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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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Creator: Rolex
Style: Art Deco
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 18Kt. Solid Rose Gold with Original Cord Band and Hardware circa 1940's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolexl Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 4554 METAL / MATERIAL: 18kt Rose Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 37mm X Width 17mm ...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Custom Iced Out Emerald Cut Diamonds Rolex Datejust Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Authentic Rolex datejust 41mm Iced out completely with collection quality vs white natural round and emerald cut diamonds 26 carats in collection quality di...
Category

2010s Swiss Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Rolex, White Gold & Diamond Art Deco Wristwatch, Dated 1927
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
A fine and rare Art Deco vintage wristwatch by Rolex made in 1927. This rare shaped ladies diamond Rolex was made in the height of the Art Deco pe...
Category

1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

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

Rolex Steel Oyster Lipton Wristwatch from 1944
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Round / Lipton METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1944 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36mm x Diameter 29mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 17 Jewels / Font DIAL / HANDS: Original Silvered with Arabic Numerals / Original Blued Steel Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Lizard 15mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This standard caliber Rolex...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Art Deco Ladies Diamond Rolex Cocktail Watch in 18ct White Gold
By Rolex
Located in Kenley surrey, GB
An original 1920s fine quality ladies ‘cocktail’ wristwatch by Rolex in 18ct white gold case and the guilloche enamelled face surrounded by diamonds.
Category

1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Rare Original Dial and Riveted Bracelet, circa 1956
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA: 1956 / 1957 DIMENSIONS: Length 41mm X Diameter 34mm MOVEM...
Category

1950s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1500 Automatic Original Champagne Dial Watch
By Rolex
Located in Toronto, CA
Brand : Rolex Model: Oyster Perpetual Date Reference Number : 1500 Features : Screw down Crown - Champagne Dial Country Of Manufacture: Switzerland Movement: Automatic Ca...
Category

1970s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Ladies 18Kt Rose Gold Art Deco Watch with Cord Band from 1940's Hand Made
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 4211 METAL / MATERIAL: 18Kt. Rose Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1946 or 47 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 26 X Width 17 ...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco 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 Oyster Perpetual with Original Oyster Bracelet and Sub Seconds from 1957
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6504 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1957 / 58 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 31mm X D...
Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Rolex Watches

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

Antique Art Deco Rolex 9k Rose Gold Square 15j Mechanical Hand Wound Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Montclair, NJ
Watchmaker: Rolex Movement: Rolex - Mechanical - Hand Wound - 15 Jewels - Swiss Made Gross Weight: 23.3 Grams (Includes Strap) Case Material: Solid 9k Rose Gold Case Width: 25mm (w/o...
Category

1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Rose Gold

Rolex Extremely rare rectangular solid gold watch 1930s
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
Rolex Ref 2356 Circa 1930 Rolex Vintage Rectangular solid gold case with solid wire gold fixed lugs. This attractive watch is manual hand winding. Excellent condition it has been recently serviced-cleaned-restored from top to bottom by competent restorers and watchmakers. Dial is signed Rolex raised gold numbers and blued steel hands. Movement is signed Rolex 15 Rubies...
Category

20th Century European Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

Gold

Rolex Nickel Silver Pocket Watch with Period Vintage Chain Original Dial 1940's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced Pocket Watch METAL / MATERIAL: Nickel Silver CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter 49mm DIAL / HANDS: Or...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Silver

Rolex Silver Tonneau Shape with Rare Original Breguet Engine Turned Dial 1920's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Tonneau / Reference 575 METAL / MATERIAL: Sterling Silver CIRCA / YEAR: 1920's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36 X Width 26mm MOVE...
Category

1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Art Deco Ladies Wristwatch, 18 Karat White Gold and Diamonds
By Rolex
Located in Berlin, DE
Enchanting Rolex Art Deco women's wristwatch - a timeless jewel in white gold and diamonds This Rolex Art Deco women's wristwatch is not only an expression of the finest watchmaking...
Category

Early 20th Century Swiss Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

White Diamond, Diamond, 18k Gold, White 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

