Until 2004, since then there is only the “Rolex … There are a number of great reputable websites to buy used and vintage Rolexes, but the three most popular and great places to start are Chrono24 (Worldwide), Bobs Watches (Huntington Beach), HQMilton (San Francisco), and Paul Duggan (Boston). With a little patience, the Rolex Explorer 214270 is the least expensive way to get one of the most respected Rolex watches – at a price of $6550 USD. The best Rolex serial number resources I found mostly aligned with the serial number distributions shown in the chart below (aggregated from many sources). There are essentially three primary Rolex watch case colors: By far the most popular Rolex color and since the mid-1980’s Rolex have been using their own 904L grade of stainless steel – which is more durable, resistant to scratches, and is much shinier than other stainless steel. This makes the watch both more affordable and a perfect “first” Rolex. Let’s take a look at four candidates. This will be a forever debate amongst watch collectors. It may not be the most famous line in the collection, but it is definitely more interesting, to an extent, as this was a risky release for Rolex – which usually does not overhaul classic references and experiment with their aesthetics. Shipping and … It is a common custom in Japan for people to celebrate big occasions like graduation, marriage, or birth with the gift of a watch. The Sea Dweller case is also quite a bit thicker than the Submariner and this makes it a bit heavier as well, but by most accounts, the Sea Dweller looks very similar to a Submariner. The Rolex Explorer 214270 is the only remaining Rolex Explorer in the catalogue. Hi, Loved reading your article about Rolex watches, actually i have an ancestral gift from my parents, it’s a Rolex oyster prepatual datejust in pink gold and a matching dial,its approximately about a late 1963 model, half of the jubilee bracelet has fallen apart, cannot buy one, Rolex watches shops, suggest me to get … Yet the Cellini line … Discover Rolex replacement parts and accessories on Chrono24. Rolex offers a wide assortment of Classic and Professional watch models to suit any wrist. Like many of the popular Rolex models that Day Date is also waterproof up to 165 feet so you don’t have to worry about wearing it everyday. For plenty of folks, the search for a wristwatch isn’t about alternative functionality — … This can’t be said for most watch brands. The Rolex Explorer is both simple and understated, but it possesses all of the quality elements that make a Rolex. It is to help you remember how you felt upon receiving it – I bet very few people forget when they got their first Rolex. It is a watch that provides a subtle statement – a signal to other collectors and enthusiasts that you are one of them. Your email address will not be published. The Rolex President is both classic and the quintessential gold Rolex. All catalogues for Rolex … The Rolex Yachtmaster debuted in 1992, but the name actually made its first appearance in the mid 1960’s on a few Rolexes (only 2 are known to exist today!). Just start digging and you will find a watch you love. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual models have historically provided the best entry into the Rolex brand. Many first time Rolex buyers are torn between the Rolex Submariner and the Rolex GMT. Founded in 1908 by Hans Wilsdorf at the age of 24, Rolex over the past 100 years is a brand that has transcended boundaries and written its own rules. However, even “like new” models are only offered at an approximately 3-5% discount than buying the watch directly from Rolex. While not necessarily readily available, they are not impossible to get as it does not carry the same level of demand as its GMT, Submariner, and Daytona peers. I spent recently spent a day wearing the Deep Sea and it was too heavy for a daily wearer. This is a Hard … This means they have their own gold refinery and can manufacture alloys that can’t be copied by anyone else. These models upon release have already developed a high demand, but there is strength in the number of configurations. The Rolex Explorer, at 36 m is both smaller and a lot less popular than the Submariner, GMT, and Sea-Dweller models. A Rolex is a watch of unmatched quality and I hope that this Rolex buying guide helps you discover the watch perfect watch for you. Interest in Rolexes (based on Google searches) has grown steadily over the past 5 years and show no hint of slowing down. Despite a recent decline in new luxury watch sales, the vintage market is booming and brands like Rolex are crushing it. How to Get The Best Deal on a Rolex. If you have a question as to which model you need, please contact us to make sure … Many other brands are jumping on the bandwagon. I told myself I would buy a Rolex when I became a partner and I knew it was likely going to happen in the next 6 months. Your email address will not be published. The design of the Rolex GMT Master is very similar to the Rolex Submariner with a few noticeable differences, the main one being a 24 hour bezel. While there is no tried and true rule, most but not all gold Rolexes made after the year 2000 are made of solid gold. Rolex watches were originally developed as  “tool” watches for divers, pilots, yachters, scientists, and then became a fashion and status symbol starting in the 1970s. Since the company is privately held and its factory an almost impenetrable fortress, not a lot is actually known about the day to day operations of the company. This was truly the bridge between the old and new style Submariners. This is truly a personal decision