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Rolex Valentine’s Day Buying Guide

Paul Altieri

Forget the chocolates – this year, celebrate romance with some wrist candy!

This Valentine’s Day, give that special someone in your life a gift that they can cherish forever. Rolex watches are built to last a lifetime and they often become heirloom pieces that get passed down to future generations, telling a family’s story in the process.

To help you choose the perfect gift for your loved one, we have put together a Valentine’s Day buying guide full of amazing Valentine’s Day Rolex watch gifts that perfectly represent eternal love. Whether you need a gift for her, a gift for him, or even a gift for yourself, our Rolex Valentine’s Day Collection is packed full of great options that are guaranteed to make your loved one smile this holiday.

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Datejust

Rolex Watches For Him

Even if that special guy in your life already owns a Rolex watch, we can guarantee that he will absolutely love another. Below are some of our top Rolex picks for him this Valentine’s Day.

Rolex Daytona ref. 116500LN

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Daytona

Daytona 116500LN Key Features:

  • Case Diameter: 40mm
  • Materials: Stainless Steel
  • Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, 12-Hour Chronograph
  • Dial: White or Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers
  • Bezel: Fixed, Black Cerachrom, Tachymeter Scale
  • Movement: Caliber 4130
  • Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

The stainless steel Rolex Daytona ref. 116500LN has consistently been one of the most desirable luxury watches in the world since it was first announced at Baselworld 2016. Characterized by its three sub-dials, screw-down chronograph pushers, and black Cerachrom bezel, the reference 116500LN has been perpetually sold out at retailers with multi-year waitlists present at all locations. Fitted with either a black or white dial that complements its state-of-the-art ceramic bezel, this latest version of the Daytona makes the perfect watch for any occasion from the boardroom to the racetrack and everywhere in between.

Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLNR

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Batman GMT-Master II

GMT-Master II 126710BLNR Key Features:

  • Case Diameter: 40mm
  • Materials: Stainless Steel
  • Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, GMT-Functionality
  • Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers
  • Bezel: Bidirectional, Black and Blue Cerachrom, 24-Hour Scale
  • Movement: Caliber 3285
  • Strap/Bracelet: Jubilee Bracelet

The stainless steel Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLNR with black and blue “Batman” bezel insert was the hottest new release of 2019 and is still sold-out at retailers worldwide. Powered by the new-generation Cal. 3285 movement and fitted with Rolex’s iconic Jubilee bracelet, the new reference 126710BLNR brings the fan-favorite black/blue color profile to the latest generation of the GMT-Master II. Capable of simultaneously displaying three time zones and water-resistant up to 100 meters, the Rolex Batman GMT watch collection is the ultimate luxury travel watch and an absolute must-have for any serious Rolex collector.

Rolex Explorer ref. 214270

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Explorer

Explorer 214270 Key Features:

  • Case Diameter: 39mm
  • Materials: Stainless Steel
  • Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds
  • Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers
  • Bezel: Fixed, Stainless Steel, Smooth Style
  • Movement: Caliber 3132
  • Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

The Explorer is Rolex’s original sports watch collection, and the Rolex Explorer 214270 watch represents the latest edition of this industry classic. Crafted entirely from Rolex’s patented Oystersteel, (904L stainless steel) this latest version of the Explorer benefits from an increased case size of 39mm and a completely redesigned bracelet and clasp. Capable of displaying nothing more than the time of day, the Rolex Explorer embodies rugged minimalism, and its timeless versatile styling pairs equally well with both formal and casual attire. Classic in design, the Rolex Explorer is a watch that can transition effortlessly between activities without looking out of place or skipping a beat.

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Diamond Watch

Rolex Watches For Her

Rolex has manufactured watches specifically for women since the earliest days of the company, and the brand offers an incredible selection of women’s watches that are perfect to give that special someone in your life this Valentine’s Day.

