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.
$7,112Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex 16013 Datejust 36mm 18k SS Mens Diamond MOP Dial Automatic 1980s RA552B
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A dazzling iconic classic, Men's 18k gold and stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual 16013 Datejust diamond set mother of pearl dial automatic, c.1986, in excellent working condition...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
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...
Stainless Steel
$7,120Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Oyster 16013 Datejust 36mm 18k SS Mens Diamond Set Automatic 1980s RA548
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Timeless icon, Men's 18k gold and stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual 16013 Datejust automatic, c.1986, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
$6,320Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Oyster Datejust Ref 16013 Mens 36mm 18k SS 1970s Automatic Swiss RA558B
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Timeless icon, Men's 18k gold and stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Ref.16013 automatic, c.1979, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmak...
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
Vintage Rolex DateJust Model 69178 18 Karat Yellow Gold Rare Chevrolet Dial Box
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Rolex Model 69178 DateJust 18k Yellow Gold, 26mm Rare Chevrolet Dial made for Jubilee Anniversary, Automatic Movement, Made in Switzerland with Original Box and Booklet c.198...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rolex Milgauss 40mm Black Dial Green Crystal Stainless Steel Mens Watch 116400GV
By Rolex
Located in Aventura, FL
Rolex Milgauss Green Crystal 116400GV has Silver-tone stainless steel case with a silver-tone stainless steel Rolex oyster bracelet. Fixed domed silver-tone stainless steel bezel. Bl...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 36 Slate Jubilee Reference# 126231, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126231-0023 embodies timeless sophistication, exceptional craftsmanship, and modern luxury. Crafted from Everose Rolesor — Rolex’s signature combination of...
Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Slate Jubile Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0006 is a masterful combination of refined design, precision engineering, and timeless luxury. Crafted from White Rolesor — the perfect harmony of d...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279171, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279171-0007 beautifully combines timeless luxury with contemporary sophistication. Crafted from Everose Rolesor — Rolex’s signature fusion of durable ...
Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 31 Champagne Jubilee Reference# 278273, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 31 Ref. 278273-0026 exemplifies timeless elegance and technical excellence, blending enduring craftsmanship with refined sophistication. Created in Yellow Rolesor ...
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279173, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279173-0007 is a timeless celebration of elegance, precision, and luxury. Crafted from Yellow Rolesor — a harmonious combination of robust Oystersteel...
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Sky-Dweller 42 Reference# 336934, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934-0008, introduced in 2023, is a remarkable fusion of technical innovation and elegant design. Crafted in White Rolesor — Rolex’s blend of durable Oys...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Blue Jubilee Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0016 captures the essence of timeless elegance and cutting-edge performance. Crafted from Rolex’s signature White Rolesor — a seamless fusion of rob...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Lady-Datejust Diamond Champagne Dial 26mm 69173
By Rolex
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A timeless 26mm steel and gold Lady-Datejust wristwatch, by Rolex. Featuring a champagne dial with diamond hour markers, a date aperture and the iconic fluted bezel, in yellow gold. ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Green Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0027 represents the pinnacle of elegance, precision, and modern versatility. Expertly crafted from White Rolesor — Rolex’s distinctive combination o...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Black Jubilee Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0018 is a masterpiece of timeless design and technical precision, embodying the essence of Rolex elegance and performance. Crafted from White Roleso...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Blue Jubilee Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0002 is a striking example of Rolex’s timeless design and masterful engineering. Crafted from White Rolesor — the elegant combination of durable Oys...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Ref. 126000-0006 embodies the essence of timeless design, refined simplicity, and cutting-edge performance. Crafted entirely from Rolex’s signature Oyst...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Black Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0011 stands as a perfect expression of prestige, innovation, and refined craftsmanship. Fashioned from Rolex’s exclusive White Rolesor — the harmoni...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 16014 Silver Diamond Dial Bezel Stainless Steel Jubilee Band
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 16014 Serial: 5881*** Year: 1979 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Custom Diamond Bezel Dia...
Rolex Chameleon Precision 8789 Pyramid Hobnail 18k Yellow Gold 1970s
By Rolex
Located in SYDNEY, AU
Rolex Chameleon Precision 8789 Pyramid Hobnail 18k Yellow Gold 1970s SKU: 1776 A masterclass in vintage elegance, the Rolex Chameleon Precision Ref. 8789 from the 1970s showcases t...
