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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.

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Period: 1930s
Creator: Rolex
Fine & Rare Rolex Royal Art-Deco c1939 S/Steel Manual 15 Jewels 30mm Mens' Watch
By Rolex
Located in MELBOURNE, AU
This fine & rare Art-Deco Rolex Royal S/Steel wristwatch, dating back to circa 1939, featuring: 30mm S/Steel Case, 35mm including the original signed s...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Nickel Prince Drs. Watch 1930s with Silver Dial by Stern Freres
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Prince / Drs. Model METAL / MATERIAL: Nickel Silver CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X Width 25mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 15 Jewels DIAL / HANDS: Two Tone Silver with Arabic Luminous Numbers Dial by Patek Philippe...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Vintage Rolex Royalite Watch 2280 Circa 1939
By Rolex
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
Vintage Rolex Royalite Watch 2280 Circa 1939 Description / Condition: All watches have been professionally scrutinized and serviced prior to being offe...
Category

1930s Swiss Modern Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Ref 2387, 9K Yellow Gold Tonneau with Art Deco Dial, H/M UK 1930
By Rolex
Located in Canterbury, GB
Our wonderful vintage Rolex features a 9k yellow gold stepped tonneau shaped case with manual wind 15 jewel movement. Notably, this example has a very attractive art deco style dial ...
Category

1930s Vintage Rolex Watches

Fine & V Rare Art-Deco Rolex 18K Gold, Diamond, Sapphire Cocktail Ladies' Watch
By Rolex
Located in MELBOURNE, AU
The unusually shaped hinged Case is the pivotal feature of this exquisite & extremely rare Art-Deco ladies Rolex cocktail watch Despite its age,...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold

ROLEX REF. 3361, PRINCE AERODYNAMIC, Art Deco REF. 3361, 18K PINK GOLD
By Rolex
Located in Santa Monica, CA
ROLEX REF. 3361, PRINCE AERODYNAMIC, 18K PINK GOLD A fine, rare and elegant manual-winding, 18K pink gold chronometer wristwatch with pink dial and center seconds Specifications: Mod...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold

1938 lady's Rolex 9K Yellow Gold Mechanical Watch Factory Marked Case & Works
By Rolex
Located in Santa Monica, CA
1938 lady's Rolex 9K Yellow Gold Watch Mechanical Watch Wrist Length 6.25 inch Marking "Rolex" ,"9c" , "110266", "Worlds---" , "Jessica" Cond...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Antique Rolex Oyster Pioneer Watch Face Chronograph Manual Wind
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Introducing a rare and stunning piece of history: an antique Rolex Oyster Pioneer manual winding watch. With its 28mm dial, manual winding movemen...
Category

1930s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex for Tudor Steel Skyline Centrograph with Original Dial 1940's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex for Tudor STYLE / REFERENCE: Skyline / Centrograph METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm X Diameter 29mm MOVE...
Category

1930s Swiss Modernist Vintage Rolex Watches

Vintage Rolex Precision Watch
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
A men's vintage 1938 33mm Rolex Precision in stainless steel. Featuring a silver dial with applied arabic numbers, a small seconds subdial and a steel ...
Category

1930s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex 1930s Ladies Rose Gold and Steel Oyster Case Manual Wind Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1930s Rolex Oyster Wrist Watch, 24 M.M. Rose Gold top with Steel back oyster Case and curved down Lugs. mechanical, manual wind movement, ori...
Category

1930s Swiss Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, Steel

Rolex, Art Deco, Gold Wristwatch 1938
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
An Art Deco vintage wristwatch by Rolex dated 1938. Yellow gold 9ct case marked Rolex and “RWC LTD” for the Rolex Watch Company Ltd and "31 Records...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Gold

Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Dress Watch, 1930's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Dress Style, Reference 3893 MOVEMENT / CALIBER: 17 Jewels, Caliber 360/HW DIAL / HANDS: Restored Dial, Arabic and Batons, Baton Hands DIMENSIONS: Length 37mm X Width 22mm ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 14mm / Medium Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement. LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This rare and unique Rolex...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Rose Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex 9Ct. Prince in Nearly New Condition Silver Enamel Dial from 1935 or 36
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Prince Model METAL / MATERIAL: 9KT Yellow Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1935 / 36 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 40mm X Width 20mm MOVEMENT: ...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Chromium Marconi Hermetic Manual Wind Watch, circa 1930s
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex / Marconi STYLE / REFERENCE: Hermetic METAL / MATERIAL: Chromium CIRCA: 1930's DIMENSIONS: Length 35mm X Diameter 29mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 15 Jewels DIAL / HANDS: Silvered with Arabic Numerals / Blued Steel Breguet Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 16mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement. LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This very unique watch...
Category

1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Vintage 1930's Manual Rolex Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
This is an 18ct yellow Rolex Officially Certified Chronometer from the 1930's. The watch has an 18ct yellow gold square case, a cream dial with gold hour ...
Category

1930s Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Gold, Yellow Gold

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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.