Rolex Yacht-Master ref. 168623

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Yacht-Master

Yacht-Master 168623 Key Features:

  • Case Diameter: 35mm
  • Materials: Stainless Steel & 18k Yellow Gold
  • Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display
  • Dial: Multiple Options Available
  • Bezel: Bidirectional, 18k Yellow Gold, 60-Minute Scale
  • Movement: Caliber 2235
  • Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

The Yacht-Master is Rolex’s original luxury-oriented sports watch line, perfectly blending premium materials and a contemporary sporty aesthetic. Unlike most Rolex sports watches reviewed, the Yacht-Master is offered with a range of different case sizes, making it the perfect option for those who like the look of Rolex sports watches, but who want something more compact and manageable on the wrist. The reference 168623 is the discontinued 35mm version of the Rolex Yacht-Master constructed from stainless steel and solid 18k yellow gold. Equal parts luxurious and sporty, the Yacht-Master ref. 168623 can be worn with everything from a little black dress to workout clothes, and it features 100 meters of water resistance so that you never need to take it off.

Rolex Datejust ref. 179175

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Lady-Datejust

Datejust 179175 Key Features:

  • Case Diameter: 26mm
  • Materials: 18k Everose Gold
  • Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display
  • Dial: Multiple Options Available
  • Bezel: Fixed, 18k Everose Gold, Fluted Style
  • Movement: Caliber 2235
  • Strap/Bracelet: Oyster, Jubilee, or President Bracelet

Constructed entirely out of 18k Everose gold and known as the ‘Lady President’ among collectors, the reference 179175 is Rolex’s most luxurious expression of the classic Lady-Datejust. Featuring a flattering yet versatile 26mm case diameter and Rolex’s iconic President bracelet, the Rolex Datejust 179175 watch is unapologetically luxurious and an instantly recognizable status symbol, embodying superlative craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Despite its premium construction and elegant profile, the Lady President still offers users 100 meters of water resistance, making it perfectly suited to be a watch that can be worn all day, every day.

Rolex Air-King ref. 114234

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Air-King

Air-King 114234 Key Features:

  • Case Diameter: 34mm
  • Materials: Stainless Steel & 18k White Gold
  • Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds
  • Dial: Multiple Options Available
  • Bezel: Fixed, 18k White Gold, Fluted Style
  • Movement: Caliber 3130
  • Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

Although the Rolex Air-King was originally intended to be a men’s watch, its highly versatile 34mm case size has made it a popular choice for both men and women alike. Although the Air-King is most frequently found in stainless steel, this reference 114234 is fitted with a solid 18k white gold fluted bezel and a diamond-set dial, making it a luxurious take on the classic Rolex design. Fitted with a solid-link Oyster bracelet with a secure fold-over clasp, the Rolex Air-King 114234 collection is an ideal everyday watch that sacrifices nothing in regard to premium materials or refined styling.

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide His and her Watches

His & Her Rolex Watches

Similar to matching wedding bands, there’s something inherently romantic about complementary his and her watches. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to buy yourself a new Rolex to match the one you’ll gift to your significant other – that’s a win-win in our books.

With several variations of each Rolex model, his and her Rolex watches are relatively easy to find and offer a surprising variety of styles. Whether you’re looking for a pair of Yacht-Master sports watches or two different sizes in matching metal finishes, there is bound to be a his and hers Rolex set that will suit your style as a couple.

Rolex Datejust (ref. 126334 & ref. 179174)

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide His and Her Datejust Watches

For a classic pair of his and her watches, the Rolex Datejust is about as timeless and versatile as you can get. Available with an impossibly wide selection of different case sizes, materials, dials, bezels, and bracelets, there are virtually endless options of his and her pairings and the classic two-tone stainless steel and yellow gold is quintessential Rolex. However, our picks for 2023 are two White Rolesor models that combine durable stainless steel and solid 18k white gold, for a modern take on a classic with an understated yet luxurious monochromatic finish.

The reference 126334 is the latest version of the larger 41mm Datejust, combining Rolex’s new-generation Cal. 3235 movement with a timeless aesthetic that has remained largely unchanged for the better part of a century. Elegant, functional, and capable of being paired with any attire without ever looking out of place, this is about as classic Rolex as you can get. The Rolex Datejust 41 adheres to the same classic proportions as the classic 36mm model, but offers a larger case diameter for a modern fit and appearance.