Rolex Stainless Steel and Gold Precision With Patinated Original Dial from 1953
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oversized Round / Reference 4517 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel & Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1953 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 42mm Length X ...
Category

1950s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Gold, Stainless Steel

1917 Rolex WW1/Trench Watch, Rare Half Hunter, Stunning Dial
By Rolex
Located in Raleigh, NC
But first, I have a shameless plug! My shop was recently selected to supply vintage American watches for a premier movie starring some major actors and a world famous director. They were looking for authentic watches that would represent the time period from 1915-1926. It is a true story of events that took place during the 1920’s. The movie will be release this month. What an extraordinary timepiece to be shown. I have never seen one as original as this one. All functioning parts work like they should. Look and study what you see in front of you. This is the only one that I have offered. This watch in its 106 year old history has been taken care of, it is evident from the collective condition This brand of watch needs no introduction. The style of watch may not be known too well as well. This is a very rare offering, I don’t use that word lightly (rare) . This watch is specifically called...
Category

1910s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Sterling Silver

Rolex Diamond White Gold 18K Wristwatch 1950S
By Rolex
Located in Geneva, CH
Rolex Diamond round and baguette cut on white gold 18K wristwatch. Circa 1950. Rolex. Numbered. Rolex Precisions. Total gross weight: 22.12 grams. We do not guarantee the function...
Category

1950s European Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Rolex 18kt. Rose Gold Art Deco Ladies Watch with Original Dial and Hardware 1940
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco METAL / MATERIAL: 18kt Rose Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 33mm X Width 16mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Eterna Matic Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial 1940's or 50's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Eterna Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Round METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1940 / 50's DIMENSIONS / SIZE...
Category

1950s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Steel Oyster with Rare Original Dial from 1946
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster / Reference 4365 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1946 DIMENSIONS: Length 39mm X Diameter 34mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 17 Jewels / Caliber. 10 1/2 H DIAL / HANDS: Original Silvered with Gilt Numerals / Leaf Gilt Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 19mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This is a classic and elegant example of what an early Rolex...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Daytona Platinum Diamond Men's Watch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Daytona Platinum Diamond Men's Watch all original Rolex parts except custom Diamond dial and diamonds on case excellent conditio...
Category

2010s Swiss Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Rolex Two Steel and Rose Gold with Original Dial and Ladder Bracelet from 1942
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Bubble Back / Reference 2940 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel and 14k Rose Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1942 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 32mm X Diameter 39mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Perpetual Winding / 17 Jewels / Caliber 630 DIAL / HANDS: Original Dial with Luminous Numerals / Blued Steel Luminous Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Original Ladder or Bamboo Bracelet 17mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This classic Rolex Bubble Back...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Datejust Pink Diamond Roman Watch New
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Datejust 36mm Pink Diamond Roman Watch New New 2021 unworn All Original Rolex parts Factory Diamond Dial Original Box and Papers 4...
Category

2010s European Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

Pink Diamond

Rolex Steel and Gold Art Deco Ladies Watch, circa 1920's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 6311 METAL / MATERIAL: Steel & Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1920's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 33mm X Width 15mm MOVE...
Category

1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Day-Date Royal Arabic Blue Rare! Watch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Day-Date 36mm Royal Arabic Blue Rare! All original Rolex Parts excellent condition original box papers circa: 2003 Rare dial!! shop w...
Category

Early 2000s Art Deco Rolex Watches

Rolex Datejust White Men's Watch, 116200
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Datejust 36mm 116200 circa : 2008 all original Rolex Parts except custom diamond bezel White Roman Dial custom diamond bezel 1.50 carats excellent condition full set bo...
Category

Early 2000s European Art Deco Rolex Watches

Rolex 18K Gold/SS Datejust Olive Green Diamond Watch, 2022
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex 18K Gold/SS Datejust 36mm Olive Green Diamond Watch 2022 New 2022 box papers all original Rolex parts Olive Green Diamond roman dial 5 ye...
Category

2010s European Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Rolex 9Ct. Rose Gold Art Deco Watch from 1915 in the Campaign Style
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Campaign Style / Reference 374 METAL / MATERIAL: 9 CT Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1915 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 29mm X Diameter ...
Category

