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Rolex Unpolished

Rolex 1957 Ref 1500 Yellow Gold Self Winding Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
original Rolex Gold plate buckle. A very nice clean example of the 1950s Date Rolex, unpolished, sharp
Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage Rolex 1655 Explorer Steve McQueen STRAIGHT HAND 1972 UNPOLISHED
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 1655 Serial: 3039*** Year: 1972 Model: Rolex Explorer "Steve McQueen" Straight Hand
Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Bart Simpson 5513 Submariner 40mm Steel Unpolished Circa 1960
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex stainless steel 40mm reference 5513 men's wrist watch. Vintage, circa 1959-1964. Known in the
Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Quartz from 1979 In Unpolished Condition
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Reference 17000 METAL / MATERIAL
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

1984 Vintage Rolex Sea Dweller 16660 Stardust Rare MK3 Dial Stainless Unpolished
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 16660 Serial: 8057*** Year: 1984 Model: Rolex Sea Dweller Case Material: Stainless
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex GMT Master II Pepsi 16710 Red and Blue Steel Box Paper 2004 UNPOLISHED
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 16710 Serial: F101*** Year: 2004 Model: Rolex GMT Master II Case
Category

Early 2000s Wrist Watches

Rolex Datejust 31 Midsize 18K Yellow Gold Watch 278288RBR
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
} Unpolished with Rolex box, card and book. Rolex factory warranty in effect until 10/2/2029..
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Explorer 1 14270 Unpolished S Serial Stainless Automatic Men's Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Explorer 1 14270 Unpolished S Serial Stainless Automatic Men's Watch 36mm
Category

1990s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Rolex Submariner Vintage 5513 Spider Dial 8.9 Mil Unpolished Patina Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Submariner Vintage 5513 Spider Dial 8.9 mil Unpolished Patina Watch 40mm
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Rolex Day-Date President 1802 Unpolished 18k Yellow Gold Silver Dial Men's
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Day-Date President 1802 Unpolished 18k Yellow Gold Silver Dial Men's 36mm
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Silver

Rolex Oysterdate 6494, Certified and Warranty
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Oysterdate Reference #:6494. Rolex Oysterdate Vintage Unpolished 6494 Men Hand Wind Watch
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Rolex Oysterdate 6494, Case, Certified and Warranty
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Oysterdate Reference #:6494. Rolex Oysterdate Vintage Unpolished 6494 Men Hand Wind Watch
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Oysterdate 6494, Silver Dial, Certified and Warranty
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Oysterdate Reference #:6494. Rolex Oysterdate Vintage Unpolished 6494 Men Hand Wind Watch
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Rolex Stainless Steel Red Submariner Wristwatch Ref. 1680
By Rolex
Located in Westlake Village, CA
. Case Stainless steel, unpolished Movement Rolex, self winding caliber 1570 Dial Red Submariner MK
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Datejust Automatic Wristwatch Ref 1600
By Rolex
Located in Westlake Village, CA
steel, with 18k yellow gold flat bezel, unpolished. Movement Automatic, Rolex caliber 1570. Dial
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Stainless Steel, Yellow Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Double Red Sea Dweller Wristwatch Ref 1665
By Rolex
Located in Westlake Village, CA
Stainless steel, unpolished Movement Rolex, self winding caliber 1570 Dial Doeble Red Sea Dweller MK IV
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner 16808 18 Karat Yellow Gold Blue Dial Unpolished
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
*UNPOLISHED* Style Number: 16808 Serial: 8100*** Model: Submariner Case
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Very Rare Unpolished 18-Karat Rolex Submariner All Original from 1969
By Rolex
Located in Munich, DE
to buy a nearly unused icon. The first gold Rolex sport watch. First year of production with a two
Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Collectible Jewelry

Very Rare and Unpolished Limited Rolex Beta21 with Papers and Booklet
Located in Munich, DE
The Rolex ref 5100 beta 21 was introduced at the 1970 Basel Fair and was the biggest hit of the
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern More Clocks

