How To Buy a Rolex Watch

Rolex watches stand as a universal symbol of excellence, symbolizing success and personal achievements. The journey to purchasing your first Rolex, however, may seem like an overwhelming experience. With a myriad of options and considerations, it’s understandable that first-time buyers can feel lost at the starting line. This guide is designed to help you along the path to your first Rolex purchase, breaking down what might initially seem like a daunting journey.

Buying Your First Rolex Video

Interested in a general outline of the Rolex buying process? Check out the video below for an overview! 

Now that you’ve seen the key steps involved in buying a Rolex, let’s explore the many different factors and considerations that can influence your decision. Whether you’re interested in a new model or a pre-owned piece, understanding the unique advantages of each option will help you make the most informed choice. We will also cover how to identify and locate a trustworthy dealer and what to look for when searching for the best first Rolex that fits both your lifestyle and your investment goals. 

Why Should You Buy a Rolex Watch?

Buying a Rolex isn’t just about owning a luxury timepiece – it’s about investing in craftsmanship, heritage, and enduring value. Whether you’re looking for your first Rolex or adding to a growing collection, understanding what sets the brand apart can help you make a confident decision. One of the best ways to appreciate the appeal of a Rolex is to look at how it earned its reputation in the first place.

About Rolex and Its History

Rolex’s history began in 1905 when Hans Wilsdorf founded the brand with a vision of creating precise and reliable wristwatches. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Rolex has since set the standard for innovation and luxury in watchmaking. Some of the most important milestones in Rolex’s history include:

• 1926 – Created the world’s first waterproof wristwatch, the Rolex Oyster.
  
• 1931 – Invented the self-winding “Perpetual” rotor mechanism.
  
• 1945 – Introduced the Rolex Datejust, the first wristwatch with an automatic date-change function.
  
• 1953 – Launched the Rolex Submariner, pioneering the modern dive watch.
  
• 1955 – Released the GMT-Master, specifically designed for international pilots and travelers.
  
• 1963 – Debuted the Cosmograph Daytona, setting the benchmark for sports chronographs.
  
• Today – Produces nearly one million watches annually, maintains in-house production of exclusive alloys, and sponsors leading global sporting, cultural, and environmental initiatives.

Celebrations and Status Symbols

There are many different reasons why someone would want to buy a Rolex. Some people want a Rolex watch due to their impeccable quality and universal recognition; others buy one as a means to celebrate a specific life event, and some seek out specific models due to their amazing ability to serve as wearable investments.

Many people choose to purchase a Rolex watch as a means of celebrating a significant life event. Whether it is a milestone birthday, a wedding, the birth of a child, or even just achieving your professional goals, a Rolex is always the perfect way to commemorate a special occasion, and it can be worn every single day as a constant reminder of a remarkable time in your life.

Additionally, since Rolex is the world’s most famous luxury brand, Rolex watches serve as universal status symbols that are instantly recognized all around the world. Regardless of age or model, all Rolex watches convey to others that you have attained a certain level of success in your personal and professional life. Rolex are by no means the absolute most expensive luxury watches available, but when it comes to widespread recognition and celebrating your accomplishments, nothing makes a statement quite like a Rolex.

Investment Potential

Most people buy watches simply because they like them and want to wear them, but luxury timepieces also have an amazing ability to retain their value over the years and Rolex watches can retain their value better than almost anything else. Rolex watches can serve as investments that you can wear and enjoy every day, and they can even appreciate in value if given enough time or the right market conditions.

For some buyers, purchasing Rolex watches is just like adding stocks or other assets to their portfolio. These types of buyers may purchase Rolex models due to their value, rarity, and potential future value, rather than due to any reasons related to owning or wearing the specific watch.

While buying a Rolex watch is by no means a plan to get rich quickly, it is undeniable that the prices for many of them keep going up each year. We always say that it is most important to buy what you love, but if you are savvy about your purchases, you can make a decent amount of money doing nothing more than owning the right Rolex watches and then letting go of them once prices increase.

