Rolex Jewelry
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.
Early 2000s Swiss Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
Late 20th Century Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century Swiss Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Gold, Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Steel
1990s Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1980s Contemporary Vintage Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
1990s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Early 2000s Rolex Jewelry
1990s Rolex Jewelry
1990s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel
Early 2000s Rolex Jewelry
1980s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Yellow Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
1990s Rolex Jewelry
Yellow Gold, Steel
1990s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Late 20th Century Swiss Modern Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, 18k Gold
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Early 2000s Rolex Jewelry
Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Rolex Jewelry
Diamond, Emerald, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, Stainless Steel
1990s Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
1960s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
20th Century Swiss Rolex Jewelry
1960s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
1950s Central American Vintage Rolex Jewelry
1950s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Gold, 18k Gold
1960s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1990s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
1970s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Early 2000s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Rolex jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.
Creators Similar to Rolex
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024How much you should pay for a Rolex depends on what you're looking for and your budget. For everyday wear, many men prefer Rolex sports watches, such as the Submariner, the Daytona and GMT-Master II. If you're looking for a watch for special occasions and work, you may want to opt for a Rolex dress watch like the Air-King, Date and Oyster Perpetual. Prices for timepieces from all of these lines will vary based on their materials and features. You may wish to compare prices at multiple retailers and trusted online platforms to get the best possible price. Explore a diverse assortment of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024How much a Rolex wristwatch is in the USA varies. Entry-level watches produced by the Swiss luxury maker usually start at around $4,000 to $5,000, with the highest-priced models retailing for $100,000 or more. In some cases, pre-owned Rolex watches, available on trusted online platforms in the USA, sell for less than the average retail price. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Rolex watches.
- 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.
- How much is an authentic Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024How much an authentic Rolex is varies greatly. Prices for entry-level models, such as the DateJust 36mm and the Oyster Perpetual, usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, while some limited edition models may sell for $100,000 or more. Select pre-owned Rolexes may be available on trusted online platforms at reduced prices. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of Rolex watches.
- 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024The true cost of a Rolex will depend on the model, materials, condition, availability and other factors. For new contemporary timepieces, Rolex prices often begin between $5,000 and $10,000, with rare limited edition watches costing $100,000 or more. If you miss out on the model you covet when it’s brand-new, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find it down the line as a pre-owned piece. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of Rolex watches.
- Can I just go buy a Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Whether or not you can just go buy a Rolex will depend largely on the type of watch you wish to purchase. For many Rolex watches, authorized dealers have a limited supply, and there may be waiting lists for these models. However, you can often still find these timepieces on trusted online platforms, such as 1stDibs. Explore a wide variety of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- What is the rarest Rolex ever?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024There is no single rarest Rolex ever produced. Rolex has actually made numerous one-of-a-kind special-order watches, any of which could be considered ultra-rare due to their uniqueness. Some examples include the Bao Dai Daytona made for the King of Vietnam, the so-called Paul Newman Daytona custom designed for actor Paul Newman and various bespoke Pearlmaster watches. Find a large selection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024To tell if a Rolex is real, first look at the serial number. Genuine Rolex watches have their serial and model numbers deeply engraved on the metal between the lugs attaching the band to the body, whereas fakes often just have them etched on with acid. A Rolex has the serial number located on the six o'clock side, which can be used to determine its production date. On the 12 o'clock side is the model number (also called the style or reference number), typically appearing below the text "ORIG ROLEX DESIGN." To view the model and serial numbers, you have to take off the band by using a pushpin or small paper clip to remove the pin that holds it in place. Counterfeiters often don't bother to vary the numbers, instead printing the same digits on each replica. A simple Google search for the serial and model numbers of the watch you're considering should reveal whether it is actually a mass-produced fake. You can also have a knowledgeable appraiser or dealer authenticate your watch for you. Shop a large selection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
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