Rolex Precision 34.11
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
1976. As you can see, we have purposely left this Rolex Precision watch unpolished and original which
Category

Vintage 1970s European Wrist Watches

Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Watch 16710
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
. Stainless steel Oyster bracelet. Pre-Owned Unpolished with Rolex box, extra bezel and papers
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Watch 16710
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Watch 16710 - Automatic winding, 31 jewels, Quickset, sapphire crystal
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Ladies Square Rolex ref 9251
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Ladies Square Rolex ref 9251 - Manual winding. Unpolished 18k yellow gold
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex 18k Yellow Gold Cosmograph Daytona Men's Watch 116518
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex 18k Yellow Gold Cosmograph Daytona Men's Watch 116518 - Automatic winding, chronograph, 44
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Men's White Gold Watch MOP Dial 16519
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Men's White Gold Watch MOP Dial 16519 - Automatic winding, chronograph, 44
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Datejust 41 Men's 41mm Stainless Steel 126300 Wimbledon Dial
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Oyster bracelet. Pre-owned Rolex box and card. Unpolished condition
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Watch Ref 1655
By Rolex
Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Unpolished condition Rolex Explorer II, aka "The Steve McQueen", complete with box and papers in
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Submariner 5513 Black Dial Stainless Steel 1988 Unpolished
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 5513 Serial: R929*** Year: 1988 Model: Submariner Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Black Dial: Black Face: Acry...
Category

Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Daytona Cosmograph 116520 White PANNA DIAL Stainless Steel 40mm UNPOLISHED
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 116520 Serial: K600*** Year: 2001 Model: Rolex Daytona Case Material: Stainless
Category

Early 2000s Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Vintage Ref 1024 Gold Shell with Company Logo Dial
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1984 Rolex Reference 1024 Wrist watch, 34 m.m. Gold Shell with Steel back Oyster case
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Rolex Rose Gold Precision Wristwatch circa 1950s
By Rolex
Located in Miami Beach, FL
The is an exquisite example of the Rolex Precision with an unpolished case, the dial is in mint
Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Rolex Submariner Unpolished Kermit Stainless Steel 16610LV Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire
Ref: W6055 Manufacturer: Rolex Model: Submariner Model Ref: 16610LV Age: 1st October 2008 Gender
Category

Early 2000s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner Unpolished 16610 Commodores Cup Race Winner, 1992
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex SUBMARINER UNPOLISHED 16610 COMMODORES CUP RACE WINNER 1992
Category

1990s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Submariner Date Transitional Dial Unpolished Stainless Steel 16800
By Rolex
Located in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire
Ref: W6074 Manufacturer: Rolex Model: Submariner Model Ref: 16800 Age: 18th March 1985 Gender: Mens
Category

Vintage 1980s Swazi Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial 40mm
Category

Vintage 1970s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial 40mm
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial 40mm
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner Vintage 5513 9.7 Million Serial Unpolished 2 Liner Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Submariner Vintage 5513 9.7 Million Serial Unpolished 2 Liner Watch 40mm
Category

Vintage 1980s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Oysterdate Vintage Unpolished 6494 Men Hand Wind Watch Tropical Dial
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Oysterdate Vintage Unpolished 6494 Men Hand Wind Watch Tropical Dial 34mm
Category

Vintage 1940s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Explorer II 16550 Men's Automatic Vintage Unpolished Rail Spider Dial
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Explorer II 16550 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Rail Spider Dial 40mm
Category

Vintage 1980s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Bubble Back 5015 Unpolished Men's Automatic Vintage Watch 14 Karat Gold
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Bubble Back 5015 Unpolished Mens Automatic Vintage Watch 14K Gold 32mm
Category

Vintage 1950s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Day-Date President 1802 Unpolished 18 Karat Yellow Gold Silver Dial Men's
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Day-Date President 1802 Unpolished 18k Yellow Gold Silver Dial Mens 36mm
Category

