Rolex Watches
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.
1950s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, Gold
1970s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
1970s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Steel
1990s European Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Yellow Gold
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Gold, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Steel
1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches
Rose Gold, Stainless Steel
20th Century Swiss Rolex Watches
14k Gold, Rose Gold
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Gold, Stainless Steel
1990s European Rolex Watches
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Gold, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Yellow Gold
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Gold, Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Modern Rolex Watches
Rose Gold, Stainless Steel
1990s European Rolex Watches
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
20th Century Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel, Steel
1980s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
Early 2000s Swiss Rolex Watches
Steel, Stainless Steel
20th Century Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold, White Gold
Late 20th Century Rolex Watches
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel
1990s European Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, White Gold
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
1980s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Modernist Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
This timeless Rolex Precision wristwatch is crafted in elegant yellow gold, showcasing an aged silver dial with applied arabic hour markers. The watch is paired with a matching ye...
Mid-20th Century Swiss Rolex Watches
18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Modernist Rolex Watches
Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
1980s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
2010s Rolex Watches
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, Stainless Steel
1980s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
1980s Vintage Rolex Watches
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Gold, Stainless Steel
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches
Stainless Steel
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Rolex Watches
Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
1990s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
1970s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold
2010s Swiss Rolex Watches
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Find Antique and Vintage Watches for Sale on 1stDibs
Records show that, in Europe, by the 16th century, it was high time for portable clock devices. Right now, perhaps you’re shopping for your own. If so, find a vast range of fashionable and functional antique, new and classic vintage watches on 1stDibs.
While wall-mounted time tellers and grandfather clocks were much more convenient than the sundials of ancient history, watches were becoming crucial for an increasingly connected society whose members learned that the latest advancements in technology meant they could carry devices that kept time to within a minute a day. Tragically, the first pocket watches — albeit an improvement on the accessories that preceded them, which dangled from a chain worn around the neck — didn’t help much as far as accuracy or portability. Focused on style over substance, the upper class frequently carried lavish pieces that ran hours behind.
Eventually, watches migrated from owners’ pockets to their wrists. In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.
Indeed, although exceedingly practical, the watches of today are far from bland. Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional watches. You’ll always know what time it is because you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from your new accessory.
Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.
When shopping for a watch, it’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.
Find exactly what you’re looking for in an unparalleled collection of antique, new and vintage watches on 1stDibs — we promise it will be worth your time.
Creators Similar to Rolex
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The Rolex Datejust uses the Caliber 3235 movement developed in-house. It is a chronometer certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute to ensure exceptional accuracy. Browse on 1stDibs for a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches from top boutiques around the world.
- Which Rolex will go up in value?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Many Rolex models may go up in value with time, but the Rolex Submariner is one of the watch models most proven to increase in value. It is highly durable and very popular, making it an iconic Rolex model. Shop on 1stDibs to find a collection of authentically vetted Rolex watches.
- What is a Rolex GMT?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Rolex GMT is a wristwatch designed with jetsetters in mind. The watch features a bezel that can track both departure and destination times. Unlike standard watches, the Rolex GMT has a fourth hand set to GMT. GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, which is the standard to which all time zones are dictated. Find a selection of Rolex GMT watches and other styles on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, a Rolex watch will hold its value and some of them even appreciate over time. This high-end brand has a grand reputation for superior quality, making it one of the more desirable watches available. Shop a collection of properly vetted vintage and contemporary Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, Rolex watches are not battery-powered, except for the rare Rolex Oysterquartz model. This model is no longer in production, but you can still find it in the second-hand market. Shop a collection of Rolex watches, including the rare Oysterquartz, from reputable dealers on 1stDibs.
- Can a Rolex be traced?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, a Rolex can be traced using its unique serial number that is engraved into the watch. Noting down your watch’s serial number somewhere safe can help to identify it if it’s ever lost. Browse a collection of professionally vetted Rolex timepieces on 1stDibs from top sellers.
