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Rolex

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.

Average Sold Price
$7,236
Styles
Related Creators
Iconic Designs from Rolex
Explore timeless pieces that have earned their place in history.
Rolex Datejust Watch
Rolex Datejust Watch
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Watch
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Watch
Rolex Submariner Watch
Rolex Submariner Watch
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Watch
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Watch
Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Blue Diamond Dial 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X Diameter 3...
Category

1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Steel Datejust with Custom Blue Dial circa, 1960's Patent Leather Strap
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Datejust / Reference 1601 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43...
Category

1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Submariner Date 16610 40mm Black Stainless Steel Box Service Card
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 16610 Serial: T176*** Year: 1995 Model: Rolex Submariner Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Black Dial: Black Face: Sapphire Crystal Case Size:...
Category

1990s Rolex

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 41mm Mint Green Dial 126334
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
An Oystersteel 41mm Datejust by Rolex. Featuring the mint green dial and a white gold fluted bezel. Presented on a Jubilee bracelet with the Oysterclasp, featuring the 5mm extension ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Ladies Art Deco 14Kt Solid Gold Watch with Diamond Bezel, circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Dress Watch METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt Solid gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter 15mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual...
Category

1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex

Materials

14k Gold

Rolex 9Kt Solid Gold Tonneau Shaped Art deco Watch From 1938 Engraved "A.G.H."
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Tonneau Shaped / Reference 324 METAL / MATERIAL: 9Kt Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1938 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm X Diameter 2...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex

Materials

Gold

Rolex Datejust 16233 36mm Champagne Roman Dial 18K Gold Stainless Box Paper 2004
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 16233 Serial: Y875*** Year: 2004 Model: Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: 18K Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Dial: Champagne Roman Num...
Category

Early 2000s Rolex

Rolex Ladies President 18K Yellow Gold 69178 Watch
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex Ladies President 18K Yellow Gold 69178 Watch - Automatic winding, 29 jewels, Quickset date, sapphire crystal. 18k yellow gold case with fluted bezel (26mm diameter). Champagne ...
Category