and some people just like buying and knowing that the Rolex they bought was new and no one else has worn it. our content elsewhere. My first Rolex had to be a Submariner. Explore the Rolex collection of prestigious, high-precision timepieces. These can be found started at $14,000 – which is a deal compared to the new $25,000+ price threshold. I don’t … Ironically, sister brand Tudor will always present a better bargain to the consumer – as that was the entire idea behind the brand’s inception. And are they actually available? You can not only see this extreme attention to detail in the construction of a Rolex, but you can also feel it. This is far from the starting price of $10,000 for a used Rolex President, $15,000 for a used Gold Rolex Submariner, or $25,000 for a Rolex Yachtmaster. Rolex GMT Ref. Here is a great post comparing and old and new “Pepsi” GMT on Hodinkee. 116610LN (current): The newer Rolexes have much wider lugs than the vintage models and feel exceptional to wear. 16750 (1981-1988, Stainless Steel): If you couldn’t tell I am a big fan of 1980s Rolex because I think they are under-appreciated and a good value. So, the burning question: are there any bargains left in the Rolex catalogue? This fully automatic watch (no batteries – it runs off of your wrist movement) is the workhorse of all Rolex models and it’s insanely comfortable – it literally becomes a part of you. The world of vintage Rolexes is truly infinite and there is nothing quite like the uniqueness of a vintage Rolex. The YM was in fact designated and designed to be a Submariner (WatchFinder) but deviated too much that Rolex revived the YM name. This is a complicated and personal question. Like the Rolex Submariner the GMT Master is also waterproof but to a shallower depth – although for the everyday wearer it is just as durable as the Submariner. If you want to search for your serial number there are some good tools available – but the accuracy varies. So many miniature pieces all working together to tell time using just the energy of your natural movement. No date window, or iconic cyclops magnifier, to disrupt the clean look or add to the price tag. It is very rare for Rolex to make a special model for a person, so the James Cameron Deep Sea is worth a look and will likely become very collectible in the future. Graph showing the amount of “Rolex” google searches over time. New Rolexes can only be purchased at an authorized Rolex dealer  – you cannot buy a new Rolex at any reseller or third party store (so naturally be cautious if someone is offering you one). The Sea Dweller is also a classic Rolex model and is for the person who prefers a heavier more substantial watch than the Submariner. It is the quintessential Rolex – a true classic. The vintage models are particularly beautiful and worthy of a look. When sharing our images I worked super hard for over 5 years to become a named partner at my firm so I wanted to mark the occasion by buying a Rolex that I could wear everyday to remember the achievement. It many respects it’s the perfect watch. Check out this insane video of a Rolex Submariner being taken apart to see what’s inside. The Rolex Day Date is classic Rolex and its relatively easy to find one with a custom colored dial that you like, whereas the President is flashier and screams 1980’s excess – but that can be cool too depending on your style and the vibe you are looking for. 16800 (1977-1987, Stainless Steel): Known as a “transitional” Rolex, the 16800 was developed during the period when Rolex were moving away from matte dials and hand painted markers and moving towards white gold surround hour markers and glossy dials. Rolex dominates auction catalogues, while holding and appreciating in value for the lucky owners, and is only readily available for most on the grey market – with commensurate premiums and markups attached. 16808 (1981-1990, 18kt Gold): If you are looking for a solid gold Rolex there are non that are a better value than the 16808, which look both vintage and modern with both black and blue dial versions available. Even if you are going to buy a vintage Submariner I recommend that you test wear the new model. In terms of size, functionality and price. Before even selecting the model of Rolex you want, or deciding if you want to buy one new or vintage – I think it is important to first decide the color of the watch that you want – since this will really inform your choices moving forward. This is a quality Rolex model with exceptional vintage models that are both affordable and unique. Set up alerts on Chrono24 and ebay. It is both heavy enough to feel, but light enough to make it feel like you aren’t wearing a watch. This makes them ideal to wear in both business and personal settings. Paying a premium at a non-official Rolex watch seller is thus the way to go if you want one immediately. There really is no comparison – when you hold an authentic Rolex in your hand you can truly feel something special. At the end of the day, Rolex is arguably the most recognised watch brand around the world – a universal symbol of prosperity and success. If you want to get one from Rolex direct or a dealer, you’ll have to put yourself on a waiting list. Discover the innovative features and iconic aesthetics of the 2020 Rolex watches. Oystersteel and White Gold models carry a huge precious bezel premium. It was renamed the Rolex Explorer due to the fact that it was popular with mountain climbers since it could withstand the rigors of high altitude and extreme weather. While seemingly a smart casual and formal watch, the Oyster Perpetual is still a 100m water resistant watch that can take