Is it Worth Investing in a Rolex Watch?

With that in mind, is it worth taking the leap and investing in a Rolex watch? For many, the initial investment will be significant because the entry point to Rolex ownership starts at a few thousand dollars minimum.

However, as mentioned above, Rolex watches almost always hold their value. The odds of them appreciating are also very high, given the right conditions.

A few conditions that can significantly affect your watch’s value include buying new or pre-owned, market demand, and condition. Is the watch brand new? If so, it may or may not depreciate after you leave the store, depending on how sought-after it is. If it is pre-owned, what is the condition of the watch? Considering these factors, we’d say it’s almost always worth investing in a Rolex watch.

Buying a Rolex Watch: About Rolex’s Catalog

Rolex makes an incredibly wide range of models that span everything from classically styled dress watches to purpose-built divers that can travel to the very deepest parts of the ocean. However, despite this diversity and numerous different models that the brand produces, all Rolex watches fall into one of two categories: either Classic or Professional.

Classic Models

Rolex’s Classic collection focuses on timeless design and refined aesthetics rather than utility or sport-specific functions. These models — like the Oyster Perpetual, Datejust, and Day-Date – are built for everyday versatility and pair well with nearly any style or setting. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, the Classic line offers strong options for first-time buyers and seasoned collectors alike. Here’s a quick look at the standout models in the Classic category:

Model	Key Features	Best For
Datejust	Iconic date window, Cyclops lens, broad size and material range	Everyday wear, versatile first Rolex
Day-Date (President)	Day and date display, fluted bezel, only in precious metals	Formal occasions, luxury collectors
Oyster Perpetual	Clean dial, no date, vibrant color options, entry-level pricing	Minimalists, new buyers
Sky-Dweller	Annual calendar, dual time zone, Saros movement	Frequent travelers, tech-forward buyers

Professional Models

The Professional side of Rolex’s catalog includes the brand’s legendary sport and tool watches, purpose-built for adventure, endurance, and precision under pressure. From the deep-diving Submariner to the pilot-friendly GMT-Master II and the track-ready Daytona, these models are known for their robust construction, larger cases, and practical features like rotating bezels and dual time zone displays. Below is a snapshot of Rolex’s key Professional models and what sets each one apart:

Model	Key Features	Best For
Submariner	Rotating dive bezel, 300m water resistance, robust design	Diving, sporty everyday wear
GMT-Master II	Dual time zone, 24-hour bezel, travel-focused	Pilots, global travelers
Daytona	Chronograph, racing heritage, high-demand model	Motorsport fans, collectors
Explorer / Explorer II	Rugged build, 24-hour hand (Explorer II), legibility-focused	Adventurers, tool watch enthusiasts
Yacht-Master	Nautical style, luxurious feel, polished bezel	Sailing lifestyle, sport-meets-luxury buyers
Milgauss / Air-King	Anti-magnetic properties (Milgauss), aviation-inspired (Air-King)	Engineers, science and aviation enthusiasts

How to Choose a Rolex Watch

Once you decide to buy a Rolex, the next step will be figuring out which model is right for you. Rolex makes watches for everyone from scuba divers to frequent travelers, and on the pre-owned market, they can cost as little as a few thousand dollars all the way up into the millions.

How Do You Plan on Wearing Your Rolex?

Before you start browsing through models, it’s first important to ask yourself how you plan on wearing your Rolex. If you see yourself only wearing it on special occasions or with formal attire, then you might want to consider one of the many timeless and traditional models from Rolex’s classic lineup. Alternatively, if you plan on wearing your watch all day, every day, and through a wide variety of active situations, one sport model, such as a Rolex Explorer or a Rolex Submariner, might be a better fit.

It’s also important to figure out what you need from your watch. Finding a watch that has a style you like is certainly important, but it is also crucial that your Rolex does what you need it to do daily. For example, if you require a date display on your watch, then a classic time-only model like an Oyster Perpetual may not be ideal for you – even if you love the way it looks. Similarly, if you require your watch to have precision stopwatch functionality, the Daytona will be the obvious choice since it is the only Rolex model with a chronograph movement. Knowing what you need out of your watch up-front will significantly help narrow down your search to just the models that will ultimately make you happy.

