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.
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
14k Gold, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, Stainless Steel
1950s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Gold, 14k Gold
1990s Rolex Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold
1960s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
White Gold
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Steel
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold
2010s European Art Deco Rolex Jewelry
Titanium
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Silver, Steel, Stainless Steel
1950s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1950s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Modernist Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
1870s Swiss Modern Antique Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Modernist Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Yellow Gold
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary American Modernist Rolex Jewelry
Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel
1990s Rolex Jewelry
2010s European Rolex Jewelry
Diamond, Rose Gold, Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
2010s European Art Deco Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1940s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel, Rose Gold
2010s Rolex Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
1990s Rolex Jewelry
1980s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Yellow Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
1950s Swiss Modernist Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Gold, Steel
Early 2000s Rolex Jewelry
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
Yellow Gold, Gold, 18k Gold
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, White Gold
2010s Rolex Jewelry
Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1950s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Gold, 9k Gold
1990s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
1960s Modern Vintage Rolex Jewelry
14k Gold, White Gold, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Steel, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Yellow Gold
1970s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Rolex Jewelry
1950s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Late 20th Century Swiss Modern Rolex Jewelry
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Jewelry
1960s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Stainless Steel
1970s Vintage Rolex Jewelry
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Rose Gold
1960s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1960s Swiss Vintage Rolex Jewelry
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Gold
2010s Rolex Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Jewelry
Steel
Rolex jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.
Creators Similar to Rolex
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Whether buying a used Rolex is a good idea is totally subjective. When it comes to contemporary luxury wristwatches, Rolex is also often the first brand that springs to mind, and Rolex vintage watches are equally popular among collectors. Buying a new, never-worn watch enables you to build a history with it that isn’t shared by anyone else. Still, the greatest advantage to buying a pre-owned watch is that it opens up a wider range of models to consider, including rare ones that have been discontinued. Shop a diverse assortment of 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.
- What is the most classic Rolex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Opinions may differ as to which Rolex is the most classic. However, there are several Rolex timepieces that collectors generally consider to be iconic. One is the Oyster, which was the world's first waterproof watch when it debuted in 1926. Another is the Submariner, which is defined by its scratch-resistant, ceramic, rotatable bezel, which allows for optimal accuracy even deep underwater and bears a knurled rim for ease of adjustment with diving gloves. Other classic Rolex watches include the Milgauss, the DateJust and the Air King. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Rolex watches.
- Why are vintage Rolexes cheaper?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Vintage Rolex watches are often cheaper because they are pre-owned. As a result, these timepieces may have slight imperfections due to the effects of regular wear. Even if these blemishes aren't very noticeable and don't impact the reliability or performance of the watch, they may reduce its potential value. It's important to note that not all vintage Rolex watches will be less expensive than contemporary models. Rare watches may actually be more costly due to the limited supply available. Explore a large selection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Whether or not it's hard to buy a Rolex watch may change slightly over time. It is generally more difficult to buy Rolex watches from authorized dealers than many other watches due to the high demand compared to the limited supply of new models produced by the Swiss maker. However, pre-owned Rolex watches are often found on trusted online platforms. Explore a selection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021One 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.
- 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 Rolex do Navy Seals wear?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 26, 2024What Rolex Navy Seals wear varies. Modern-day Seals actually don't receive Rolex watches as standard-issue gear and instead are free to wear whatever diver's watches they wish. However, there is a long history of Navy Seals donning Rolex Submariner watches in the field due to their accuracy, durability and high level of water resistance. Find a wide variety of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024The cheapest Rolex watch will vary over time as the luxury watchmaker's offerings change. However, some watches produced by Rolex are thought of as entry-level watches. These include the Oyster Perpetual, the Rolex Milgauss for men and the Lady-Datejust for women. Entry-level Rolex watches usually retail for between $3,000 and $7,000 when purchased from an authorized dealer or potentially for less when bought pre-owned through trusted online platforms. On 1stDibs, explore a collection of Rolex watches.
- 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, 2021The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.