1910s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Steel and 14Kt. Gold Ladies Art Deco Cord Watch from 1945 / 46
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Two Tone METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel / 14Kt. Yellow Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1945 or 46 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 33mm...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Perpetual Datejust Black and Gold
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Rolex Oyster Datejust SS Automatic 1970s Vintage Black face, gold crown and bezel. Condition Excellent Repaired: Cleaned and serviced, dial restored to exact specification. Replacements made. New aftermarket black leather strap, with Rolex buckle...
Category

1970s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Gold

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 Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Patinated Dial Manual Watch, 1957
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6534 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA: 1957 / 1958 DIMENSIONS: Length 42mm X Diameter 35...
Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Rolex Watches

Rolex Steel Tudor Sky Rocket Geneve with Original Luminous Dial and Hands 1940's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Tudor Watch Co. STYLE / REFERENCE: Sky Rocket METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: Late 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 37mm x...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Stainless Steel "Bubble Back' with Original Dial from 1946 or 47
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Bubble Back / Reference 3372 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1946 / 47 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm X Diameter 32mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Perpetual Winding / 17 Jewels / Caliber "N.A." DIAL / HANDS: Original Silvered with Gold Baton Markers / Dauphine Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 17mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This classic Rolex "Bubble Back" is fitted with the legendary Caliber N.A. Movement, their first Perpetual Winding caliber. The watch is entirely original and has the very desirable Thunderbird Machined Bezel. We have just serviced this rare watch and it comes with our 18 month warranty and our lifetime service commitment. If you are looking for a watch as a gift for someone born in 46 or 47 this might be just the watch for them. It is also supplied with an original "ladder" or "bamboo" bracelet. These bracelets were available as an option for all the Rolex...
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1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Gold Top Tropical Series Steel Back Early Ladies Perpetual from 1947
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Ladies Bubble Back / Tropical Series METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt. Top with Steel Back CIRCA / YEAR: 1947 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 29mm x Diameter 24mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 17 Jewels DIAL / HANDS: Black with Gold Numbers / Gilt Leaf Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 12mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT The legendary house of Rolex produced this classic ladies watch...
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1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

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 Steel and Rose Gold "Bubble Back" with Rare Original Dial from 1942
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Bubble Back / Reference 2940 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel / 14Kt. Solid Pink Gold Bezel ...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Rose Gold Stainless Steel Bubble Back Thunderbird Bezel Watch
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Bubble Back METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel & Solid Rose Gold Thunderbird Bezel DIMENSIONS: Length 40mm X Diameter 32mm CI...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Ladies Yellow Gold Early Perpetual Winding 'Bubble Back' Watch, circa 1949
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: "Bubble Back" / Reference 5002 METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt. Yellow Gold DIMENSIONS: Length 29mm X Diameter 24mm CIRCA: 1949 / 1950 MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Perpetual Winding / 17 Jewels / Caliber P.A. DIAL / HANDS: Black with Applied Baton Markers / Dauphine Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 12mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement. LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This is a very rare example of an early Rolex Ladies Perpetual...
Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco 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

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 Stainless Steel Speedking Original Dial Manual Watch, circa 1952
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: 3/4 Size Precision / Oyster Speedking METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA: 1953 DIMENSIONS: Length 36mm X Diameter 30mm M...
Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Rolex Watches