Paired with it is the reference 171974, which is a modern version of Rolex’s classic 26mm Lady-Datejust fitted with the collection’s iconic fluted bezel and 5-link Jubilee bracelet. While the 26mm size has now been discontinued, it remains extremely popular among a wide variety of buyers and offers all the hallmark traits of a Rolex in a size that can be worn with other bracelets and jewelry without overpowering the wrist. Both watches offer users 100 meters of water resistance and chronometer-certified movements, making them ideal luxury watches for everyday wear and use.

Rolex Yacht-Master (ref. 16628 & ref. 69628)

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide His and Her Yacht-Master Watches

For the ultimate pair of his and her luxury sports watches, the Rolex Yacht-Master collection is the perfect option. As the only Rolex sports watch collection that is offered in multiple sizes, the Yacht-Master is ideally suited for his and her watch pairings, and the vast range of materials that are available gives couples plenty of options to suit both their style and budget.

The most premium versions of the Rolex Yacht-Master are those that are crafted entirely out of 18k gold and fitted with matching solid gold bezels and Oyster bracelets. The reference 16628 is the standard full-size men’s model with a case diameter of 40mm, while the reference 69628 is the Lady Yacht-Master, which has a reduced case diameter of 29mm and retains all of the same features and functionality. Both Yacht-Master watches are entirely crafted from yellow gold and offer Rolex’s iconic and instantly-recognizable sports watch aesthetic.

While both of these models are now discontinued, they remain extremely popular among buyers, representing some of the boldest Yacht-Master models ever produced, thanks in large part to their bright 18k yellow gold cases and striking white dials. Despite their solid gold construction, both models offer 100 meters of water resistance, making them highly-capable luxury sports watches that sit at the crossroads of functionality and exclusivity.

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Datejust

Rolex Collections We Love

When it comes to watches that epitomize the sentiment of Valentine’s Day, there is possibly no better option than Rolex. From rugged and refined tool-watches to gem-set jewelry timepieces, Rolex manufactures a watch for every lifestyle and every wrist – and each one is built to last a lifetime. We listed our top picks for Valentine’s Day above, but that doesn’t mean that those are the only swoon-worthy models. To help get your search started, take a closer look at some of the most popular Rolex collections that are sure to make you fall head over heels.

Rolex Datejust

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Datejust

The Datejust is the quintessential Rolex watch. Since 1945, countless world-leaders and celebrities have worn the Rolex Datejust, and it is this model that the brand gives to the recipients of its various philanthropic awards. Additionally, for many individuals, the Datejust was the Rolex that was worn by their parents and the model is considered a timeless icon all around the world.

  • Ref. 16233 is the classic, stainless steel and yellow gold version of the iconic Datejust that sports a 36mm case, which works perfectly on both male and female wrists of almost any size. If the two-tone look is not to your aesthetic preferences, the ref. 16234 is the stainless steel and white gold version that offers identical functionality in a more subtle and subdued package. Additionally, due to the wide variety of dial and bracelet options available for these two great watches, they can be found with appearances that range from glitzy and luxurious to sporty and understated.
  • Ref. 126300 – For a modern take on a classic, this model is the most recent version of Rolex’s 41mm all-stainless steel Datejust that is fitted with a sleek smooth bezel. With solid center-links, more refined lugs, and the new-generation Caliber 3235 movement, this version of the Rolex Datejust offers quite a bit more wrist-presence than the classic 36mm model, while still adhering to the overall design of the brand’s iconic collection.
  • Ref 68278 – still within the Datejust collection is the entirely yellow gold, ref. 68278 mid-size Datejust on a President bracelet. At 31mm in diameter, this watch is noticeably smaller than the standard 36mm case size, yet significantly larger than the 26mm and 28mm “Lady President” models, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day gift for those looking to get their significant others a matching watch to go with their classic Day-Date President.

Rolex Date

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Date

Discover the differences between the Datejust and the Rolex Date.

If 36mm is too large and 31mm seems a bit too small, then the 34mm Rolex Date should be just right. Identical in functionality to both the larger and smaller Datejust models, the Rolex Date is perfect for your loved one who always seems to be caught in-between sizes.