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Custom Made Pumpkin Orange Dial circa
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 1002 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 60's / 70's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 40mm X Diamete...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Factory Original Champagne Dial circa, 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 41mm "Lug Tip to ...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Day-Date 36 18K Yellow Gold Green Hombre Diamond Dial Watch 128238
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned in excellent condition. Box and papers. Brand: Rolex Model: Day-Date 36 Model Number: 128238 Department: Unisex Adult Style: Luxury Country/Region of Manufacture: Switzer...
Yellow Gold
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual with Custom Red Dial circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 1002 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960-70's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm "Lu...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual with Custom Red Dial circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 1002 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm "Lug T...
Stainless Steel
$32,600Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Submariner Date Violet/Tropical Dial Service Papers
By Rolex
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
BRAND: Rolex MODEL: Submariner Date REFRENCE: 16618 SIZE: 40mm CASE: 18k Yellow Gold DIAL: Blue BEZEL: Blue BAND: Oyster 18k Yellow Gold MOVEMENT: Automatic Highly desirable violet/...
Yellow Gold, Gold, 18k Gold
Rolex Day-Date President 40 18K Yellow Gold Green Lacquer Dial Men Watch 228238
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Unworn. Comes with Box and papers. 🕰️ Product Overview Brand: Rolex Model: Day-Date 40 Model Number: 228238 Type: Wristwatch Style: Luxury Department: Men Country/Region of Manufa...
Yellow Gold
$19,840Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Ref 5030 Datejust 18k Gold Mens 1940s 36mm Rare Vintage Automatic RA700B
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Rare historical piece, 1Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust ref 5030 "Ovettone" 18k solid god Big Bubble automatic, c.1940s, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a maste...
Gold, 18k Gold
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279174, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279174-0003 embodies the essence of timeless femininity, luxury, and refined precision. This unworn classic timepiece showcases Rolex’s unmatched craf...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 31 Silver Jubilee Reference# 278274, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 31 Ref. 278274-0030 is a masterful expression of timeless elegance and modern precision, crafted for those who appreciate enduring sophistication. This unworn time...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279174, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279174-0021 is a masterpiece of refined luxury, timeless elegance, and precise craftsmanship. This unworn timepiece beautifully captures Rolex’s legac...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 31 Silver Jubilee Reference# 278274, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 31 Ref. 278274-0012 is an unworn masterpiece that perfectly balances timeless elegance and modern precision. Crafted from White Rolesor, an exclusive blend of Oyst...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Green Jubilee Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126300-0020 is an unworn modern classic that embodies the perfect blend of luxury, precision, and timeless sophistication. Crafted entirely from Oysterstee...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Ref. 126000-0008 is a striking blend of timeless design and modern flair, embodying the essence of Rolex craftsmanship. Unworn and meticulously crafted ...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 36 White Jubilee Reference# 126234, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126234-0025 is an unworn classic that captures the essence of enduring elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Crafted from White Rolesor, an exclusive com...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279173, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279173-0013 is a timeless expression of elegance, precision, and refinement. Crafted from Yellow Rolesor — Rolex’s signature blend of robust Oysterste...
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Ladies President Date Just Turntable Dial Diamond Dial Gold Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in Stamford, CT
Lady's Rolex President Date Just turntable wristwatch model 179138. Factory Turntable dial with a diamond bezel in 18k yellow gold. 6.5 inches. The band oyster band has no visible stretch or wear. Circa 2001. Rolex box included. No papers. Length: 33mm Width: 26mm Band width at case: 13mm Case thickness: 11.80mm Band: 18k yellow gold ladies president...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Ref. 126000-0011 is a captivating expression of refined simplicity and enduring craftsmanship, representing the very essence of Rolex’s timeless design ...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279174, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279174-0015 is a refined embodiment of timeless luxury, precision, and feminine elegance. Crafted from Oystersteel and 18k white gold, this 28mm unwor...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust Midsize 68240 31mm White Roman Dial Stainless Steel
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 68240 Serial: U921*** Year: 1997 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Stainless Steel Dia...
Stainless Steel
$10,000Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Submariner Date 16610
By Rolex
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
BRAND: Rolex MODEL: Submariner Date REFERENCE: 16610 SIZE: 40mm CASE: Stainless Steel DIAL: Black BEZEL: Black BAND: Oyster Stainless Steel MOVEMENT: Automatic WRIST SIZE: 8.25 Good...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Explorer II Reference# 226570, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 226570-0002 is the ultimate expression of adventure, precision, and endurance. Designed for those who push beyond boundaries, this unworn 42mm timepiece is...