Find Out What You Like

Once you have a rough idea of what you need out of your watch, the next step is finding out what you like. For example, if you have decided that you need a classic everyday watch that has a date display, the Rolex Datejust is a great place to start your search, and there are countless different variations and configurations that span numerous different case sizes, materials, dials, bezels, and bracelets.

While it may sound obvious, the actual size of the watch is one point that you should not overlook. Aesthetics and functionality certainly are important, but if the watch simply doesn’t fit your wrist properly, you will ultimately find that you don’t wear it as much as you should. Most of men’s Rolex watches have cases that range between 36mm and 41mm, but there are some models as large as 44mm, which are perfect for those with larger wrists or who want a timepiece with a bit more wrist presence.

Additionally, it is equally important to note that not all Rolex watches are available in all sizes. In fact, many of Rolex’s various sport and tool watches from the Professional side of its catalog are only produced in a single size, and depending on your wrist, that one size may or may not be agreeable to you. Nothing is worse than spending a ton of time to find what you think is your dream watch, only to discover that, due to its size, it is not something that you can comfortably wear. While most Rolex models have fairly standard and versatile case sizes, this is just one other thing to be aware of as you go about browsing through models and narrowing down your search.

Set a Budget

Lastly, when shopping for a Rolex, it is important that you go into it knowing how much you plan on spending. The price of a Rolex watch can range from as little as a few thousand dollars all the way up to well over a million, and sometimes it is the smallest details that are responsible for an additional zero (or two) at the end of a watch’s price. In the same way that you don’t want to waste time looking at watches that you cannot comfortably wear, it is equally frustrating to find your dream watch and then realize that it is far outside the realm of any financial possibility.

Simply put, there are some Rolex models that you will not find below certain price points, and this is especially important to remember if you are working with a limited budget. For example, the complexity of the Sky-Dweller’s in-house annual calendar movement guarantees that it is consistently one of the more expensive Rolex models available. If you are looking for a luxury watch under $10k, it is best to explore some of the more basic pre-owned models, particularly from the vintage Rolex selection. If, after setting your budget, you realize that all of the Rolex models you like are too expensive, then that is a good sign that you may need to save a little more before you can ultimately make your purchase.

How to Buy a New Rolex Watch

Rolex does not sell any of its watches online, so when you are considering how to buy a new Rolex, the process is as simple as going onto the brand’s website and looking up the location of your nearest authorized Rolex retailer. However, anyone that has tried doing this within the last few years will have inevitably discovered that it is nowhere near this simple or straightforward.

Pricing

At a retail level, Rolex watches are not all that expensive compared to many other luxury brands. Most Rolex watches cost between $5,000 and $50,000 when purchased brand-new, which is certainly a significant amount of money, but relatively modest compared to some brands, whose least expensive offerings start out at six figures. Additionally, Rolex retailers are not allowed to jack up the prices of their watches, so the prices that you see online are the actual prices that you will pay. However, whether you will be able to find a brand-new Rolex watch for sale is a completely different story.

Availability

Because Rolex is the most famous luxury watch company in the entire world, the demand for Rolex watches far exceeds their supply on a global level, and the vast majority of Rolex’s most desirable models are completely sold out at retailers. Although they are still in production and technically available at retailers, they cannot be purchased brand-new without spending a considerable amount of time on a waiting list.

The Waitlists

It is nearly impossible to talk about buying a new Rolex watch without discussing the infamous waitlists that exist for many of the brand’s most iconic and popular models. Many of Rolex’s most famous timepieces – including all stainless-steel sports watches – are perpetually sold out at dealers around the globe, and most have multi-year waiting lists with no guarantee that you will ever receive a watch before the model gets discontinued entirely. It has been reported that waitlists for some of the brand’s top models, like the stainless-steel and ceramic Daytona, still exceed five years at some retail locations, even though the model has been available for several years now.

