Rolex Watches: The Complete Guide
There are few watches as iconic and timeless as a Rolex. The company was founded in 1905 in London, but has since moved to Switzerland, where all Rolex models are now manufactured. Throughout history, Rolex watches have stood out as some of the most technical, professional, and accurate timepieces available. From the Rolex Submariner to the Rolex Datejust, let’s take a look at Rolex’s extensive loop catalog of incredible watches.
Rolex Watch Models You Need To Know
The first-ever Rolex watch was the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, which was brought to market with much success in 1929 by one of Rolex’s two founders, Hans Wilsdorf. But wait… the company had been around for nearly 25 years by that point. What were they doing before 1929?
Rolex started out as simply a watch importer, selling watches that were manufactured by other companies. While they stamped their branding on some of these early watches, the Oyster Perpetual was the first timepiece truly made by Rolex as we know it today. Now, the brand has numerous different lines that cover a wide range of styles and functions. Let’s dive into all of the different Rolex models you can find at Avi & Co. and beyond…
Rolex Air-King
The Rolex Air-King series was designed in the 1950s and 1960s to pay homage to the bravery of pilots and air force fighters. The model features a recognizable black face and a slim profile, making it a perfect entry-level Rolex for those who want a more subdued, versatile watch.
Rolex Cellini
The Rolex Cellini showcases a streamlined, elegant design. While the watch was discontinued in 2022, it remains highly sought-after and was a favorite of American President Barack Obama.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Perhaps better known as simply the Rolex Daytona, this watch is easily recognizable and loved by many famous Rolex wearers. The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona was designed with racing drivers in mind and was brought to market in 1963. Its three subdials make the watch highly recognizable. Special edition Rolex Daytona models are highly collectible, and this line as a whole is much-loved by celebrities.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial
Rolex Datejust
Introduced in 1945, the Datejust was the first self-winding, waterproof chronometer wristwatch with the date window function at 3 o’clock. It is considered an elegant staple of the Rolex lineup and is available in a number of different sizes and styles. For example, the Rolex Datejust 31 offers a slim profile perfect for a woman’s wrist. The Rolex Datejust 36 offers a middle ground in terms of sizing and can work well for either gender. The Rolex Datejust 41 is traditionally a men’s size, but it can also work well for women trying out the oversize “boyfriend watch” trend.
Rolex Day-Date
Often dubbed the “President’s Watch” for its popularity among U.S. presidents, the Rolex Day-Date was released in 1956 and displays both the day of the month and day of the week. President Lyndon B. Johnson wore a gold Rolex Day-Date 36 – and he even popularized the Rolex Day-Date 36 model further by gifting it to many of his friends. Modern-day presidents have preferred larger silhouettes, such as the Rolex Day-Date 40. All of the Rolex Day-Date II and Day-Date models are considered paragons of elegant, timeless watchmaking.
Rolex Day-Date 40, 18K Yellow Gold, White Roman Dial
Rolex Explorer
The Rolex Explorer was released in 1953, and it is known for its reliability in even the most extreme conditions. It has been tested in some of Earth’s harshest environments. The Explorer is especially well-known for its association with Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man to summit Mount Everest. The New Zealander wore a similar Rolex model during his historic climb. Now, the original has been replaced by the Rolex Explorer 2. The Rolex Explorer 2 improves upon the initial model with a 24-hour etched bezel that helps explorers tell time in low-light conditions.
Rolex GMT Master II
The Rolex GMT Master II is the 1982 update to the original Rolex GMT line. It was originally designed for pilots and aviation professionals, and it simultaneously displays two time zones. The two-tone bezel is an iconic component of Rolex GMT models, and Rolex GMT Master 2 watches remain some of Rolex’s most sought-after timepieces.
Rolex GMT Master II "Batman" Edition
Rolex Milgauss
The Rolex Milgauss is well-known for its scientific heritage. It was introduced in 1956 and was able to withstand magnetic fields up to 1,000 gauss. The unique aesthetic of the watch, including its lightning-bolt second hand, make it a coveted collector’s item today.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual
The first “official” Rolex model, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 is now seen as the ideal entry-level Rolex for anyone looking to kickstart a watch collection. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 offers a versatile profile suitable for wearers of any gender, durable steel construction, and a variety of dial colors and styles to add a splash of personality.