the same beating as some of its more professional siblings. This Rolex Buying Guide includes what I learned while spending a year searching for my first Rolex watch. If you want to join the Rolex club, and wear a less ubiquitous reference that will set you apart from the rest, then the Air-King ref. The Rolex Submariner is my everyday wearer and could be yours too – I don’t even take it off to wash the dishes and didn’t hesitate when jumping into the ocean last month in Mexico. Rolex Case 1000 thru 1815; Rolex Case 5500 thru 5701; Rolex Case 6200 thru 6933; Rolex Case 14000 thru 16808; Rolex Case 17000 thru 19028; Rolex Case 67180 thru 69628; Rolex Case 115210 thru 116599; Rolex Case 118205 thru 169628; Rolex Case 178158 thru 179459; Internal Parts. To be honest I got a little bit obsessed with tracking Rolex serial numbers (the data available is not great and Rolex have never released official serial numbers by date) to determine a more precise date when the watches I was looking at were made. Then buy it. As mentioned above, unlike almost every other watch brand, Rolex only sells new watches through authorized retailers. One standout 16750 is the collectible “root beer” or “coffee” bezel that is brown and gold. The 16760 was only offered with a Black and Red bezel and they also came with an insanely large crown guard. Some prices are ridiculous, but there are deals too. 18kt gold “Rollies” are the favored style of rappers and ballers around the world. Like the Yachtmaster, the Rolex Daytona draws a lot of attention, but it’s a beautiful watch and every year Rolex release a new combination of colors and metals. Also check websites like HQMilton  – one of my favorite watch websites and store based on San Francisco. Not all vintage Rolexes are super expensive, but they aren’t cheap. The 36mm and 41mm versions of the watch have the latest Chronergy escapement movements, boasting a more powerful engine than the 3130 found in my now discontinued 114060. A stainless steel Rolex is the watch the all other sport watches around the world have been modeled after – the stainless steel look is timeless. All of the Rolex owners I personally know over the age of 40 wear two-tone watches. Join the community to get access to our weekly news round-up, behind the scenes stories, and entrance into exclusive competitions. Legend has it that the 1992 model was originally conceived when Rolex was thinking about modernizing the Submariner – but they eventually were afraid of making such a radical change to the Submariner’s design so they launched an entirely new model – the Yachtmaster I. Within the sphere of Rolex, the above are bargains … but bargains for a Rolex … As you can imagine a watch with a factory dial is going to command a higher resale price and have more value than one modified aftermarket. Rolex retired the Sea Dweller in 2008 and released the Rolex Deep Sea, which is an even larger dive watch with a three-piece case and can withstand water depths of 12,000 feet. Bringing it back to the subject at hand, like determining the optimal order at your favourite fast-food restaurant, if you play around with the Datejust configurations offered, you can find better deals at retail for the long-standing favourite. Well not really, but kind of – by the 1970’s Rolex’s were becoming known as a luxury brand and all gold versions of the Rolex Submariner and Rolex GMT debuted, as did diamond and ruby dials and bezels. Most new Rolexes range in price between $5,000 – $30,000 depending on the model, metal, and features. Best of luck in your Rolex search. So you want to buy a Rolex? Following this rule will not only create a more matching aesthetic, but also make the Datejust lineup far more approachable for your wallet – starting at $7050 USD for the 36mm models and $7650 USD for 41mm versions. As a general pairing rule, I find smooth bezel Datejusts look better on an Oyster bracelet – while fluted bezel Datejusts looks better on a Jubilee. You can also search on Rolex Forums, which used to be very popular, but with the rise of social media more Rolex buyers are heading to Instagram instead of forums. The value of your Rolex Submariner will likely appreciate up to 5% per year (which yes is better than the stock market is currently doing), but I don’t recommend rolling over your 401k into Submariners! Great Savings & Free Delivery / Collection on many items They are also the go-to model for bankers, business executives, and anyone who wants to show just a little bit of gold. Since Rolex has produced millions and millions of watches over the past hundred years, I had a lot to learn. Some gold Rolex watches are more yellow or more or less bright than others. or Best Offer. In short, it depends on what you consider a bargain. Mareombra70 & Lapassioneperiltempo2007 Catalog Rolex watches Year 2019 - 2020 Hardcover Color Black cover with internal pages in Gold color Italian language Printed in Switzerland Photos of all Rolex … That said, the watches above are less expensive Rolex watches (for the brand at retail) relatively, and in comparison to so many other models, they are one thing above all… much, much closer to available. They simply aren’t as popular as the Submariner, GMT, or Sea Dwellers. First came the planning: I took some time to study the models, the features, the movements, and the history of each Rolex. Condition is "used". Rolex Green Magazine Catalogue Envelope Holder Heavy rare. Over the years the Day Date has been offered in thousands of different dial color variations – with some dials featuring diamonds or rubies as the hour markers. 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