Which Rolex Models are Hard to Get?

While many of the stainless-steel sports models remain the hardest to find at retail, some of the most sought-after references today include the Daytona ref. 116500LN with a ceramic bezel, the GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLRO (Pepsi) and 126710BLNR (Batman) both featuring the iconic two-tone bezel, and the Submariner 41mm ref. 126610LN, which has become a staple among collectors. Additionally, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection, particularly the 36mm and 41mm models with their vibrant, Stella-inspired dials, has seen a surge in popularity, and availability at authorized retailers remains scarce. 

Do You Have to Wait to Buy A Rolex?

Joining a long waitlist isn’t the only option if you’ve got your eye on the newer, most desirable Rolex watches. You can turn to the secondary market if you don’t want to wait years to purchase one at retail. Should you choose to wait, the possibility that the watch of your dreams will be discontinued before you get the chance to buy it also becomes a factor.

With that in mind, it doesn’t usually take long for the newest Rolex offerings to trickle down to the pre-owned level. However, there are many factors to consider should you choose that route. First, the watch will likely command several thousand dollars over its original price tag. Rolex watches tend to hold their value well, though. Especially long-term. Paying extra to skip the waitlists might not be a huge concern if you’re in it for the long haul. Also, the question of the watch’s authenticity comes into play. However, if you shop from a trusted reseller, like us at Bob’s Watches, they will shoulder that responsibility and often even offer an authenticity guarantee. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you’re willing to join a waitlist or pay a premium on the secondary market.

How to Buy Pre-Owned Rolex Watches

Unless you want one of the handful of Rolex models that are currently in production – and you don’t mind waiting around for your name to come up to the top of the waiting list, then the pre-owned market is going to be your best bet when considering how to buy a used Rolex.

Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex

There are many reasons why you would buy a pre-owned Rolex instead of a new one. For starters, you will be able to find all the models that are currently in production and sold out at retailers. While you will almost certainly have to pay a premium to skip the line and get your hands on them today, there are many who feel that the immediate availability is well worth the additional price.

Additionally, not only will you have access to all of the current-production models, but you will also have your choice of all the discontinued and vintage references from Rolex’s archives. Remember, Rolex only sells brand-new watches at its authorized retailers and boutiques, so if you want an older model or one of the mega-collectible vintage Rolex references, then the pre-owned market will be your only option.

On top of that, it’s also important to note that the cheapest Rolex watches are going to be found on the pre-owned market. At retail, the most affordable Rolex models are going to cost a minimum of $5,000 to $6,000, but when it comes to pre-owned Rolex watches, prices start out at approximately half of that for older discontinued references. If you are working with a limited budget, the pre-owned market is easily going to be your best bet, as it will offer the widest range of options and the least expensive prices.

Lastly, a pre-owned watch does not in any way mean that it will be old and beat up. In many instances, you will find completely unworn Rolex watches on the pre-owned market, whose original owners sold them because they knew they could make a significant profit by selling them to a pre-owned dealer. For example, if you are lucky enough to be able to buy a stainless steel Rolex Daytona at retail, you can immediately turn around, sell it, and more than double your money in the process. Additionally, watches can always be restored and repaired, so there are many older models that have lived previous lives that have been fully brought back to their original factory specifications before they get sold on the secondary market.

Different Types of Conditions

When it comes to pre-owned Rolex watches, you will find examples in a wide range of different conditions. Some are virtually brand-new and entirely unworn, while others are not running and are essentially fixer-upper project watches. Below is a quick overview of the main types of conditions that you are likely to encounter when looking to buy a Rolex watch.

New Old Stock

In many instances, the most expensive pre-owned Rolex watches are those that are in the best condition. While the right patina can be desirable on vintage watches, there will always be some collectors who place a strong value on perfect condition pieces. New Old Stock (NOS) watches are essentially brand-new watches that have never been worn or used. You will often come across new old stock examples of modern Rolex watches, but you will also sometimes encounter NOS vintage watches, and it is some of these models that rank among the most expensive Rolex watches in existence.