  • Ref. 15037 is a fantastic vintage option within the Rolex’s Date collection. Craft entirely from 14k yellow gold and fitted with an acrylic crystal, this watch checks all of the boxes for Rolex’s signature design traits, but offers a subtly more vintage overall look and feel than more modern Rolex Date references.
  • Ref. 115234 – If vintage is not your thing, then this reference is a thoroughly modern, stainless steel and 18k white gold take on the classic 34mm Rolex Date design. Like other watches in Rolex’s current catalog, this timepiece has slightly thicker lugs and solid center-links for its bracelet, giving it noticeably more presence on the wrist than older models.

Rolex Pearlmaster

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Pearlmaster

Learn more about the Rolex Pearlmaster.

If the Datejust sounds perfect, but you want to go all out and get the love of your life the most luxurious and opulent interpretation of it that Rolex has to offer, then the Pearlmaster is the watch to give that very special someone. Exclusively craft from precious metals and set with some of the most perfect diamonds that Rolex has to offer, the Pearlmaster collection is where horology meets jewelry, creating some of the most exclusive timepieces in the Rolex’s catalog.

  • Ref. 80318 – larger than the traditional Lady-Datejust, the 29mm ref. 80318 Pearlmaster is the entirely 18k yellow gold version, fitted with a bezel that is set with 12 brilliant diamonds. The slightly larger and more curved case is complemented by its unique Pearlmaster bracelet – a seldom-seen bracelet style that is reserved exclusively for Rolex’s most luxurious gem-set watches.
  • Ref. 81318 – Now, if the Pearlmaster seems perfect but 29mm is just a little bit too small, then the 34mm ref. 81318 should be ideal. Identical to its smaller counterpart in every way – from its solid 18k yellow gold construction to its Pearlmaster bracelet and diamond-set bezel, this is very much the same watch, just in a slightly larger (but still just as refined) package. 

Rolex Yacht-Master

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Yacht-Master

On the more modern and sporty side of the Rolex catalog, we have the Yacht-Master collection, which blends luxury and sports-forward styling into a contemporary and highly attractive package. Similar in its overall design language to many of Rolex’s other sports watches, the Rolex Yacht-Master collection is a more luxury-oriented interpretation, which is perfect for your loved one who may love the way that your Submariner or GMT-Master looks, but may not need the full extent of its tool-watch capabilities.

Ref. 268655 – While the Yacht-Master is available in a number of different sizes and metal configurations, this reference would be our pick for Valentine’s Day this year. Craft from 18k Everose pink gold, and fitted with a black ceramic bezel and a black rubber strap, this 37mm Yacht-Master is a slightly smaller version of the full-size 40mm model. And since it is made from Rolex’s proprietary Everose gold, this watch’s warm pink tone will last forever – just like the love that you share! (you can thank us later if you end up using that line when you give this watch). 

Rolex Explorer

Rolex Valentines Day Buying Guide Explorer

Get the Ultimate Buying Guide on the Rolex Explorer.

If you wanted to get that special someone in your life a watch that they could wear – in every possible situation, ’till death do them part – a Rolex Explorer model watch would certainly not be a bad option. And on the days when they don’t wear it, the watch’s highly versatile styling means that it will look just as good on your wrist, too. There is absolutely no problem in sharing. After all, that’s how relationships work right? The Explorer is Rolex’s original line of sports watches and offers a no-nonsense, utilitarian aesthetic, which still somehow manages to remain refined and classically beautiful. Exclusively crafted from stainless steel and available with a black dial, the Rolex Explorer is a tried and true classic that looks at home (and amazing) on quite literally every wrist that wears it.

Ref. 114270 — The current model Explorer has seen a size increase; however this reference is the traditional 36mm version that still benefits from modern enhancements such as applied hour markers and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. If you think 36mm might be a little too small, opt for the more modern ref. 214270 with its 39mm case and solid-link Oyster bracelet. Additionally, with its iconic 3, 6, 9, ‘Explorer-style’ dial, this is a watch that is going to look just as good several decades from now as it does today.

Paul Altieri
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