- Are Rolex spoons worth anything?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Rolex spoons are generally worth only a modest amount. Retailers once gave out these souvenir spoons along with the purchase of Rolex watches. Consult an experienced appraiser for specific information regarding the value of a particular spoon. You'll find a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- Are Rolex watches unisex?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Rolex watches have no specific unisex style, but Rolex does have both women’s and men’s versions. However, some women prefer to purchase the larger men’s watches, and some men opt for the smaller women’s Rolex brands. Shop a variety of luxury men’s and women’s Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 7, 2024Whether or not Rolex watches are a good investment will depend upon a range of factors such as rarity, condition and more. While a study of luxury investments in 2019 found that jewelry was among the worst-performing collectibles (luxury handbags had the highest returns), experts have reported that jewelry’s status as an investment is improving.
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.
The demand for Rolex watches has soared in recent years. This has led to wait lists at authorized Rolex dealers extending as long as several years for new versions of popular models, like the Daytona and the Submariner. While the enthusiasm for Rolex that is shared by celebrities and prominent influencers has kept the brand in the spotlight, its work has long been celebrated all over the world. The main reasons for the brand’s success are its commitment to precision and unflagging pursuit of innovation.
Determining the value of any collectible depends upon a variety of aspects. Because Rolex is so well-known for its innovation and legacy of craftsmanship, this can have a positive effect on the long-term value of its jewelry.
Jewelry industry professionals advise that investment-worthy high-quality vintage jewelry should include its maker’s hallmarks. (Genuine Rolex watches have their serial and model numbers deeply engraved into the metal between the lugs attaching the band to the body — whereas fakes often just have them etched on with acid.)
At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Buyers should keep in mind that the value of any investment is subject to fluctuation, and any investment decisions should be made according to the guidance of a financial advisor.
Find a helpful Rolex buying guide and a collection of vintage Rolex watches today 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 ExpertApril 5, 2022Most Rolex watches do not have quartz movement, instead they use a Perpetual rotor to power the watch. There were a couple of Rolex watch models that used quartz movement, the most popular being the Rolex Oysterquartz. The Oysterquartz is no longer in production, but it can be found in the second-hand market.. Find Rolex watches, including the rare Oysterquartz, on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Rolex watch that is worn daily does not need winding. The Perpetual rotor uses the movement of your body to power the watch and it can hold this power for up to 70 hours. If you take off your watch for an extended period of time, more than the 70 hours, then it will need winding. Manual winding can be done by unscrewing the crown to the winding position and turning it clockwise about 20 times. Remember to screw the crown back tightly to reestablish its waterproof qualities. Shop a collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- Does a Rolex Datejust tick?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, the Rolex Datejust does not tick in the usual sense. This mechanical watch receives eight impulses per second, rather than the single impulse that is familiar from quartz watches. These impulses could be described as a kind of tick, but they create a much smoother gliding movement and do not generate a “ticking” noise. On 1stDibs you can browse a collection of authenticated Rolex watches from top boutiques around the world.
- Does a Rolex tick or glide?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The second hand of a Rolex mechanical watch appears to glide, rather than tick, as it sweeps across the face of the dial. However, it technically is ticking, just at a much higher rate than once per second, as a quartz watch does. It will “tick” eight times per second, giving it that signature sweeping movement as well as producing a much quieter sound. On 1stDibs, find a range of expertly authenticated Rolex timepieces from top sellers.
- 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Rolex Daytonas are crafted from different materials, resulting in different weights for this watch depending on the model. The stainless steel design features a weight of 148 grams, while a white gold design weighs 195 grams and a platinum design weighs 283 grams. Browse an array of authentic Rolex Daytona watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Ideally, to prevent damage to your watch, it’s best to visit a Rolex dealer to have your battery changed. If you need to change it yourself, loosen the screws, and carefully remove the old battery with a set of tweezers, install the new one, and tighten the screws. You'll find authentic vintage Rolex watches from top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Rolex Datejust has 12 links in the standard model. There are also link extension options that allow you to add links for an ideal, personalized fit. Shop a wide range of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022While it has not been officially confirmed, it is estimated that Rolex makes over one million watches per year. Each timepiece is renowned for its exceptional quality. Shop a wide variety of expertly authenticated Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
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