Rolex Desk Sets
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.
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Creator: Rolex
Pen Holder Desk by Fontana Arte for Rolex Shop Dealer, 1960s
By Fontana Arte, Rolex
Located in taranto, IT
Extremely rare complete desk pen holder from the 1960s, Fontana Arte production for Rolex, consisting of a thick two-tone glass, amber and Nile Green base, with double internal engraving of the Rolex logo and large central crown
from a closed Rolex dealer shop...
Category
1960s Italian Vintage Rolex Desk Sets
Materials
Glass
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Rolex desk sets for sale on 1stDibs.
Rolex desk sets are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of stone and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Rolex desk sets, although gray editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original desk sets by Rolex were created in the mid-century modern style in europe during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desk sets by Ettore Sottsass, Olivetti, and Fontana Arte. Prices for Rolex desk sets can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,331 and can go as high as $5,006, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $3,168.
Creators Similar to Rolex
Questions About Rolex Desk Sets
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A 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.
- How do I wind a Rolex watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To 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.
- Does Rolex use real diamonds?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Rolex 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, 2021Because 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, 2021A 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, 2021The 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.
- Is Panerai better than Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Depending 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, 2021The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021An 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.
- How to wind a datejust rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To 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, 2021The 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, 2021A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
- What diamonds do Rolex use?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Rolex 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, 2021While 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.
- What was Rolex before?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Before 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.
- What is a vintage Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024A vintage Rolex is a timepiece made by the luxury Swiss watchmaker Rolex that is a certain age. Generally, experts refer to vintage models as those produced between 20 and 99 years ago. Watches made shortly after the company's founding that are at least 100 years old may be categorized as antiques. Shop a large collection of vintage Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- Is Cartier the same as Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024No, Cartier is not the same as Rolex. Louis-François Cartier founded Cartier in Paris in 1847. Some of its most iconic watches include the Tank, the Santos, the Ballon Bleu, the Calibre de Cartier and the Drive de Cartier. Hans Wilsdorf established Rolex in London in 1905. Today, the maker is well-known for its sophisticated watches, including the Submariner, the Daytona, the DateJust, the Oyster Perpetual and the GMT-Master II. Find a selection of Cartier and Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- What was the first Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024The first Rolex watch was the Oyster. With a screw-down crown and case back, both fitted with rubber gaskets, this was the first truly waterproof watch when it debuted in 1926. 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. Explore a diverse assortment of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Opinions may differ as to which model is the most quintessential Rolex. However, one of the most well-known watches produced by the luxury Swiss maker is the Submariner. Rolex introduced what would become the benchmark for a diver’s watch at the international watch and jewelry fair in Basel, Switzerland, in 1953. The Submariner — full name: Oyster Perpetual Submariner — would go on to become not only a technical feat but also a decade-spanning status symbol. Other potential contenders for the title include the Oyster Perpetual, the DateJust, the Air King and the Milgauss. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Rolex watches.
- Does Rolex do financing?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, Rolex does not offer financing. That said, there are many qualified and reputable Rolex retailers who may offer their own financing options. Shop iconic vintage and contemporary Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- Can a Rolex be traced?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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.
- Can you swim with a Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, you can swim wearing most Rolex watches because the Swiss luxury watchmaker's timepieces tend to be waterproof. However, the depth that you can safely dive to while wearing one varies, making it important that you consult the water-resistance information etched onto the back of the case or detailed in the watch's papers before you swim. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Rolex watches.
- How do I open a Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To open a Rolex watch, you must have a die kit. Rolex designs these kits and sells them through authorized brick-and-mortar and online dealers. Place the die in the center of the case back, positioning it inside of the grooves. Then, twist the die clockwise with one hand and hold the watch steady with the other. Continue to twist until you unscrew the back completely. Shop a wide range of Rolex on 1stDibs.
- What year is my Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To determine what year your Rolex watch is, use the serial number. Normally, you will find the number engraved on the bottom half of the back of the case. Depending on the age and model, the serial number ranges from four to eight digits in length. You can contact Rolex to determine the year that corresponds to the serial number or use an online tool. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Rolex watches.
- What is the Rolex Thunderbird?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Rolex 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.
- What does Rolex mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The term “Rolex” refers to a luxury watch produced by the company Rolex. In 1905, Hans Wildorf founded the company in London, UK, but today it operates from headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Shop a large selection of Rolex watches 1stDibs.
- What is a Rolex GMT?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A 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.
- What is a Pepsi Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021A Pepsi Rolex is a watch with a red and blue bezel nicknamed for its resemblance to the logo to one of America's favorite soft drinks. The first version of the Rolex GMT-Master II, or “Pepsi” arrived in 1954. It is a highly coveted mid-level price watch.
- What is a 1675 Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A 1675 Rolex is the name for the second generation of Rolex GMT-Master watches produced by the brand Rolex. The Swiss luxury watchmaker made the model from 1959 to 1980. It featured crown guards and an aluminum insert that made the timepiece more durable than its predecessor. You'll find a wide variety of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- What country is Rolex from?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024Rolex 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.
- Which Rolex has meteorite?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022A number of Rolex watches include meteorite, a piece of debris from a meteoroid, asteroid or comet. The Swiss luxury watchmaker uses the material in the premium models in its Datejust, Pearlmaster and GMT-Master II lines. Shop a variety of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- Is an AP a Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024No, an AP is not a Rolex. The watches come from entirely distinct luxury watchmakers based in Switzerland. Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis founded Rolex in 1905, while Audemars Piguet's history dates back to 1875, when Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet founded the company. Explore a wide range of Audemars Piguet and Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- Why are Rolexes so rare?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Rolexes are so rare largely due to supply and demand. The luxury Swiss watchmaker produces only a limited number of watches annually and may craft 100 or fewer pieces for its rarest references. Due to the popularity of Rolex watches, many people wish to purchase them, so there are often lengthy waiting lists for new models. However, you can still find many pre-owned Rolex watches on trusted online platforms, like 1stDibs. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Rolex watches.
- Why was Rolex invented?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Rolex was invented due to the aspirations of founder Hans Wilsdorf, who sought to offer a line of timepieces that were practical and accessible for everyday men and women. When he and his brother-in-law set up their London enterprise in 1905, they called it Wilsdorf & Davis. 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. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Rolex watches.