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Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Original Beautifully Patina Dial 1959
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Original Beautifully Patina Dial 1959

Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Original Beautifully Patina Dial 1959

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Factory House STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Genuine Rolex 6494 Watch. Mens ROLEX OysterDate Precision. 1950s
Genuine Rolex 6494 Watch. Mens ROLEX OysterDate Precision. 1950s

Genuine Rolex 6494 Watch. Mens ROLEX OysterDate Precision. 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Port Charlotte, FL

Stainless Steel Rolex Oysterdate 6494 Manual Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1954 Beautiful

Category

Vintage 1950s Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Ref 6426 Classic 1950s Steel Manual wind Wrist Watch
Rolex Ref 6426 Classic 1950s Steel Manual wind Wrist Watch

Rolex Ref 6426 Classic 1950s Steel Manual wind Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1959 Rolex Reference 6426 Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. Stainless Steel 3 Piece Oyster Case, 17 Jewel

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Pocket Watch 9165. Antique Rolex Precision 9165 Circa 1952
Rolex Pocket Watch 9165. Antique Rolex Precision 9165 Circa 1952

Rolex Pocket Watch 9165. Antique Rolex Precision 9165 Circa 1952

By Rolex

Located in Port Charlotte, FL

Vintage Rolex Pocket Watch. Precision Ref: 9165 Circa 1952 Please refer to pictures to see the

Category

Vintage 1950s Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Precision Vintage Steel California Dial Wrist Watch
Rolex Precision Vintage Steel California Dial Wrist Watch

Rolex Precision Vintage Steel California Dial Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1953 Rolex Precision Reference 6426 Wrist Watch, 35 M.M. Stainless Steel 3 piece Oyster Case

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Precision Vintage Manual wind Steel Wrist Watch
Rolex Precision Vintage Manual wind Steel Wrist Watch

Rolex Precision Vintage Manual wind Steel Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1954 Rolex Reference 6426 Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. Stainless Steel 3 Piece Oyster case, screw

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Oyster Precision 6423 Arrowhead Dagger Dial Watch
Rolex Oyster Precision 6423 Arrowhead Dagger Dial Watch

Rolex Oyster Precision 6423 Arrowhead Dagger Dial Watch

By Rolex

Located in Toronto, CA

Brand : Rolex Model: Oysterdate Precision Reference number: 6423 Country Of Manufacture

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold "Orchid" Ladies Watch circa 1958
Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold "Orchid" Ladies Watch circa 1958

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold "Orchid" Ladies Watch circa 1958

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Orchid / Reference 8901 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Ladies Vintage Wrist Watch 14K Yellow Gold Bracelet-1950s
Rolex Ladies Vintage Wrist Watch 14K Yellow Gold Bracelet-1950s

Rolex Ladies Vintage Wrist Watch 14K Yellow Gold Bracelet-1950s

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Elegant vintage 1950s Rolex ladies wristwatch crafted in solid 14K yellow gold, featuring a refined

Category

Vintage 1950s Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Rolex Speckled Gold Dial 33MM 18K Gold Precision Leather Watch
Rolex Speckled Gold Dial 33MM 18K Gold Precision Leather Watch

Rolex Speckled Gold Dial 33MM 18K Gold Precision Leather Watch

By Rolex

Located in Miami, FL

An extremely unique Rolex speckled gold and black dial 33mm Precision model watch in 18k gold

Category

Vintage 1950s Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Oyster Royal Precision Model 6426 34mm Watch Circa 1950s
Rolex Oyster Royal Precision Model 6426 34mm Watch Circa 1950s

Rolex Oyster Royal Precision Model 6426 34mm Watch Circa 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Providence, RI

, embodying mid-century minimalism. Powered by a manual wind Rolex movement, the watch showcases the brand’s

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Wrist Watches

Rolex 14Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch circa 1953
Rolex 14Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch circa 1953

Rolex 14Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch circa 1953

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 9168 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Dial Ladies Watch Ref. 6623
Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Dial Ladies Watch Ref. 6623

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Dial Ladies Watch Ref. 6623

By Rolex

Located in Miami, FL

Women's Rolex 6623 Oyster Perpetual vintage ladies wrist watch in stainless steel. Featuring a

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Vintage Steel Date Model 1501 Black Dial Wrist Watch
Rolex Vintage Steel Date Model 1501 Black Dial Wrist Watch

Rolex Vintage Steel Date Model 1501 Black Dial Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1957 Rolex Reference 1501 Date Model Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. 3 Piece Stainless Steel case with

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

1950's Rolex Ladies Vintage Cocktail Watch - 18K White Gold & Diamonds
1950's Rolex Ladies Vintage Cocktail Watch - 18K White Gold & Diamonds

1950's Rolex Ladies Vintage Cocktail Watch - 18K White Gold & Diamonds

By Rolex

Located in Suwanee, GA

watch retailer and jeweler. As Hess and Dowling state in their authoritative work on Rolex, watches like

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold

Rolex 1957 Ref 1500 Yellow Gold Self Winding Wrist Watch
Rolex 1957 Ref 1500 Yellow Gold Self Winding Wrist Watch

