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.
Rolex Day-Date 36 18038; 18 Karat
By Rolex
Located in Berlin, DE
Immerse yourself in the world of timeless elegance with this exquisite Rolex Day-Date 36 – a masterpiece of Swiss watchmaking from 1984–1985, renowned for both its luxurious presence...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Rolex Lady Datejust 26mm 18K White Gold Steel Silver Stick Dial Watch 69174
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned in good condition. The watch is fully serviced and tested for water resistance, movement calibration, and time accuracy. No original box and papers. Comes with chronostore ...
Steel
Rolex President Day-Date 18238 36mm 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Dial Watch
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The epitome of prestige and timeless elegance, the Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18238 is a true icon in the world of luxury timepieces. Crafted entirely from solid 18K yellow gold, this 36mm ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Rolex Watch. ROLEX Oyster Royal 3121 SS and 9k Bezel. 29mm
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Rolex Oyster Royal 3121 9k Yellow Gold Bezel and Stainless Steel Case. Manual Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1943 Beautiful Watch. New Genuine Leather band. 29mm round case ...
9k Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Gold 34mm Bark Finish Watch in 18K Yellow Gold
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
ROLEX 1950'S VINTAGE GOLD WATCH *Good condition with Rolex box, no papers. -Brand: Rolex -Reference: 1503 -Year: 1954 -Wrist Size: 7" -Material: 18...
18k Gold, Gold
Rolex Submariner 16613 REHAUT Two-Tone 18K Steel Date 40mm BLUE NO-HOLES Watch
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The Rolex Submariner 16613 REHAUT Two-Tone 18K Steel Date 40mm Blue No-Holes Watch is a striking blend of sport and luxury, designed for those who appreciate both performance and ele...
Steel
Rolex Steel Oyster Perpetual Date With Custom Mother of Pearl Dial and Bezel
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Date / Reference 1500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel with Custom Diamond Bezel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENS...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air King with Custom Green Roman Dial And Diamond Bezel ca 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500-1002 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39m X Diameter...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 36mm Jubilee Stainless Steel Silver Dial Men Watch 16234
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned good condition. Clean dial. No original box and papers. Comes with a chronostore box. * Free Shipping within the USA * Two-year warranty coverage * 14-day return policy wi...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Rolex GMT-Master II 116713 Black Ceramic Two-Tone 18K Yellow Gold Stainless 40mm
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116713 Black Ceramic Two-Tone is a remarkable timepiece that seamlessly blends luxury, precision, and durability. Featuring a striking 40mm case, this watch c...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Day-Date II President Platinum Ice Blue Concentric 41mm Watch B/P V 218206
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Commanding and elegant, the Rolex Day-Date II Ref. 218206 represents the pinnacle of sophistication and craftsmanship. Expertly crafted in solid 950 platinum, this 41mm timepiece is ...
Platinum
Unworn Rolex Datejust 28 White Reference# 279384rbr, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 28 279384RBR-0011 is the epitome of refined luxury in a petite and elegant form. Crafted in a harmonious blend of Oystersteel and 18k white gold, this exquisite ti...
Gold
Rolex Ladies President 179138 White Diamond Dial Bezel 18K Yellow Gold Box Paper
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 179138 Serial: K556*** Year: 2005 Model: Rolex Ladies Datejust President Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold Band: 18K Yellow Gold Bezel: Original...
Unworn Rolex Submariner Date Starbucks Reference# 126610lv, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV-0002 – “Starbucks” Green Bezel Icon in 41mm Oystersteel The Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV-0002, affectionately dubbed the “Starbucks,” delivers a bol...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Air-King with Custom Blue Dial and Diamond Bezel circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel & Diamond & Sapphire Bezel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Oyster Datejust Automatic 18k Gold Black Dial Ladies Wrist Watch 6917
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The Rolex Oyster Datejust Automatic 18k Gold Black Dial Ladies Wrist Watch 6917 is a luxurious timepiece designed for women. This Swiss-made watch features a round black dial with go...
18k Gold
Rolex Sky-Dweller Rose Gold Rhodium Grey Index 42mm Dial 326935 Box & Papers
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Bold, innovative, and unmistakably luxurious, the Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 326935 is the ultimate travel companion for the modern jet-setter. Crafted from Rolex’s proprietary 18K Evero...
Rose Gold, Rhodium
$11,920Sale Price|20% Off
Mens Rolex Oyster Datejust 1601 14k Gold Automatic Diamond Bezel 1960s RA412
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A stunning classic, Men's solid 14k gold Rolex 1601 Oyster Perpetual Datejust automatic with diamond dial and bezel, c.1968, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rolex signed black dial, gilt minute and hour hands, sweeping central second hand, date display at the 3 position, luxurious aftermarket diamond set hour markers, hands and dial in excellent, vintage condition, very minor show of age if any. Acrylic crystal. Stunning diamond set in 14k solid gold bezel, 14k solid gold case measures 36mm wide, in excellent condition. 26-jeweled Rolex cal.1570 COSC automatic movement, cleaned and serviced, in excellent running condition. Fitted on new, aftermarket leather strap and buckle. A timeless classic, Men's 14k solid gold Rolex Datejust...