20th Century Swiss Rolex

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Creators Similar to Rolex

More Rolex Designs
Rolex Datejust Watch
Rolex Datejust Watch
Average Price
$12,458
Number Available
998
Rolex Datejust Watch
By Rolex
Styles
Modern
Shop All
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Watch
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Watch
Average Price
$9,064
Number Available
158
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Watch
By Rolex
Styles
Modern
Shop All
Rolex Submariner Watch
Rolex Submariner Watch
Average Price
$32,874
Number Available
110
Rolex Submariner Watch
By Rolex
Styles
Modernist
A watch that could survive 100 meters underwater? The concept was unthinkable in 1953, when Rolex introduced what would become the benchmark for a diver’s watch, the Submariner, at the international watch and jewelry fair in Basel, Switzerland. By this point, Rolex was well-versed in durable timepieces; it had released the Oyster, the world’s first waterproof watch, in 1926. The Submariner — full name: Oyster Perpetual Submariner — would go on to become not only a technical feat but also a de...
Shop All
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Watch
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Watch
Average Price
$67,920
Number Available
104
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Watch
By Rolex
Styles
Modern
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Rolex jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Rolex jewelry & watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Rolex jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Rolex diamond jewelry & watches, from our inventory of 1,212, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 5,364 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. Modern and Art Deco are among the most popular styles of Rolex jewelry & watches available on 1stDibs. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider jewelry & watches by Chopard, Roger Dubuis, and Jacob & Co.. Prices for Rolex jewelry & watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $225 and tops out at $637,387, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $9,955.
Questions About Rolex
  • 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 ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
  • 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 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 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 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 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 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 ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Before 1915, the Rolex Watch Co. was called Wilsdorf and Davis. The company shared a name with its founders Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, but they opted to update it after they trademarked the word Rolex in 1908. Find a wide variety of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    No, you can't overwind a Rolex watch. The winding crown only continues to wind the watch until it reaches its limit. At that point, the winding crown disengages and continuing to turn the crown won't keep winding the watch. Shop a wide range of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Most Rolex watches work thanks to a perpetual rotor found inside. Every time you move your wrist, this rotor glides back and forth, creating kinetic energy. That energy moves into the mainspring of the watch to power the timepiece, eliminating the need for winding as long as the watch is being worn. You’ll find a large selection of Rolex on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    No, you don’t have to wind a Rolex watch as long as you are wearing it regularly. Rolex watches feature a Perpetual rotor that collects energy from the wrist’s movement and converts it into power for the watch. Browse a collection of expertly authenticated Rolex watches from top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex watch is powered by a Perpetual rotor that captures the energy of your body’s movement and uses it to keep your watch running. You can also wind up a Rolex if you haven’t been wearing it for a while. Shop the collection of authenticated Rolex timepieces available from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Marconi Rolex was named as such to be synonymous with Marconi radio waves, and was initially meant to be a separate brand from Rolex with a more accessible price point. Find a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches from some of the world’s top reputable sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
    Rolex is so special for a couple of reasons. For one thing, only the finest of materials, such as 904L stainless steel and genuine diamonds, go into the Swiss luxury watchmaker's timepieces. Additionally, skilled artisans meticulously hand-assemble each watch to employ the strictest of quality controls. Many who love Rolex watches appreciate their versatility, as their unique designs work equally well for dressy and casual occasions. Explore a collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Presidential Rolex is a nickname for the Rolex Day-Date watch. When it debuted in 1956, the timepiece stood out as the only one that showed both the date and day of the week on its dial. The watch got its nickname when President Lyndon B. Johnson wore a Day-Date watch made of yellow gold in 1965. You’ll find a large selection of Rolex Day-Date watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    When referring to Rolex watches, the term “chocolate'' is referencing the dial and its brown hue. The watches that feature this rich chocolate dial come with a few different metal options and bands, and they’re all made with the luxe quality people have come to expect from Rolex. Shop iconic vintage and contemporary Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex MilSub, the nickname for the Military Submariner, is a style of Rolex watch designed with deep sea divers in mind. The Rolex MilSub was the first watch to be waterproof up to 100m, with newer models water resistant up to 300m. Shop a range of Rolex watches, including the MilSub, on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex Daytona is a wristwatch designed with race car drivers in mind. Named after the Daytona 500, the watch measures elapsed time and calculates average speed. Find a selection of Rolex Daytona watches and other styles on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex 1680 is a model of watch produced by the Swiss luxury watchmaker Rolex. Its full name is the Rolex Submariner 1680. The company introduced it in 1969 and manufactured it until 1979. Find a collection of Rolex 1680 watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex Masterpiece is a special-edition Rolex Day-Date with a larger face. Due to their exclusive nature, the Rolex Masterpiece is one of the most coveted styles of watches. Find a selection of Rolex Masterpiece watches and other styles on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The rehaut on a Rolex is the metal band that separates the crystal front of the watch from the dial face. It can sometimes be engraved with the serial number or simply with the “Rolex” name. Take a look at a collection of expertly vetted Rolex timepieces from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The second generation of the Rolex Zenith started with a similar style to the original model featuring three subdials and an outer ring contrasted against it. The luxurious Rolex Zenith features sapphire crystals and crown guards for protection against scratches. Shop a collection of authentic Rolex Zenith watches from top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The best Rolex really comes down to a matter of preference. From fit and style to functionality, the best Rolex watch is the one that suits you and your needs perfectly. Shop a range of expertly vetted Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, a Rolex can be traced using its unique serial number that is engraved into the watch. Noting down your watch’s serial number somewhere safe can help to identify it if it’s ever lost. Browse a collection of professionally vetted Rolex timepieces on 1stDibs from top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex GMT is a wristwatch designed with jetsetters in mind. The watch features a bezel that can track both departure and destination times. Unlike standard watches, the Rolex GMT has a fourth hand set to GMT. GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, which is the standard to which all time zones are dictated. Find a selection of Rolex GMT watches and other styles on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Rolex Thunderbird is another name for the Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph watch. It is well known for its rotating bezel. The Swiss watchmaker released the timepiece for the first time in 1953. You'll find a collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
    Rolex is from Switzerland. However, the company's history can be traced to the UK. 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 Montres Rolex S.A. Explore a wide range of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.

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