Mint Condition

For something to be new old stock, it really must be entirely unworn and in pristine condition. However, there are many other Rolex watches out there that have been worn but never abused, and that show no signs of wear or damage. These Mint Condition watches are going to generally be the second most expensive, and since their condition is contingent on not showing signs of wear, vintage mint condition watches are quite a bit less common than their modern counterparts.

Used and Unpolished

Once a watch has been worn for a while and has accrued some marks and scratches, it falls into the “Used” category. While you can always service and polish watches to remove damage and restore their original finish, it is the unpolished examples that are worth more to collectors. This is because you can always polish a watch but can never un-polish it. Over the years, many Rolex watches will need polishing, and so it is rather rare to find entirely unpolished examples of older vintage references. On modern watches, the price premium for an unpolished example can be relatively negligible, but for highly collectible vintage references, being unpolished can mean thousands of dollars in resale value.

Used and Polished

All of the other previously worn watches that have already been polished fall into the greater used category, and it is this Used and Polished section that accounts for the majority of Rolex watches available on the second-hand market. These watches may be free from all marks and scratches, but because they have previously been polished, they are worth less than their unpolished counterparts. Again, the difference in value can be more-or-less negligible for modern references, but for collectible vintage models, polishing the watch can significantly detract from its resale value.

Fixer Upper

At the bottom of the Rolex condition hierarchy are the Fixer Upper watches. These timepieces are often not running properly, need service, or can even have missing parts; however, they are by far the least expensive. The average Rolex watch contains over a hundred tiny parts, so you should be careful when buying any fixer-upper watches and really make sure that you are positive that you can get them repaired in a cost-effective manner. In some instances, the cost of repairs can end up being more than the value of the watch itself, especially if you need a lot of replacement parts, and in some instances, replacement components are entirely unavailable.

Box and Papers

Regardless of the condition of the Rolex watch itself, if it is still accompanied by its original Rolex box and warranty card or paperwork, then it will likely be worth more because of it. For modern Rolex watches, having the box and papers might only be worth an extra hundred dollars or so when it comes to resale value. However, for collectible vintage Rolex references, a full set can mean a huge premium simply due to how few owners managed to hang onto the box and papers for multiple decades.

When it comes to having a full kit for a Rolex, the more materials the better. The original box and warranty papers/card are certainly necessary to qualify, but sometimes you will find a watch that still has every single thing that came with it from the dealer, including the original purchase receipt. All of these things help establish provenance and can also increase overall resale value.

Find a Dealer that Has What You Want

Once you have narrowed down your search and have decided on the specific Rolex model you want, the next step will be to find a reputable pre-owned dealer that has the watch you need. Finding a pre-owned dealer that has the watch you want is one thing, but finding an honest and reputable one is far more important than getting a good price.

This is one area where you never want to cut corners, and you really should only buy your Rolex from a well-known and established dealer that has been in the business for a number of years, and that has many positive reviews. Additionally, you also want to buy from a company that specializes in watches. Some local jewelry stores may sell used Rolex watches at fair prices, but if the people who work there are not watch experts themselves, they may be unintentionally selling you one that has either non-genuine components or needs a significant amount of work.

When it comes to buying a pre-owned Rolex, you get what you pay for, and the cheapest price is never going to be your best option.

Verify Authenticity

Once you have the watch in front of you, the next key step is to verify that it is entirely genuine, both inside and out. Since the average Rolex watch is made up of more than a hundred tiny components, it is of the utmost importance that every single one of them is entirely authentic.

Since Rolex is the world’s most famous luxury watch brand, it has become a popular target for counterfeiters, and it is estimated that there are now more fake Rolex watches in the world than the real thing. To make matters worse, modern technology has allowed counterfeiters to make increasingly deceptive fakes, and sometimes it takes both a keen eye and an expert-level knowledge to truly spot one. Make sure you learn the basics of how to spot a fake Rolex, but for some of the highly convincing models, your best protection against getting a fake is to only buy from a trusted and reputable dealer.