Rolex Pearlmaster
Launched in 1992, the Rolex Pearlmaster offers a new take on the Rolex Lady Datejust (the Rolex Datejust 31). It showcases elegant, feminine style and often highlights precious metals and precious gems. Although the Pearlmaster line is now discontinued, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many Rolex collectors.
Rolex Sea-Dweller
The Rolex Sea-Dweller was released in 1967 and built on the Rolex Submariner’s legacy as a deep-sea diving watch. The Rolex Sea Dweller was crafted with the needs of professional divers in mind. Early editions offered water resistance of 2,000 feet, while later Rolex Sea Dweller watches boasted water resistance of a whopping 4,000 feet. This stylish watch epitomizes Rolex’s commitment to blending form and function.
Rolex Deepsea, Reference #116660
Rolex Sky-Dweller
The Rolex Sky-Dweller is a professional Rolex watch that offers a functional dual time zone display without compromising on high-end craftsmanship and aesthetics. The Rolex Sky Dweller has a signature fluted bezel that elevates its look, making it a great choice for any savvy traveler looking for a timepiece that perfectly marries form and function.
Rolex Submariner
A staple of the Rolex lineup, the Submariner hit the market in 1953. It was the first ever divers’ watch, and even the earlier models were waterproof to 330 feet, or 100 meters. The Rolex Submariner set the standard for divers’ watches for years to come, and it continues to be a favorite Rolex for many wearers.
Rolex Submariner, 18K Yellow Gold and Stainless Steel
Rolex Yacht-Master
The Rolex Yacht-Master has a rich nautical heritage and harkens back to the 1950s. Over the years, the watch evolved into the Rolex Yacht Master II but has kept key elements of its style and function, including a bidirectional rotatable bezel, polished design, and luminous markers and hands that make the Rolex Yacht Master II perfect for seafaring (and everyday wear).
FAQs About Rolex Watches
Why is Rolex so expensive?
Rolex watches, such as the prestigious Rolex Day-Date II, are expensive due to the brand’s prestige and reputation, innovation and technology, and limited supply. Rolex produces a limited quantity of watches each year, which drives up demand as collectors and enthusiasts clamor to get their hands on these timepieces. Shopping on the secondary market at retailers like Avi & Co. can be an excellent way to find the Rolex you want without fighting your way through a years-long waitlist from the manufacturer.
How to tell if a Rolex is real?
Some of the key factors to check when trying to determine if a Rolex is real include the serial number, weight, caseback, Cyclops lens, movement, crown, second hand, and dial. Every real Rolex watch will have a verifiable model number, seen on the 12 o’clock side of the watch where the band and the lug meet.
Is a Rolex actually a good investment?
Rolex watches make strong investments due to their proven track record of retaining value as well as their exclusivity and brand recognition. These are high-quality timepieces that are built to last. Certain models, especially those that are limited edition or carry historical significance, can appreciate a lot in value over the years. For example, the Rolex Datejust 36 model favored by President Dwight D. Eisenhower has become coveted by collectors worldwide.
How much is a Rolex watch?
Rolex watch prices can range from the entry-level, starting around $5,500, to the luxurious, with some models selling for over $75,000. Certain vintage or collectible models can also exceed six figures. However, one of the beautiful things about Rolex watches is that there is a model to suit virtually every price point.
How much is my Rolex worth?
To find out how much your Rolex watch is worth, you should take it to a trusted secondary market watch reseller like Avi & Co. Our experts can take a look at your watch and give you an estimate of its value. The worth of a Rolex watch will depend on factors like its condition, model desirability, other recent sales, and more.
Where are Rolex watches made?
While the Rolex company was initially founded in London, it has since moved its headquarter to Switzerland, which is where all Rolex watches are made. Everything from the striking Rolex Datejust 41 to the iconic Rolex Submariner is manufactured in Switzerland at one of the brand’s four facilities.
Do Rolex hold their value?
Rolex watches do tend to hold their value, and they can even increase in value over time. The prestige of the Rolex brand name, the luxury materials, and the pristine craftsmanship all contribute to the lasting value of these classic timepieces.