Vintage 1970s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Yellow Gold Blue Dial Submariner Wristwatch Ref 1680
By Rolex
Located in Westlake Village, CA
taste. Case In 18K yellow gold, unpolished Movement Rolex, self winding caliber 1570 Dial Nipple
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Rolex Yellow Gold Wood Dial OysterQuartz Day-Date Quartz Presidential Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Functions All Factory from Rolex Circa Early 1980's Unpolished Case Bracelet Has Seven Screws
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Serpico Y Laino Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Bubbleback Wristwatch, 1938
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
A scarce and early Rolex SS/14K YG Bubbleback ref # 3132 circa 1938 retailed by Serpico Y Laino
Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Tudor "Monte Carlo" 2 registers manual wind chrono ref#7159/0
By Tudor
Located in West Hollywood, CA
our Rolex trained watchmaker. Left unpolished. Additional scans on request. $10,500
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Tudor SS "Monte Carlo" 2 registers chronograph ref. 7159/0
By Tudor
Located in West Hollywood, CA
) Just serviced by our Rolex trained watchmaker. Left unpolished. Additional scans on request. Stk
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Tudor Stainless Steel Prince Oysterdate Submariner Wristwatch Ref 7021/0
By Tudor
Located in West Hollywood, CA
black date wheel. Unpolished case, Rolex twin lock crown and acrylic crystal. With service papers from
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Extremely Rare Vintage Pink Gold and Steel Combination
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
– Raised pink gold Arabic numbers- Unusual and very attractive Rolex Gold hour hand. Unpolished case is in
Category

Vintage 1940s Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, Steel

Recent Sales

Rolex Submariner 16808 18 Karat Yellow Gold Blue Dial Unpolished
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
*UNPOLISHED* Style Number: 16808 Serial: 8100*** Model: Submariner Case
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Very Rare Unpolished 18-Karat Rolex Submariner All Original from 1969
By Rolex
Located in Munich, DE
to buy a nearly unused icon. The first gold Rolex sport watch. First year of production with a two
Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Collectible Jewelry

Very Rare and Unpolished Limited Rolex Beta21 with Papers and Booklet
Located in Munich, DE
The Rolex ref 5100 beta 21 was introduced at the 1970 Basel Fair and was the biggest hit of the
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern More Clocks

Rolex Precision 34.11
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
1976. As you can see, we have purposely left this Rolex Precision watch unpolished and original which
Category

Vintage 1970s European Wrist Watches

Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Watch 16710
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
. Stainless steel Oyster bracelet. Pre-Owned Unpolished with Rolex box, extra bezel and papers
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Watch 16710
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Watch 16710 - Automatic winding, 31 jewels, Quickset, sapphire crystal
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Ladies Square Rolex ref 9251
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Ladies Square Rolex ref 9251 - Manual winding. Unpolished 18k yellow gold
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex 18k Yellow Gold Cosmograph Daytona Men's Watch 116518
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex 18k Yellow Gold Cosmograph Daytona Men's Watch 116518 - Automatic winding, chronograph, 44
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Men's White Gold Watch MOP Dial 16519
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Men's White Gold Watch MOP Dial 16519 - Automatic winding, chronograph, 44
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Datejust 41 Men's 41mm Stainless Steel 126300 Wimbledon Dial
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Oyster bracelet. Pre-owned Rolex box and card. Unpolished condition
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Orange Hand Explorer II Watch Ref 1655
By Rolex
Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Unpolished condition Rolex Explorer II, aka "The Steve McQueen", complete with box and papers in
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Submariner 5513 Black Dial Stainless Steel 1988 Unpolished
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 5513 Serial: R929*** Year: 1988 Model: Submariner Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Black Dial: Black Face: Acry...
Category

Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Daytona Cosmograph 116520 White PANNA DIAL Stainless Steel 40mm UNPOLISHED
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 116520 Serial: K600*** Year: 2001 Model: Rolex Daytona Case Material: Stainless
Category

