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.
Unworn Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 40 Reference# 126509, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 126509-0003 is a masterpiece born from the spirit of high-performance motor racing, uniting technical excellence with unmistakable luxury. Crafted e...
White Gold
Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Blue Dial circa, 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 Steel Air King With Custom Blue Dial and Diamond Bezel 1970s
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm X Diameter 35m...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Two Tone Rose Gold and Stainless Steel Dress Watch, circa 1930's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Dress Style / Reference 3893 METAL / MATERIAL: Two Tone 14Kt Rose Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 37mm "Lu...
Rose Gold, Stainless Steel
1985 Rolex Day-Date 36 18K YG 18038 Auto Champagne Diamond Dial 36mm
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Kevin O’Leary, Where Are You At? The Reference 18038 is the backbone of the vintage Day-Date world. It comes from a period when these watches were the definitive choice for daily w...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Unworn Rolex Oyster Perpetual 31 Reference# 277200, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 31 Ref. 277200-0006 embodies pure elegance, contemporary style, and the timeless spirit of Rolex engineering. Presented in unworn condition, this refined 3...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Ladies Datejust 2-Tone Diamond Watch 179313 Gold Champagne Mother of Pearl
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex Ladies Datejust 2-Tone Diamond Watch 179313 Gold Champagne Mother of Pearl Dial - Automatic winding, Quickset, 31 jewels, sapphire crystal. Lady Datejust. Stainless steel case ...
Genuine 18k Rolex Watch. 18k WG Ladies 2633 Dainty 1970s Ladies Rolex
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
18k White Gold Rolex Ladies mechanical Movement Wristwatch. Circa 1970 Dainty 16mm Case. Rolex 1400 Movement Ref. 2633. Beautiful Watch. Manual Windup mechanism. Case is 18k 750...
18k Gold, White Gold
Rolex Submariner Hulk Unworn 116610LV
By Rolex
Located in Mayfair, London, London
An unworn Submariner Hulk 116610LV by Rolex, available now at our Showroom in London. Crafted from Oyster steel, this discontinued timepiece features a green dial and a green unidir...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel O.P Date with Rare Vignette Dial
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Date / Reference 1500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1969 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 41mm "Lu...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Vintage 5512 Gilt Underline Dial Pointed Crown Guard Submariner Full Set
By Rolex
Located in Boston, MA
A vintage Rolex Submariner, model 5512, with rare Underline gilt dial and pointed crown guard case. The round case measures 40mm in width, featuring the original black dial with gil...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Rare Day-Date Platinum Diamond Set 18046
By Rolex
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A rare Day-Date in platinum by Rolex with a single-quick movement. Only a few of these were in production before the introduction of the 18346. Featuring a silver dial set with 2 ba...
Diamond, Platinum
Rolex 1966 Air King Men's Watch - Stainless Steel Automatic 1007
By Rolex
Located in Greensboro, NC
Brand: Rolex Model: Air King Model Number: 1007 Specific Year: 1966 Movement: Automatic Warranty: 1 yr Movement Maker: Swiss Dial Color: Rare brown mirror dial Metal Content: Stainl...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Rolex vintage Oysterdate Steel Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1967 Rolex Oyster Date Reference 6694 Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. Stainless Steel 2 Piece Oyster case. Caliber 1225 17 Jewel manual Wind, Nickle Lever movement. Custom Refinished "Cal...
Steel
Rolex Datejust 79173 Champgane Dial 18K YG/SS A7 Serial 1999
By Rolex
Located in SYDNEY, AU
Rolex Datejust 79173 Champgane Dial 18K YG/SS A7 Serial 1999 SKU 1874 Brand Rolex Model Datejust Reference 69173G Year 1999 Dial Champagne Dial Case Steel and 18k Yellow Gold Bracel...
Rolex Datejust 16013 36mm MOP Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel 18K Yellow Gold Steel
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 16013 Serial: 590**** Year: 1979 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: 18K Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Bezel: Custom Diamo...
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Genuine Rolex Watch. Diamond Bezel 1975 Ladies Manual ROLEX 2611 Precision
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stainless Steel Rolex Precision Ladies mechanical Movement Wristwatch. Circa 1975. 1400 Caliber Rolex Movement Ref. 2611. Beautiful Watch. Manual Windup mechanism. Case and Brac...
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Rolex Ladies Oyster Perpetual Date Watch 69240
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rolex Ladies Oyster Perpetual Date Watch 69240 - Automatic winding, 29 jewels, Quickset date, sapphire crystal. Stainless steel case with fluted bezel ( 26 mm). Silver stick . Stainl...
Rolex Datejust 41mm Blue Dial Smooth Bezel Oyster Bracelet Steel Watch 126300
By Rolex
Located in Aventura, FL
This Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 in Oystersteel features a bright blue dial and an Oyster bracelet. The sunray finish creates delicate light reflections on many dials in the Oyster ...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Rolex Precision Vintage Manual wind Steel Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1954 Rolex Reference 6426 Wrist Watch, 34 M.M. Stainless Steel 3 Piece Oyster case, screw down crown, 17 Jewel Mechanical, Manual wind Nickle Lever movement, acrylic crystal, "...