Questions About Rolex Watches
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 29, 2024
    Buying a Rolex may or may not be a good investment. Whether or not this kind of purchase meets the financial goal of a given investor or collector will depend upon a range of factors such as the rarity of the watch, its 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 26, 2024
    To know if a Rolex watch is real, you’ll want to look at several factors. For one, if a Rolex is $50 or less, it’s certainly not genuine. Additionally, if a Rolex watch is real, it will have its serial and model numbers deeply engraved into the metal between the lugs attaching the band to the body (fakes often just have them etched on with acid). Real Rolex movements are self-winding and mechanical, as opposed to quartz or battery-powered. The lettering is also a reliable tell: All lettering on the face of a Rolex watch should have an exquisitely crisp appearance. It should be centered and perfectly aligned without inconsistent spacing, blurs, splotches or misspellings. On 1stDibs, you can find vintage Rolex watches for sale from expertly vetted sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Most Rolex watches use a Perpetual rotor which means that they do not need winding if worn regularly. If you have not worn your watch in some time, you can manually wind it by unscrewing the crown to the winding position and turning it clockwise about 20 times. Make sure to screw the crown back into place after winding to reestablish its waterproof qualities. Shop a collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, you can wear a Rolex every day. This durable and high-quality timepiece is meant to withstand everyday use and wear. Shop a large collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Rolex made the Oysterquartz watch starting in the 1970s. Not many were made, with around an estimated 25,000 models making it to market. Shop a range of expertly vetted Rolex watches from top boutiques worldwide on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Rolex joined the quartz movement popular in the 1960s and 1970s. The first Rolex quartz watch was the Date 5100. The company then released the Oysterquartz Datejust and the Oysterquartz Date-Date models. Very few Date 5100s were released, and the Oysterquartz models were only produced for 25 years. Find a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches, including rare Oysterquartz models, from some of the world’s top reputable boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, all Rolex products have a serial number. You can find it engraved along the side closest to the six o’clock mark. If your Rolex is missing a serial number, it is likely not authentic. On 1stDibs you can shop a wide range of expertly vetted Rolex products from some of the best boutiques around the world.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex watch is powered by a Perpetual rotor that captures the energy of your body’s movement and uses it to keep your watch running. You can also wind up a Rolex if you haven’t been wearing it for a while. Shop the collection of authenticated Rolex timepieces available from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Most Rolex watches work thanks to a perpetual rotor found inside. Every time you move your wrist, this rotor glides back and forth, creating kinetic energy. That energy moves into the mainspring of the watch to power the timepiece, eliminating the need for winding as long as the watch is being worn. You’ll find a large selection of Rolex on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To clean a Rolex watch, wipe it all over periodically with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. For deeper cleaning, you can wash their metal bracelets and cases with warm water and mild dish or hand soap. Use a leather cleaner product to clean leather straps on Rolex watches. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Rolex watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Rolex made its mark on the world in 1910, and in the 100-plus years since, the Bienne, Switzerland-based brand has focused on making some of the highest quality watches in the world, with trademark chronometric precision. Find authentic vintage and new Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How you adjust a Rolex band depends on the style. Submariner and SeaDweller watches feature Glidelock clasps that allow you to adjust the size 2 mm at a time simply by opening the bracelet and sliding it back and forth. Other watches use an Easylink comfort extension link which allows you to adjust the length by 5 mm without any special tools. Check the user manual of your specific watch for more detailed instructions. You’ll find a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Adjust a Rolex by twisting the crown at the side counter-clockwise to unscrew it, then gently pull it out three notches to its third position. Twist it clockwise to set the time. Push the crown in until it clicks to its second position. Turn it clockwise to set the date. Push it all the way back in and screw it in in a clockwise direction to secure it and re-waterproof the watch. Browse a range of Rolex timepieces from top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Insert a Rolex spring bar tool into the lug holes, or alternatively, the gaps for the spring bars at the end of the band. Gently retract the spring bar by pressing it with the tool until the band dislodges. Put the new band onto the spring bar. Line up the spring bar with the lugs and use the tool to navigate it into place until it clicks securely. Browse for authenticated Rolex timepieces and bands on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Designed with world travelers in mind, the Rolex Sky-Dweller can be purchased through Rolex directly as well as through authorized retailers and resellers, including 1stDibs. It’s important to purchase from a vetted seller or vendor to ensure authenticity. While Rolex has at times inspired knockoffs, 1stDibs partners with only top-vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    One 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The way a Rolex bracelet fits is a matter of preference. For a comfortable fit, Rolex recommends leaving the bracelet loose enough to allow for the wrist expansion that comes with warmth but snug enough to avoid sliding. Shop a collection of authentic Rolex pieces on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Presidential Rolex is a nickname for the Rolex Day-Date watch. When it debuted in 1956, the timepiece stood out as the only one that showed both the date and day of the week on its dial. The watch got its nickname when President Lyndon B. Johnson wore a Day-Date watch made of yellow gold in 1965. You’ll find a large selection of Rolex Day-Date watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Paul Newman Rolex is a Rolex Daytona 6239 that was owned by Paul Newman, who wore it many times during his racing career — Newman began racing professionally in 1972 and is said to have worn the watch every day, both on and off the track. The ruggedly handsome star was captured in countless paparazzi and publicity photos seemingly never without the same beloved Daytona. The back was engraved with the phrase, “Drive Carefully Me.” Search a collection of authenticated Rolex watches from top boutiques worldwide on 1stDibs.

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