100% Certified Authentic
Watch Review

Three Kings: Vintage Men’s Gold Watches

Paul Altieri

If there’s one type of timepiece that Rolex does best, it’s their men’s gold watches. Not only is the gold Rolex is a universal symbol of success and prestige, often times it’s as good as cash too! While there are plenty of gold models within Rolex’s catalog, here are some vintage beauties that currently have our attention.

Vintage Rolex Submariner ref. 1680

One of the finest men’s gold watches from Rolex can be found in their Submariner collection. And this particular golden Submariner ref. 1680 from 1972 is a special model indeed. In perfect contrast to the 18k yellow gold Oyster case and Oyster bracelet is the vibrant blue dial and bezel configuration. Additionally, the “nipple dial” features the distinctly shaped indexes that were used on gold Subs of that era. While the Submariner was originally built as a tool watch, this Rolex diver’s watch is more of the luxury watch variety thanks to its gold construction.

men's gold watches
The Submariner 1680 is a vintage golden watch.

A 45-year old Rolex that’s just as easy on the eyes today as it was during its heyday.

Vintage Rolex GMT-Master ref. 1675

Affectionately known as the Root Beer, this GMT-Master ref. 1675 is famous for being the watch Clint Eastwood wore in several of his movies. This particular vintage GMT-Master ref. 1675 from 1969 also has the “nipple dial”. But this time, the distinctive hour-markers sit on a brown dial that pairs superbly with the bronze bezel and yellow gold case and bracelet. Although the GMT-Master is a go-to Rolex for many celebs, it first came onto the scene has a way for Pan Am commercial pilots to keep track of two time zones simultaneously.

Men's Golden watches
This GMT-Master ref. 1675 is famous for being the watch Clint Eastwood wore in several of his movies.

Rolex has made some head-turning men’s gold watches throughout their history, and this is definitely one of them.

Vintage Rolex Datejust ref. 6605

Here’s an early Datejust model from 1956. This Datejust ref. 6605 sports a 36mm gold Oyster case and is presented on a yellow gold President’s bracelet. Furthermore, it also dons the iconic Rolex fluted bezel. On the champagne “pie-pan” dial there are gold faceted dagger indexes, in addition to Alpha center hands. Also on the dial is, of course, the date aperture at 3 o’clock for which the model is named after.

men's gold watches
A 1956 Datejust 6605 in a gold oyster case.

For any fan of vintage men’s gold watches, this Rolex Datejust is a classic with timeless appeal.

What do you think of the above men’s gold watches? Do you have a favorite gold Rolex model?

Paul Altieri
Homepage subscribe image

Bob's Watches Blog Updates

Sign up and be the first to read exclusive articles and the latest horological news.