Rolex 9 Carat Gold Cushion Shaped Watch with Original Breguet Dial from 1922
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Cushion Shape / Fixed Wire Lugs METAL / MATERIAL: 9Ct. English Yellow Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1922 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 31mm x Width 36mm MOVEMENT: Manual Winding / 18 Jewels / High Grade / Ultra Prima with 6 Adjustments DIAL / HANDS: Silvered Breguet Engine Turned with Arabic Numerals / Blued Steel Breguet Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement. LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This classic cushion shaped watch is 100 years old and still looks new. The serial number dates it to about 1922. The case has all the appropriate Hallmarks as well as the correct Rolex stamps...
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1920s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex Steel Early Oyster with Original Super Oyster Crown from 1952-1953
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6084 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1952 / 1953 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm X Diameter 34mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Perpetual Winding / 17 Jewels DIAL / HANDS: Black with Pink Triangle...
Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Steel Early Speedking with Original Dial from 1941 or 1942
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Speedking / Reference 3373 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel DIMENSIONS: Length 36mm X Diameter 30mm CIRCA / YEAR: 1941 / 1942...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Steel Bubble Back with Original Dial and Ladder Bracelet, circa 1942 or 43
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Bubble Back METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel DIMENSIONS: Length 38mm X Diameter 32mm CIRCA: 1942 / 1943 MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Perpetual Winding / 17 Jewels DIAL / HANDS: Original Silvered with Luminous Numerals / Original Blued Steel Luminous Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Rare Original Ladder Bracelet / Full Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement. LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT It is rare to find an original Rolex Bubble Back with an original dial and bracelet. This watch has sharp crisp numbers on the case back and the crown appears to be new and entirely original. The dial has a beautiful rich patina on it. We date it to just the time of WW2 so it may have seen some service but it is difficult to know since the crown suggests it has never been used. If you are a Rolex collector...
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1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Rolex 14Kt Solid Gold Bracelet Watch
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Mid Century Bracelet Watch METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter 15mm MOVEMENT /...
Category

1960s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Rolex Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Vintage Ladies 9k gold Rolex wristwatch, Art Deco
By Rolex
Located in NEWARK, GB
The perfect classic timepiece is what you wil find with this vintage ladies 9ct gold Rolex wristwatch. It features a hexagonal shape case in 9ct gold...
Category

Early 20th Century European Art Deco Rolex Watches

Materials

9k Gold

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 22, 2021
    A 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 ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The easiest way to adjust the time on the Rolex Oyster watch is by turning the crown. Turn it clockwise when you want increased hours or counter-clockwise for lower values, then push in until it clicks into place. On 1stDibs, you'll find a large collection of Rolex watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To adjust a Rolex's time, first unscrew the crown. Slide the crown to the second notch and wait for the second hand to stop moving before setting. The specific method varies from model to model. A user guide accompanies each Rolex watch sold and describes the correct time-setting process for that model in great detail. Find a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Rolex recommends getting service on your watch every 7 to 10 years by an authorized Rolex watchmaker. Many Rolex watches will run far longer if you service them as recommended to prevent problems and help minimize wear. Find authentic vintage and modern timepieces from Rolex on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Ideally, 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 ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Yes, Tudor watches are made by Rolex. In fact, you often see the brand name referred to as "Tudor by Rolex." Hans Wilsdorf introduced the brand in 1946 to sell wristwatches at lower price points than Rolex timepieces. The brand relaunched in 2009 and has grown in popularity since. You’ll find a large selection of both Tudor and Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To wind a Rolex Oyster, 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 selection of well-vetted Rolex Oyster watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A 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, 2022
    Each Rolex model may be slightly different, but most models feature a crown at the side that lets you adjust the time. Gently unscrew the crown by twisting it counter-clockwise. Gently pull it out and let it click through two extended positions until it reaches the third extended position. Twist it clockwise to adjust the time. When finished, press it back in and screw it in, in a clockwise direction to keep the watch waterproof. Browse through a range of authentic Rolex watches from top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, 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 ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Rolex 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, 2022
    Yes, there are companies that allow you to rent Rolex watches. Some companies offer subscription services and allow you to choose to buy the watch at a certain point if desired. Shop a selection of vintage and contemporary Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Almost all Rolex watches say “Swiss-Made” or “Swiss” on the watch face. Sometimes there is also the letter “T” included in this mark. Rolex is a Swiss brand and stands on the proud tradition of excellent Swiss timepiece construction. Shop a collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, a Rolex Air-King watch is waterproof. All Rolex watches are waterproof to depths of at least 330 feet except for Cellini styles, which are waterproof to a depth of at least 164 feet. Shop a wide range of verified authentic Air-King, Cellini and more Rolex styles on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Depending 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex watch’s second hand moves mechanically with precision, appearing to sweep the face smoothly without pause or interruption. It takes a very keen eye to spot the eight, slight tick-tock adjustments it makes each second. Shop a collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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