Rolex 1957 Ref 1500 Yellow Gold Self Winding Wrist Watch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1957 Rolex "Date" model reference 1500 Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. 14k Yellow Gold 3 Piece Oyster

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex 14Kt Solid Yellow Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch circa 1954
Rolex 14Kt Solid Yellow Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch circa 1954

Rolex 14Kt Solid Yellow Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch circa 1954

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 965 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Rolex Explorer Date 5701
Rolex Explorer Date 5701

Rolex Explorer Date 5701

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A vintage stainless steel and yellow gold Rolex Explorer Date ref. 5701 automatic movement

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Pre Daytona Oyster Chronograph 6234 Watch 36mm Manual Wind
Vintage Rolex Pre Daytona Oyster Chronograph 6234 Watch 36mm Manual Wind

Vintage Rolex Pre Daytona Oyster Chronograph 6234 Watch 36mm Manual Wind

By Rolex

Located in Miami, FL

, Rolex literature/pamphlet papers, and a certificate of appraisal. The watch face is the original Pre

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Ladies Dress Watch circa 1950 with Original Dial
Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Ladies Dress Watch circa 1950 with Original Dial

Rolex 18Kt Solid Gold Ladies Dress Watch circa 1950 with Original Dial

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Dress Watch METAL / MATERIAL: 18Kt Solid

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex 14Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Tank Style Watch circa 1950's
Rolex 14Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Tank Style Watch circa 1950's

Rolex 14Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Tank Style Watch circa 1950's

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 4391 Ladies Watch

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Rolex Submariner Small Crown Gilt Black Dial 6205 Steel Automatic Watch 1954
Rolex Submariner Small Crown Gilt Black Dial 6205 Steel Automatic Watch 1954

Rolex Submariner Small Crown Gilt Black Dial 6205 Steel Automatic Watch 1954

By Rolex

Located in Central & Western District, HK

Brand: Vintage Rolex Model: 6205 Year: 1954 Serial number: 21xxx Reference: OT1504 Model 6204 as

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

14k Yellow Gold Rolex Circa 1955 Precision Watch Hand Wound Cal. 1210 Movement
14k Yellow Gold Rolex Circa 1955 Precision Watch Hand Wound Cal. 1210 Movement

14k Yellow Gold Rolex Circa 1955 Precision Watch Hand Wound Cal. 1210 Movement

By Rolex

Located in Providence, RI

craftsmanship. The original Rolex crown remains intact, adding authenticity to the piece. The watch is paired

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex 38mm Yellow Gold Triple Date Calendar Moon Phase 8171 Auto. Watch, 1950
Rolex 38mm Yellow Gold Triple Date Calendar Moon Phase 8171 Auto. Watch, 1950

Rolex 38mm Yellow Gold Triple Date Calendar Moon Phase 8171 Auto. Watch, 1950

By Rolex

Located in Central & Western District, HK

Brand: Vintage Rolex Model: 8171 Year: 1950 Serial number: 71xxxx Reference: OT1852 The Rolex

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Rare Vintage Semi Bubble Back Oyster Perpetual Coin Edge Bezel Watch
Rolex Rare Vintage Semi Bubble Back Oyster Perpetual Coin Edge Bezel Watch

Rolex Rare Vintage Semi Bubble Back Oyster Perpetual Coin Edge Bezel Watch

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A Rare 18k Yellow Gold Semi Bubble Back Oyster Perpetual Vintage Men's Wristwatch, silver dial with applied hour markers, a fixed 18k yellow gold coin edge bezel, a very rare origina...

Category

Vintage 1950s Unknown Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Oyster 6244 c1952
Rolex Oyster 6244 c1952

Rolex Oyster 6244 c1952

By Rolex

Located in London, GB

Rolex Oyster 6244 Circa 1952 Manual Wind Ivory Honeycomb Dial Vintage Collectors Piece A rare

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Explorer Precision Vintage Steel 6352
Rolex Explorer Precision Vintage Steel 6352

Rolex Explorer Precision Vintage Steel 6352

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A vintage 36mm stainless steel Explorer Precision by Rolex. Features a black dial with applied hour

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Rare Vintage Precision Yellow Gold 36mm 8896
Rolex Rare Vintage Precision Yellow Gold 36mm 8896

Rolex Rare Vintage Precision Yellow Gold 36mm 8896

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

movement and a brown generic leather strap equipped with a gold plated Rolex pin buckle. The watch comes

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Diamond White Gold 18K Wristwatch 1950S
Rolex Diamond White Gold 18K Wristwatch 1950S

Rolex Diamond White Gold 18K Wristwatch 1950S

By Rolex

Located in Geneva, CH

. Rolex Precisions. Total gross weight: 22.12 grams. We do not guarantee the functioning of this watch.