Stainless Steel
$10,700Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Submariner (No Date) Certified 14060M
By Rolex
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
BRAND: Rolex MODEL: Submariner No Date REFRENCE: 14060M SIZE: 40mm CASE: Stainless Steel DIAL: Black BEZEL: Black BAND: Oyster Steel WRIST SIZE: 8 MOVEMENT: Automatic Has been re-po...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Black Jubilee Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126300-0012 exemplifies timeless sophistication, precision, and versatility. Unworn and masterfully crafted from Rolex’s signature Oystersteel, this timepi...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279383rbr, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Ref. 279383RBR-0021 is the embodiment of timeless sophistication, blending luxurious materials with masterful craftsmanship. Fashioned from Yellow Rolesor ...
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
$9,700Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Submariner (No Date) 14060
By Rolex
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
BRAND: Rolex MODEL: Submariner REFERENCE: 14060 SIZE: 40mm CASE: Stainless Steel DIAL: Black BEZEL: Black BAND: Oystersteel MOVEMENT: Automatic Very Good condition No box or papers ...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 Reference# 279174, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Lady-Datejust 28, reference 279174-0001, is a timeless symbol of elegance, precision, and refinement. Crafted from a harmonious blend of Oystersteel and 18k white gold, thi...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Slate Oyster Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41, reference 126300-0013, embodies the perfect balance between timeless design, advanced engineering, and everyday practicality. Crafted in robust Oystersteel, th...
Stainless Steel
Genuine Rolex Watch. Ladies Rolex 2653 Vintage Genuine Manual Windup Watch.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stainless Steel Rolex Precision Ladies mechanical Movement Wristwatch. Circa 1973. 1400 Caliber Rolex Movement Ref. 2653. Beautiful Watch. Manual Windup mechanism. Case is Stain...
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 31 Reference# 277200, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Unworn and timelessly stylish, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 31, reference 277200-0007, is a classic timepiece that embodies Rolex’s enduring legacy of precision and elegance. Its 31mm ...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Blue Jubilee Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41, reference 126300-0018, stands as a modern symbol of timeless sophistication and precision engineering. Crafted entirely from Oystersteel, this 41mm timepiece r...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Silver Oyster Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Unworn and refined, the Rolex Datejust 41, ref. 126300-0003, stands as a modern icon in Rolex’s legendary Datejust collection, seamlessly blending sophistication, practicality, and t...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Unworn and striking, this Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36, ref. 126000-0001, exemplifies Rolex’s harmonious blend of timeless elegance and precision engineering. The 36 mm Oystersteel case is equipped with a smooth domed bezel and sapphire crystal, offering a refined yet robust profile. The dial features a silver sunray finish, crafted with expert brushing to radiate light across delicate grooves. At the core lies Rolex’s in-house Calibre 3230, a perpetual, self-winding mechanical movement endowed with modern innovations like the Chronergy escapement, blue Parachrom hairspring, and Paraflex shock absorbers. It delivers approximately 70 hours of power reserve and is certified under Rolex’s Superlative...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Platinum DateJust Presidential 15 Carat Diamond 26mm Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Vintage 1988 Rolex Datejust Presidential in platinum featuring 15 carats of natural diamonds. Pave diamond dial and pink ruby hour markers. Emerald...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Reference# 126000, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Unworn and impeccably designed, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36, ref. 126000-0003, is a timeless expression of Rolex’s philosophy of elegance, durability, and precision. Featuring a 36...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Grey Oyster Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41, reference 126300-0007, is a masterful balance of elegance, precision, and modern design. Crafted from robust Oystersteel, the 41mm case embodies Rolex’s dedica...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 White Oyster Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Unworn and exceptionally refined, the Rolex Datejust 41, reference 126300-0005, exemplifies timeless Rolex craftsmanship and modern design. Featuring a 41 mm polished Oystersteel cas...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Cellini 18K Gold 4129 Manual Champagne 25mm Dial Leather Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Vintage 1995 Rolex Cellini manual-wind in 18K yellow gold featuring a 25mm round case with champagne sunburst dial and applied baton hour markers. Complete with black crocodile-embos...
18k Gold
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34 Reference# 124200, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Unworn and precise, this Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34, ref. 126660-0002, embodies the essence of Rolex design—timeless, elegant, and engineered for everyday versatility. Crafted in robust Oystersteel, the 34 mm case is paired with a smooth domed bezel and a striking pink dial, offering a refined yet contemporary aesthetic. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and screw-down Twinlock crown ensure durability, while water resistance is guaranteed to 100 m / 330 ft, making this timepiece as practical as it is stylish. At its core, the watch is powered by Rolex’s advanced Calibre 2232, a self-winding movement featuring a Syloxi silicon hairspring with patented geometry and Paraflex shock absorbers. Certified to Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer...
Stainless Steel