Verify Condition

In addition to verifying the authenticity of the Rolex you intend to purchase; it is also important to verify its condition – both cosmetic and mechanical. External conditions are easy to ascertain for yourself, but it is important to note that certain components cannot be restored or have any damage to them remedied. For example, a small scratch on the side of the case can easily be polished away, but any damage to the dial – no matter how small or faint – is likely to be permanent unless you replace the entire dial itself.

Beyond the dial, hands, bezel, and case, it is also important to check the condition of the bracelet. While the bracelet may seem almost like an afterthought, Rolex bracelets can be worn out over the years and replacements can be rather costly, especially when they are made from solid gold or platinum. Bracelets are an integral part of a Rolex’s iconic appearance, and it is always important to remember to check bracelet condition whenever you are considering the purchase of a Rolex.

While the cosmetic condition is certainly important, the mechanical condition of a Rolex is equally crucial to determining whether you should purchase it, as this will be what determines the actual performance of the watch. Rolex watches cost a minimum of several hundred dollars to properly service, and if the watch is badly damaged and in need of numerous replacement parts, it is not uncommon to have repair bills exceed a thousand dollars. Without being able to open up the watch and inspect its movement, you can only go by what you can feel and observe, but there are a few things you can check to verify whether or not it is running properly.

For starters, try running through all the watch’s various functions. Does everything function as it should? Does the watch feel rough or gritty while winding it or operating its features? Does the movement rattle when you gently shake it or move the watch around? You may not be a watchmaker or expert, but remembering to go over some of these basic points can help ensure that you do not get stuck with a Rolex watch that is going to require a ton of repairs.

Confirm Warranty and Guarantee

It is also imperative that whatever pre-owned Rolex dealer you choose stands behind their watches. For example, here at Bob’s Watches, we stand behind each, and every Rolex that we sell with a full 1-year warranty to make sure that your new watch is in excellent condition and running properly when it reaches you.

On top of that, we also offer a lifetime authenticity guarantee on every single timepiece, so that you can rest assured that all 100+ components in your watch are 100% genuine. Furthermore, we also offer our customers the option of ordering a third-party certification report, so if you still have any doubts about whether your watch is genuine, you can get a fully independent authenticity and condition report for your Rolex from Watch CSA, the leading authority in watch certification services.

Not all pre-owned Rolex dealers offer these types of safeguards for buyers, but when it comes to purchasing an expensive item like a Rolex, these are the type of things that you really need to look for – especially if you are just starting out. Nothing will turn someone off to watches more than having a bad experience with their first purchase, and the best way to guarantee that you have a positive first-time buying experience is to buy from a trusted and verified seller that has a track record of happy customers and completely stands behind their watches. Lastly, it’s incredibly important to do your research and ask questions. 

Many Rolex models look similar, and understanding all the nuances and differences between them is no easy task. Read reviews and articles, and don’t be afraid to ask other collectors whenever you don’t understand something. Most people who like watches are always happy to talk about them, and you’ll be surprised to find how willing they are to help you learn more about this fascinating hobby.

How to Buy a Rolex Online

In today’s digital age, buying a Rolex online has never been more convenient and accessible. Although Rolex itself doesn’t offer direct online purchases, most authorized dealers and reputable pre-owned websites provide extensive online platforms for purchasing. These platforms allow you to browse a wide range of Rolex models, compare prices, and purchase without ever having to step foot in a store. Whether you’re looking for a newly released model or a vintage gem, learning how to buy Rolex online gives you the flexibility and convenience of finding your perfect watch from the comfort of your own home. 

Buying a New Rolex Online 

Although Rolex doesn’t sell directly online, many authorized dealers offer online catalogs to browse available and in stock models. These platforms allow you to view the latest releases and verify availability at local retailers. Even then, buying a new Rolex at an authorized dealer often means facing long waitlists, especially for popular and high demand models like the Submariner or Daytona. Many buyers end up waiting months or even years to purchase the model they want at retail price. 