Early 2000s Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Vintage Ref 1024 Gold Shell with Company Logo Dial
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1984 Rolex Reference 1024 Wrist watch, 34 m.m. Gold Shell with Steel back Oyster case
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Rolex Rose Gold Precision Wristwatch circa 1950s
By Rolex
Located in Miami Beach, FL
The is an exquisite example of the Rolex Precision with an unpolished case, the dial is in mint
Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Rolex Submariner Unpolished Kermit Stainless Steel 16610LV Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire
Ref: W6055 Manufacturer: Rolex Model: Submariner Model Ref: 16610LV Age: 1st October 2008 Gender
Category

Early 2000s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner Unpolished 16610 Commodores Cup Race Winner, 1992
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex SUBMARINER UNPOLISHED 16610 COMMODORES CUP RACE WINNER 1992
Category

1990s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Submariner Date Transitional Dial Unpolished Stainless Steel 16800
By Rolex
Located in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire
Ref: W6074 Manufacturer: Rolex Model: Submariner Model Ref: 16800 Age: 18th March 1985 Gender: Mens
Category

Vintage 1980s Swazi Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial 40mm
Category

Vintage 1970s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial 40mm
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Submariner 1680 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Watch 4.4 Serial 40mm
Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Explorer II 16550 Men's Automatic Vintage Unpolished Rail Spider Dial
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Explorer II 16550 Men Automatic Vintage Unpolished Rail Spider Dial 40mm
Category

Vintage 1980s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Oysterdate Vintage Unpolished 6494 Men Hand Wind Watch Tropical Dial
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Oysterdate Vintage Unpolished 6494 Men Hand Wind Watch Tropical Dial 34mm
Category

Vintage 1940s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Submariner Vintage 5513 9.7 Million Serial Unpolished 2 Liner Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Submariner Vintage 5513 9.7 Million Serial Unpolished 2 Liner Watch 40mm
Category

Vintage 1980s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Bubble Back 5015 Unpolished Men's Automatic Vintage Watch 14 Karat Gold
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Bubble Back 5015 Unpolished Mens Automatic Vintage Watch 14K Gold 32mm
Category

Vintage 1950s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Day-Date President 1802 Unpolished 18 Karat Yellow Gold Silver Dial Men's
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Rolex Day-Date President 1802 Unpolished 18k Yellow Gold Silver Dial Mens 36mm
Category

Vintage 1970s Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Yellow Gold Blue Dial Submariner Wristwatch Ref 1680
By Rolex
Located in Westlake Village, CA
taste. Case In 18K yellow gold, unpolished Movement Rolex, self winding caliber 1570 Dial Nipple
Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Rolex Yellow Gold Wood Dial OysterQuartz Day-Date Quartz Presidential Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Functions All Factory from Rolex Circa Early 1980's Unpolished Case Bracelet Has Seven Screws
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Serpico Y Laino Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Bubbleback Wristwatch, 1938
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
A scarce and early Rolex SS/14K YG Bubbleback ref # 3132 circa 1938 retailed by Serpico Y Laino
Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

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Rolex Unpolished For Sale on 1stDibs

On 1stDibs, you can find the most appropriate rolex unpolished for your needs in our varied inventory. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using gold, stainless steel and steel. Our collection of these items for sale includes 18 vintage editions and 9 modern creations to choose from as well. You’re likely to find the perfect rolex unpolished among the distinctive items we have available, which includes versions made as long ago as the 20th Century as well as those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Finding an appealing rolex unpolished — no matter the origin — is easy, but Rolex and Tudor each produced a popular version that is worth a look. A rolex unpolished can be a stylish choice for most occasions, but diamond rings, from our inventory of 1, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look, day or night. Today, if you’re looking for a square cut version of this piece and are unable to find the perfect match, our selection also includes alternatives. Most of our rolex unpolished for sale are for men, but there are 13 pieces available to browse for women.

How Much is a Rolex Unpolished?

Prices for a rolex unpolished can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $3,295 and can go as high as $498,000, while this accessory, on average, fetches $10,675.

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 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 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
    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 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 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 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 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
    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
    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 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.