Category

Vintage 1950s European Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Rolex Oyster Precision Veriflat Vintage Champagne Dial 6512
Rolex Oyster Precision Veriflat Vintage Champagne Dial 6512

Rolex Oyster Precision Veriflat Vintage Champagne Dial 6512

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

An 18k yellow gold Rolex Oyster Veriflat Precision vintage gentleman’s wristwatch, reference 6512

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Rare Oyster Shock Resisting 50m Dial 6484
Rolex Rare Oyster Shock Resisting 50m Dial 6484

Rolex Rare Oyster Shock Resisting 50m Dial 6484

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A rare vintage stainless steel Rolex Oyster Shock Resisting Ref 6484 manual wind movement

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Rare Vintage Oyster Shock Resisting 50 Metres Dial 6484
Rolex Rare Vintage Oyster Shock Resisting 50 Metres Dial 6484

Rolex Rare Vintage Oyster Shock Resisting 50 Metres Dial 6484

By Rolex

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A rare vintage stainless steel Rolex Oyster Shock Resisting Ref 6484 manual wind movement

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Wristwatch from 1952
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Wristwatch from 1952

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Wristwatch from 1952

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6106 MOVEMENT

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Post-War Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6084 Stainless Steel Wristwatch c. 1950s
Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6084 Stainless Steel Wristwatch c. 1950s

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6084 Stainless Steel Wristwatch c. 1950s

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

watch before shipping it to the buyer. About Rolex Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual with Original Patinated Dial from 1951
Rolex Oyster Perpetual with Original Patinated Dial from 1951

Rolex Oyster Perpetual with Original Patinated Dial from 1951

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6285 METAL

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Rolex Steel Oyster Perpetual with Restored and Patinated Dial 1953
Rolex Steel Oyster Perpetual with Restored and Patinated Dial 1953

Rolex Steel Oyster Perpetual with Restored and Patinated Dial 1953

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6085 METAL

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6634 34mm Gold Capped Mens 1950s Automatic RA673
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6634 34mm Gold Capped Mens 1950s Automatic RA673

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6634 34mm Gold Capped Mens 1950s Automatic RA673

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Luxurious classic, Rolex's "Golden Egg" Ref 6634 Oyster Perpetual gold-capped automatic, c.1959, in

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold Plate, Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch Ref 6605
Rolex Stainless Steel Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch Ref 6605

Rolex Stainless Steel Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch Ref 6605

By Rolex

Located in Stamford, CT

Watches. We are not affiliated with Rolex Watch Company Ltd., Rolex Watch USA Inc. or any of its

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Stainless Steel, Yellow Gold, Gold, Steel

Rolex Oyster Precision Ref 6098 Mens 1950s 36mm Automatic Bubble Back RA712
Rolex Oyster Precision Ref 6098 Mens 1950s 36mm Automatic Bubble Back RA712

Rolex Oyster Precision Ref 6098 Mens 1950s 36mm Automatic Bubble Back RA712

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Iconic classic, Men's Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6098 Precision big bubble back automatic watch, c.1953

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref 6605 Datejust Mens 1950s 36mm Vintage Automatic RA764
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref 6605 Datejust Mens 1950s 36mm Vintage Automatic RA764

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref 6605 Datejust Mens 1950s 36mm Vintage Automatic RA764

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

automatic, c.1959, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rolex

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Precision Ref 6022 Mens 1950s Hand Wind Vintage Classic RA676B
Rolex Oyster Precision Ref 6022 Mens 1950s Hand Wind Vintage Classic RA676B

Rolex Oyster Precision Ref 6022 Mens 1950s Hand Wind Vintage Classic RA676B

By Rolex

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Vintage classic, Men's Rolex ref.6022 Oyster Precision hand-wind dress watch, c.1952, in excellent

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 1950s "UFO Flying Saucer" Ref 9083 Steel Mechanical Wristwatch
Rolex 1950s "UFO Flying Saucer" Ref 9083 Steel Mechanical Wristwatch

Rolex 1950s "UFO Flying Saucer" Ref 9083 Steel Mechanical Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1950s Rolex "UFO Flying Saucer" Wrist Watch, Reference 9083 31 M.M. 2 piece Stainless Steel

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual with Rare Engine Turned Bezel 1957
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual with Rare Engine Turned Bezel 1957

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual with Rare Engine Turned Bezel 1957

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6565 METAL

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

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Rolex Watches 1959 For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the rolex watches 1959 you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Each design created in this style — which was crafted with great care and often made from gold, stainless steel and 18k gold — can elevate any look. Our collection of these items for sale includes 1525 vintage editions and 4 modern creations to choose from as well. You’re likely to find the perfect rolex watches 1959 among the distinctive items we have available, which includes versions made as long ago as the 18th Century as well as those produced as recently as the 21st Century. As it relates to this specific piece, our collection includes designs that are universally popular, but 6 carat and 6.5 carat carat weights, specifically, are sought with frequency. While most can agree that any rolex watches 1959 from our collection can easily elevate most outfits, but the choice of a diamond version from the 24 available is guaranteed to add a special touch to your ensemble. A round cut version of this piece has appeal, but there are also baguette cut and french cut versions for sale. Most of our rolex watches 1959 for sale are for men, but there are 452 pieces available to browse for women.

How Much is a Rolex Watches 1959?

The price for a rolex watches 1959 starts at $236 and tops out at $480,000 with these watches, on average, selling for $5,173.

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.