For those looking to avoid the wait, turning to the secondary market for new or like-new models is a viable option. While prices for such pieces may be higher than retail, platforms like Bob’s Watches offer immediate access to popular models without lengthy delays. This option provides a way to secure your dream Rolex faster, with the added benefit of not having to wait on waiting lists. 

Buying a Pre-Owned Rolex Online 

The pre-owned Rolex online market is booming, offering a variety of models from mint condition to vintage pieces. Buying pre-owned provides access to models that are discontinued and are no longer in production, which can be an attractive option for collectors. However, when purchasing online, it’s crucial to ensure the platform offers transparency regarding the condition and authenticity of the watch. 

Legitimate and reputable online dealers like Bob’s Watches provide detailed condition reports, high-quality photos, and authenticity guarantees. These platforms provide peace of mind, knowing that the watch has undergone proper vetting and inspection. By choosing trusted sources, buyers can feel confident and secure in purchasing a pre-owned Rolex and enjoy the quality and value of their investment. 

Buying a Rolex Watch: A Few of Our Favorites

Every single Rolex will make a worthwhile addition to any luxury watch collection, so when choosing between Rolex models, there really is no way you can go wrong. No matter what Rolex you buy, you will be receiving one of the finest timepieces in the world, and what is most important is how to buy a Rolex watch that is perfect for you. To help you start your search, below we are taking a closer look at a few of our favorites.

Rolex Submariner

First released in 1953 as one of the world’s very first dive watches (and the first one to achieve a depth rating of 100 meters), the Rolex Submariner is a true industry icon and easily one of the most famous luxury watches ever created. Even though it was originally designed specifically for scuba diving and underwater use, the Rolex Submariner is now worn by countless individuals all around the world, regardless of whether they dive, simply due to its ultra-durable construction and timeless good looks.

Although the Rolex Submariner was initially offered only as a time-only model in stainless steel that was fitted with a black dial and bezel, Rolex has expanded the Submariner collection over the years to include both date and no-date models, along with several different material options and colors. Regardless of the specific model, its materials, or configuration, all modern Rolex Submariner watches feature scratch-resistant Cerachrom (ceramic) bezels and offer 300 meters (1,000 feet) of water resistance.

Rolex Datejust

Launched in 1945 to celebrate the brand’s 40th anniversary, the Rolex Datejust was the watch that forever set the standard for how a date display on a wristwatch should function, and it has remained in constant production ever since. Today, the Datejust is Rolex’s most diverse collection of watches, offered in a wide range of different sizes, materials, and configurations, along with holding the distinction of being Rolex’s best-selling model of all time.

Unlike Rolex’s various sports watches, which were each developed specifically for a particular sport, environment, or demanding lifestyle activity, the Datejust was simply created to be a durable and reliable watch that could be worn every single day throughout a wide variety of different activities. 

Additionally, when shopping for a Rolex Datejust on the pre-owned market, you will have the option of case sizes that range from 26mm to 41mm in diameter, along with a near-endless list of different configurations that span multiple materials, dials, bezels, bracelets, and movements. The Rolex Datejust was conceived in an era before it was a common practice to own multiple watches, and it was built to be the one quality watch that a person could own and wear for the rest of their life.

Rolex Daytona

The Daytona is Rolex’s collection of chronograph watches that were built for the world of professional automotive racing. Launched in 1963, the Rolex Daytona gets its name from the famous Daytona International Speedway in Florida, and although few still use this chronograph for timing laps at the racetrack, the Rolex Daytona can be spotted on the wrist of countless celebrities and professional athletes all around the globe. 

