564 34mm Mens Gold-Capped Vintage Automatic 1950s RA789

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rolex signed tropicalized ivory white dial, applied baton index hour markers, silver minute and hour hands, sweeping central secon...

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel, Gold, Gold Plate

Rolex Oyster Solid 18k Gold Ladies 1930s Manual Wind Cocktail Watch RA639
Rolex Oyster Solid 18k Gold Ladies 1930s Manual Wind Cocktail Watch RA639

Rolex Oyster Solid 18k Gold Ladies 1930s Manual Wind Cocktail Watch RA639

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rolex signed tropicalized champagne dial, Roman numeral and index hour markers, minute and hour hands, hands and dial in very good...

Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Retro Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1500 34mm 1970s Mens Vintage Automatic RA772B
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1500 34mm 1970s Mens Vintage Automatic RA772B

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1500 34mm 1970s Mens Vintage Automatic RA772B

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous, unrestored Rolex signed white tropical dial, Roman numeral and applied baton index hour markers, silver minute and hour hands, sw...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Recent Sales

Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Tropical Dial wristwatch
Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Tropical Dial wristwatch

Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Tropical Dial wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Paris, FR

Fine and very rare stainless steel self winding wristwatch with tropical dial.

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner Ref 16610 Tropical Tritium, circa 1990
Rolex Submariner Ref 16610 Tropical Tritium, circa 1990

Rolex Submariner Ref 16610 Tropical Tritium, circa 1990

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

A great looking circa 1990 Rolex Submariner ref# 16610 with lightly patina’d luminous tritium indexes, matching patina’d tritium hands, and matching lightly patina’d pearl. Featurin...

Category

1990s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 Men's Stainless Steel Watch Brown Tropical Dial
Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 Men's Stainless Steel Watch Brown Tropical Dial

Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 Men's Stainless Steel Watch Brown Tropical Dial

By Rolex

Located in Sherman Oaks, CA

Model: Precision (17-Jewel Hand-Winding Movement) Model #6694 Serial #8270XX Year: 1953 Movement #1215 Movement Serial #372XX Stainless Steel Case w/ Smooth Bezel 33 mm in Diameter (...

Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex GMT Root Beer Tropical Brown Nipple Dial Yellow Gold Model 1675 circa 1978
Rolex GMT Root Beer Tropical Brown Nipple Dial Yellow Gold Model 1675 circa 1978

Rolex GMT Root Beer Tropical Brown Nipple Dial Yellow Gold Model 1675 circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in Houston, TX

Brand: Rolex Model: GMT Metal: 18k Yellow Gold Size: 40mm Dial: Brown Nipple Dial "Root Beer" Tropical Model Number: 1675 Age: 1978 Serial Number: 59064** Band: Custom Leath...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rare Rolex James Bond Submariner circa 1966 Watch Ref. #5513
Rare Rolex James Bond Submariner circa 1966 Watch Ref. #5513

Rare Rolex James Bond Submariner circa 1966 Watch Ref. #5513

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

In the vintage Rolex world, the term "Tropical" points out that the dial has discolored due to chemical reactions caused by external factors such as sunlight.

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Tropical Brown Dial Stainless Steel Red Submariner Ref 1680
Rolex Tropical Brown Dial Stainless Steel Red Submariner Ref 1680

Rolex Tropical Brown Dial Stainless Steel Red Submariner Ref 1680

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

This is the ultimate Rolex red Submariner for the dedicated collector.

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel No-Date Submariner Wristwatch Ref 5512
Rolex Stainless Steel No-Date Submariner Wristwatch Ref 5512

Rolex Stainless Steel No-Date Submariner Wristwatch Ref 5512

By Rolex

Located in Stamford, CT

Rolex no date original Tropical dial and bezel rim submariner.

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Explorer Tropical Dial 1016
Rolex Explorer Tropical Dial 1016

Rolex Explorer Tropical Dial 1016

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A 36mm, vintage Rolex Explorer in stainless steel. Featuring a distinctive rare tropical dial with arabic numbers and a smooth, fixed stainless steel bezel.

Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Vintage GMT-Master Pepsi Tropical Dial 1675
Rolex Vintage GMT-Master Pepsi Tropical Dial 1675

Rolex Vintage GMT-Master Pepsi Tropical Dial 1675

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A vintage GMT-Master Pepsi in stainless steel by Rolex. Features a matte black gilt dial which over time has transformed into what is known as a Tropical dial.

Category

20th Century European Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Explorer Vintage Gents Stainless Steel Tropical Dial 1016
Rolex Explorer Vintage Gents Stainless Steel Tropical Dial 1016

Rolex Explorer Vintage Gents Stainless Steel Tropical Dial 1016

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Explorer Vintage Gents Wristwatch, tropical dial with hour markers and arabic numbers 3, 6 & 9, a fixed stainless steel smooth bezel, a stainless s...

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Gilt Tropical Dial Wristwatch Ref 1500
Rolex Stainless Steel Gilt Tropical Dial Wristwatch Ref 1500

Rolex Stainless Steel Gilt Tropical Dial Wristwatch Ref 1500

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

A super cool vintage piece with which to begin your collection or add to your existing inventory of vintage novelties, offered with the original papers and at an attractive price, pa...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Datejust Tropical Patina Wristwatch
Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Datejust Tropical Patina Wristwatch

Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Datejust Tropical Patina Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

A truly vintage looking vintage time piece with a distinctive tropical patina enhanced by original stylized hands. Rose gold and stainless steel models from this era are exceedingly ...