14k Gold
Rolex DateJust 68278 Diamond Champagne Dial Ladies Watch
By Rolex
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 68278 Ladies Watch. 31mm 18k yellow gold case with 18K yellow gold fluted bezel. Champagne dial with gold hands and original factory diamond set hour ...
18k Gold
Rolex DateJust President Diamond & Sapphire Encrusted Watch With Box
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Vintage Rolex 1364 DateJust President Diamond & Sapphire Encrusted Watch With Original Rolex Box. Not Waterproof. Completely set with aftermarket white diamonds and blue sapphire hou...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage ROLEX Watch. 9k YG Rolex 4533 Square Tank Manual Wristwatch.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage Rolex Square Mens Watch 9k Yellow Gold Ref 4533 Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1940s Beautiful Watch. New Genuine Leather band. 27mm square case
9k Gold
Rolex Datejust 36mm Two-Tone MOP Pink Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel Watch 16013
By Rolex
Located in Aventura, FL
A timeless classic with elevated brilliance, this Rolex Datejust 16013 from 1989 blends iconic Swiss craftsmanship with refined luxury detailing. Featuring a stainless steel and 18k ...
Diamond
Rolex Steel Air King with a Custom Diamond Dial, Early 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 3...
Rolex Steel Oyster Perpetual Date with Rare Black Dial and Engine Turned Bezel
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Date / Reference 1501 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1979 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X D...
Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Sky-Dweller 42 Reference# 336935, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935 is a striking expression of advanced engineering and timeless luxury, crafted for the modern traveler who demands both sophistication and performanc...
Gold
Vintage Platinum Rolex President Day Date 1804 Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel 1964
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 1804 Serial: 1062*** Year: 1964 Model: Rolex President Day Date Case Material: Platinum Band: Black Leather Band (Steel Buckle) Bezel: Custom Platinum Diamond Bezel ...
Platinum
Unworn Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Reference# 126655, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Yacht-Master 126655-0002 – Everose Gold Elegance with Sport Performance The Rolex Yacht-Master 126655-0002 is a masterclass in blending high luxury with technical performance....
Rose Gold
Rolex Datejust All Diamond Two Tone Men's Watch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Two tone 18k gold and stainless steel men's Datejust Rolex watch. Featuring after marker full diamond dial, bezel and bracelet. Applied gold Roman markers, date window at 3 o'clock. ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Reference# 126622, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Yacht-Master 126622-0001 – Rolesium Elegance with Rhodium Sunray Dial The Rolex Yacht-Master 126622-0001 offers a distinctive blend of luxury and performance, crafted in Roles...
Platinum, Stainless Steel
Rolex Cellini 18K Gold 37mm 6623 On Leather Watch Box and Papers
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Vintage Rolex Cellini 37mm in 18k gold case and ostrich leather strap. 1990 year with the original Cellini anniversary box and papers. Details: Brand: Rolex Model: Cellini 18K Gold...
18k Gold
Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Pink Dial 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X Diameter 3...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 36 18k Yellow Gold Steel Black Index Dial Automatic Watch 116233
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned in excellent condition. The watch is fully serviced and tested for water resistance, movement calibration, and time accuracy. General Information Brand: Rolex Model: Date...
Steel
18 Kt Collectors Rolex President Wood Dial, Ref 18038 from 1978
By Rolex
Located in Antwerp, BE
18 Kt Collectors Rolex President Wood Dial, Ref 18038 Gender: Mens Brand: Rolex Type: Wristwatches Reference: 18038 Country/Region of Manufacture: Switzerland Style: Luxury Casual M...
18k Gold
Rolex Day-Date President 18K Everose Gold Black Dial Mens Watch 118235
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned. Good condition. The watch comes with a box but no paper. The watch is fully serviced and tested for water resistance, movement calibration, and time accuracy. General In...
Rose Gold
Rolex Two Tone Steel and Gold Datejust "Thunderbird" from 1964 all Original
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust "Thunderbird" / Reference 1675 METAL / MATERIAL: Two Tone Stainless Steel and 14Kt. Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1964 DIMENSIO...
Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 26mm 18K Gold Steel Custom Dial Blue Ladies Watch 69173
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned. Good condition. Custom diamond dial and bezel General Information: Brand: Rolex Model: Rolex Datejust Model Number: 69173 Type: Wristwatch Department: Women Style: Casual...
Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 36 Champagne Jubilee Reference# 126233, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Datejust 126233-0015 – Classic Champagne Dial, Two-Tone Sophistication, Modern Precision A quintessential expression of Rolex refinement, the Datejust 126233-0015 seamlessly b...
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex GMT-Master II Black Red COKE Bezel Stainless Steel Black 40mm 16710 Watch
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A true classic from the golden era of Rolex sport models, this 2000 Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16710 features the iconic black and red “Coke” bezel, making it a standout piece for coll...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Blue Oyster Reference# 126334, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126334-0001 is a masterful blend of timeless design and modern innovation, making it a standout in the world of luxury timepieces. Crafted from Rolex's pro...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Lady Datejust President 18K Yellow Gold White Dial Ladies Watch 6927
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned. The watch was produced in 1982. The original box and papers are not included. Comes with a chronostore box. * Free Shipping within the USA * Two-year warranty coverage * ...
Yellow Gold
Rolex Datejust 16233 Jubilee Dial 18K Yellow Gold Stainless Steel
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 16233 Serial: L961*** Year: 1989 Model: Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: 18K Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Dial: Champagne J...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1002 34mm Mens 14k SS Automatic 1960s All Original RA570
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Timeless luxury classic, Men's Rolex Ref.1002 Oyster perpetual automatic 14k solid gold bezel, c.1966, all original, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master wa...
Stainless Steel, 14k Gold
Rolex Submariner Date Stainless Steel Black Ceramic 40mm 116610 LN Watch
By Rolex
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The Rolex Submariner Date 116610LN is a modern icon in the world of luxury dive watches, combining rugged functionality with timeless style. Crafted from 904L Oystersteel, this 40mm ...
Steel, 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 16013 Datejust 36mm 18k SS Mens Diamond MOP Dial Automatic 1980s RA552
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Dazzling 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. Verifie...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Breitling A32390 Avenger II GMT Blue Dial Stainless Steel Box Paper
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: A32390 Year: 2017 Model: Avenger II GMT Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Stainless Steel Dial: Blue Face: Sapphire Crystal Ca...
Unworn Rolex Datejust 41 Blue Jubilee Reference# 126300, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126300-0002 is a distinguished timepiece that seamlessly blends classic design with modern innovation. Introduced in 2017, this model features a 41mm Oyste...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust Steel Midsize 178384 31mm Mother Of Pearl Diamond Dial And Bezel
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 178384 Serial: SU685*** Year: 2010 - Now Model: Datejust 31 Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Factory Diamond Bezel Dial: Factory Mothe...
Rolex Date 15200 Black Dial Diamond Bezel Stainless Steel
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 15200 Serial: A184*** Year: 1999 Model: Rolex Date Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Custom Diamond Bezel Dial: Black Face: Sapphire Crystal C...
Diamond, Stainless Steel
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
Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Yellow 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 43mm X Diameter 3...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Submariner 5513 No Date Watch & Box
By Rolex
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 5513 Men's Watch. This timepiece features a 40mm stainless steel case and a bi-directional rotating stainless steel bezel with a black aluminum...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Two Tone Zephyr with Original Bracelet from 1968
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Zephyr / Reference 1038 / 1008 METAL / MATERIAL: Two Tone 14Kt. & Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1968 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: ...
Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Yacht-Master 226659 Black Dial 18K White Gold Watch Box Papers
By Rolex
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Yacht-Master 226659 Men's Watch. This watch features a 42mm case made of 18K white gold and a bidirectional bezel with an 18K white gold design and a blac...
18k Gold
Rolex Daytona 16518 18K Yellow Gold White Dial Mens Watch
By Rolex
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
Rolex Daytona 16518 Men's Watch. This watch features a 40mm case made of 18K yellow gold, paired with an 18K yellow gold bezel. The white dial is equipped with luminous gold hands an...
18k Gold
Rolex 69258 Ladies President Diamond Dial Bezel 18K Yellow Gold Box Paper
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 69258 Serial: E530*** Year: 1990 Model: Ladies President Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold Band: 18K Yellow Gold Bezel: Original Diamond Bezel Dial: Original...
Rolex Ladies Datejust Steel & Gold Watch 69173
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex Ladies Datejust Steel & Gold Watch 69173 - Automatic winding, 29 jewels, Quickset date, sapphire crystal. Datejust. Stainless steel case with jubilee bezel (26mm). White di...
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust with Custom Sage Green Dial 1960s
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Reference 1601 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel with White Gold Bezel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Leng...
Rolex 114200 34mm Black Roman Dial Diamond Bezel Stainless Steel
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 114200 Serial: 695Q4*** Year: 2009 - 2014 Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Custom Diamond Bezel Dial: Custom Black Dial with Diamo...
Rolex Stainless Steel Air King with Custom Orange Dial circa, circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500/1002 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm X Diamete...
Stainless Steel