When it comes to ultra-desirable and collectible Rolex models, the Daytona is typically the first name out of a person’s mouth. Looking at a list of the most expensive Rolex watches of all time, it is no coincidence that the Daytona makes up most of them, and vintage Rolex Daytona watches are often some of the most expensive models available. At a retail level, most Daytona watches are completely sold out and cannot be purchased without spending a significant amount of time on a waiting list. Consequently, most pre-owned Rolex Daytona watches trade hands for values that are more than twice their original brand-new retail prices.

Rolex Day-Date

The Rolex Day-Date is a quintessential symbol of prestige and success, renowned for being the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week spelled out in full. Introduced in 1956, this iconic timepiece has become synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, often seen adorning the wrists of world leaders, dignitaries, and celebrities across the globe. Crafted exclusively in precious metals – 18k gold or platinum – each Rolex Day-Date model is a statement of unparalleled craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

The Day-Date’s distinctive feature, the day display available in a choice of 26 languages, reflects Rolex’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail. This, coupled with the President bracelet, adds to the watch’s allure, offering unmatched comfort and style. The Rolex Day-Date serves as a symbol of achievement and an heirloom that is often passed down through generations.

In the realm of luxury watches, Rolex Day-Date watches hold a special place. It’s not just sought after for its aesthetic appeal and fine craftsmanship, but also for its investment value. Vintage Day-Date models, especially those with rare dials or historically significant provenance, command high prices on the secondary market, making them a favorite among collectors. Despite its exclusivity, the demand for the Day-Date remains high, with certain models and configurations subject to waiting lists, reflecting its enduring legacy and desirability among watch enthusiasts around the world.

Rolex GMT-Master II

The Rolex GMT-Master II is an iconic timepiece that epitomizes the spirit of exploration and adventure. Initially introduced in 1955 as the GMT-Master, this watch was designed in collaboration with Pan American Airways to meet the needs of international pilots. The GMT-Master II, which debuted in 1983, brought significant advancements, most notably its ability to display three different time zones simultaneously, thanks to its innovative movement and the addition of a rotatable 24-hour graduated bezel.

Crafted to endure the rigors of long-haul flights, the GMT-Master II is not only a tool watch but has also become a symbol of sophistication and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Its distinctive bezel, available in various two-tone color combinations – such as the famous “Rolex Pepsi” (red and blue), “Rolex Batman” (blue and black), and “Rolex Root Beer” (brown and black) – is not just functional but also highly recognizable and aesthetically appealing. These color schemes have not only practical purposes, marking day from night hours, but have also become defining features of the model’s identity.

The versatility of the GMT-Master II makes it a favorite among pilots, travelers, and watch enthusiasts alike. Its ability to seamlessly transition from the cockpit to a formal dinner underscores Rolex’s mastery in creating watches that are both functional and elegant. With options in stainless steel, gold, and two-tone configurations, there’s a GMT-Master II to suit a wide range of tastes and occasions.

As with many Rolex models, the GMT-Master II enjoys a strong resale value, particularly for rare or discontinued versions. Its enduring popularity ensures that it remains a coveted piece for collectors and newcomers to the world of luxury watches. The GMT-Master II represents a blend of technological innovation, history, and style, making it a timeless piece that continues to capture the imagination of those who wear it.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Rolex?

Now that you’ve learned all the necessary details of how to buy Rolex watches, it’s time to make an informed decision. Whether you’re considering a brand-new model or exploring pre-owned options, understanding what to look for – such as authenticity, condition, and price – will help ensure your purchase is both rewarding and wise. With a vast array of choices, each Rolex has its own story to share, and finding the perfect one for you is a journey worthwhile. 

When buying a Rolex, it’s important to prioritize your needs, budget, and preferences. A Rolex is not just a watch; it’s a symbol of quality and craftsmanship. By doing your research and choosing the right model, you can make an investment that you will enjoy for years to come. 

Explore the wide range of certified pre-owned Rolex watches for sale available at Bob’s Watches and take your time to find the perfect timepiece that fits your lifestyle and goals. Whether new or pre-owned, purchasing a Rolex is an exciting and rewarding journey that can bring lasting value and personal satisfaction.