Steel
Unworn Rolex Sky-Dweller 42 Reference# 336934, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934-0002 represents the pinnacle of Rolex innovation — a seamless fusion of luxury, functionality, and engineering brilliance. Crafted from a striking c...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
Vintage Rolex Watch. ROLEX Oyster Royal 2280 SS 30mm 1930s
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Rolex Oyster Royal 2280 Stainless Steel Case. Manual Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1939 Beautiful Watch. Generic Stainless Steel Bracelet (not original Rolex). 30mm round c...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Classic Oysterdate with Original Dial, circa 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 ...
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 76080 24mm Blue Dial Diamond Bezel Steel Box Papers
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 76080 Serial: Y39**** Year: 2002 Model: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Custom Diamond Bezel ...
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1500 35mm Mens Vintage Automatic 1970s RA602
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Classic icon, Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1500 Date automatic, c.1970, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Rolex signed silver dial, applie...
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
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
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
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
NEW Rolex GMT-Master II 40mm Bruce Wayne Oyster Watch 126710GRNR
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Brand new. Comes with the original box and papers.
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 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
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
2005 Rolex Datejust 36 116233 Two-Tone Auto Champagne Dial 36mm
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Modern Evolution Of The Datejust The reference 116233 marks the point where Rolex updated the classic 36mm silhouette with contemporary engineering. While it retains the proport...
18k 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 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
ROLEX Watch. Rolex ref. 4498 Precision 1940s Black Dial Mens Rolex watch.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage Rolex Precision Mens Watch Ultra Slim Body Stainless Steel ref.4498 Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1940s Details Ultra Slim Body Black Dial Beautiful Watch. 35mm roun...
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
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref 6084 Mens 1950s 34mm Automatic Bubble Back RA715B
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Vintage classic, Men's Rolex Oyster Perpetual 6084 bubble back automatic watch, c.1952, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous, unrestore...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 1601 Silver Piepan Dial 18k WG Fluted Bezel 1973
By Rolex
Located in SYDNEY, AU
Rolex Datejust 1601 Silver Piepan Dial 18k WG Fluted Bezel 1973 SKU 1906 Brand Rolex Model Datejust Reference 1601 Year 1973 Dial Silver Piepan Dial Case Steel and 18k White Gold ...
Unworn Rolex Datejust 31 Green Jubilee Reference# 278273, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Datejust 31 Ref. 278273-0032 is a perfect expression of timeless elegance and refined artistry. Crafted in Yellow Rolesor — the signature combination of resilient Oysterste...
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. 279173-0005 embodies timeless sophistication and precision, showcasing the brand’s mastery of luxury watchmaking. Crafted from Yellow Rolesor — a refi...
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Custom Blue Persian Numbers 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 / 70's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X Diame...
Stainless Steel
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...
Unworn Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 40 Reference# 126519ln, Complete set, 2025
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 126519LN-0006 represents the pinnacle of sporty sophistication. Crafted from solid 18 k white gold, the 40 mm Oyster case radiates understated elega...
Gold
Rolex Datejust 116233 Tahitian Diamond Dial Diamond Band 18K Yellow Gold Steel
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 116233 Serial: Z189*** Year: 2006 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel with Custom Diamonds Band: 18K Yellow Gold and Stainless Steel Jubilee B...
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
Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Men's 2-Time Zone Watch 16713
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Men's Rolex GMT-Master II Men's 2-Time Zone Watch 16713 - Automatic winding, 31 jewels, Quickset, sapphire crystal. GMT-Master II. Stainless steel with...
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 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 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
Rolex Air King 14000 Blue Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel Stainless Steel 34mm
By Rolex
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 14000 Serial: U832*** Year: 1997 Model: Rolex Air King Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: Custom Diamond Bezel Dial: Custom Blue Diamond...
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 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 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
$5,592Sale Price|20% Off
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1501 Mens 1960s Automatic All Original RA763
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Timeless classic, Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref.1501 Men's automatic, c.1967, all original, in excellent working condition. Verified authentic by a master watchmaker. Gorgeous Role...
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
Pre-owned Rolex Day-Date 40 Reference# 228239, Complete set, 2023+
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
The Rolex Day-Date 40 Ref. 228239-0007 is an exquisite expression of refinement and horological excellence. Crafted entirely from solid 18ct white gold, this 40mm masterpiece reflect...
Gold
Rolex 14k Solid Rose Gold Pendant Ref 3959 1930s Rare Vintage Luxury RA651
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Rare timeless luxury, 14k solid rose gold Rolex necklace pendant, c.1938, in excellent aesthetic and working condition. Verified authentic by a mas...
Gold, Rose Gold, 14k Gold