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, Stainless Steel

Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner Ref. #1680 with “Tropical” Dial
Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner Ref. #1680 with “Tropical” Dial

Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner Ref. #1680 with “Tropical” Dial

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Easily distinguished from its counterparts by the tropical purple color-change dial, this is a unique example of a vintage Submariner. This watch has been guarded in beautiful origin...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Daytona Cosmograph Tropical Wristwatch Model 6239
Rolex Stainless Steel Daytona Cosmograph Tropical Wristwatch Model 6239

Rolex Stainless Steel Daytona Cosmograph Tropical Wristwatch Model 6239

By Rolex

Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire

Specifications Movement: Mechanical Wind Case: Stainless Steel Case Diameter: 37mm Dial: Silvered with black sub dials, colour changing to chocolate brown (slight patina to sil...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel "Tropical" Daytona Wristwatch Ref 6263 circa 1970s
Rolex Stainless Steel "Tropical" Daytona Wristwatch Ref 6263 circa 1970s

Rolex Stainless Steel "Tropical" Daytona Wristwatch Ref 6263 circa 1970s

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

This Ref. 6263, already quite desirable, has color-change "tropical" brown sub dial with silver printing, a unique characteristic that makes this piece among the most desirable of vi...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Wristwatch with "Tropical" Brown Dial
Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Wristwatch with "Tropical" Brown Dial

Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Wristwatch with "Tropical" Brown Dial

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

For the vintage Rolex purist who rejects any replacement parts, we offer an entirely original "red" Submariner, Ref. 1680.

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer Wristwatch Ref 5504 with Tropical Dial
Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer Wristwatch Ref 5504 with Tropical Dial

Rolex Stainless Steel Explorer Wristwatch Ref 5504 with Tropical Dial

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

An early Rolex stainless steel Explorer wristwatch, Ref. 5504, circa 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Daytona Tropical Sub Dials Wristwatch Ref 6263
Rolex Stainless Steel Daytona Tropical Sub Dials Wristwatch Ref 6263

Rolex Stainless Steel Daytona Tropical Sub Dials Wristwatch Ref 6263

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Among the more coveted variations of this ever-popular model, the interest and collect ability level of this piece is augmented by the color-change brown “tropical” sub dials. In per...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Yellow Gold Submariner Tropical Intense Color-Change Dial Wristwatch
Rolex Yellow Gold Submariner Tropical Intense Color-Change Dial Wristwatch

Rolex Yellow Gold Submariner Tropical Intense Color-Change Dial Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

A phenomenal and rare example of a yellow gold 1680 Submariner offered in mint condition. Tropical color change dial sport watches continue to grow in popularity among collectors. Th...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Pre-Owned Rolex “Turning Tropical” Matte Dial GMT Ref. #1675
Pre-Owned Rolex “Turning Tropical” Matte Dial GMT Ref. #1675

Pre-Owned Rolex “Turning Tropical” Matte Dial GMT Ref. #1675

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

This is a handsome example of a matte dial GMT noted for its beautiful, creamy patina, faded insert, original Rolex USA bracelet stamped “’67”, original date wheel and thick case. Th...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Submariner Tropical Meters First Wristwatch Ref 1680
Rolex Stainless Steel Submariner Tropical Meters First Wristwatch Ref 1680

Rolex Stainless Steel Submariner Tropical Meters First Wristwatch Ref 1680

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

With red Submariners increased popularity in today's market, this is an example that supercedes its more standard counterparts in the exclusivity department. In person, the dial of...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Wristwatch with "Tropical" Brown Dial
Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Wristwatch with "Tropical" Brown Dial

Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Wristwatch with "Tropical" Brown Dial

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

The superior condition of this piece offers exclusivity in a red Submariner. The watch retains its original hands and meters-first dial, which is beginning to change color and curr...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel GMT-Master Bakelite Pepsi Tropical Dial Wristwatch
Rolex Stainless Steel GMT-Master Bakelite Pepsi Tropical Dial Wristwatch

Rolex Stainless Steel GMT-Master Bakelite Pepsi Tropical Dial Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire

Ref: COM792 Model: 6542 Serial: 262*** Condition: 8 - Good condition Age: 1957 Case Diameter: 38 mm Case Size: 38mm Box and Papers: Box Only Movement: Automatic Case: Stainless Steel...

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

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Rolex Tropical For Sale on 1stDibs

Find the exact rolex tropical you’re shopping for in the variety available on 1stDibs. Frequently made of Stainless Steel, Gold and 18k Gold, this item was constructed with great care. Find an antique version now, or shop for 67 vintage or 1 modern creation for a more contemporary example of these cherished accessories. If you’re looking for a rolex tropical 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 21st Century. Finding a rolex tropical 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 Tropical?

Prices for a rolex tropical can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $4,000 and can go as high as $83,516, while this accessory, on average, fetches $21,241.

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 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    The 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, 2024
    Yes, 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 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.