Founded in 1905, Rolex has attracted luxury watch connoisseurs from around the globe who are interested in attaining a watch that's symbolic of class, prestige, and innovation. Shop the world's most highly sought-after pre-owned and used Rolex watches. Bob's Watches offers the largest and most trusted collection of Rolex watches for sale with 100% certified authenticity. Popular models:
There is no other luxury watch brand in the world that can make a statement like Rolex does. Rolex watches combine excellent function with a style that will surely make any wearer stand out.
If you're thinking of buying a watch from the brand, you might want to check out our selection of pre-owned Rolex. These used Rolex watches provide the same quality that the luxury watch manufacturer is known for at an affordable price.
Rolex watches are iconic and are well-known all around the world. But how did the brand become the best watch manufacturer today? Let's learn more about below.
The Rolex company began its rise to fame in England when the German watchmaker Hans Wilsdorf together with his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, set out to form the brand in 1905. That's why if you've seen one of the rare pocket watches that were made early on, you can find "W&D" hallmarks at the back of their cases.
The name "Rolex" was registered in 1908 and became an official luxury watch manufacturer in 1915. However, the company had to relocate to Switzerland when World War I broke out. This was because luxury imports had to be subjected to increased tax levies and the founders didn’t think it was cost-effective at that time to stay in England.
In the following years, Rolex started to increase its brand name by being seen as a leader in the wristwatch evolution. The company even became known for its watch innovations and being a top producer of "firsts" in the industry.
It wasn't long before the company was awarded a chronometer certification, which is the first recognition ever given to a wristwatch. By 1920, Rolex had its official name released as Montres Rolex S.A. but was eventually shortened to what we know today as Rolex S.A.
Rolex became known as the luxury watchmaker for another first in the watch industry. The Rolex Oyster was considered to be the first waterproof and dust-proof watch in 1926. The Rolex timepiece even offered a hermetically-sealed case that protected the fragile parts within.
Such an innovation skyrocketed into popularity especially as Mercedes Gleitz, a British professional swimmer, had one worn around her neck as she swam across the English Channel. This cemented the legacy of the Rolex Oyster and subsequent models eventually had waterproofing capacity (water resistant) that could reach a depth of at least 100 meters.
But the Rolex Oyster wasn't only limited to swimmers. Soon, mountain climbers started wearing this luxury watch as well. Many climbers found that the watch continued to operate flawlessly even while scaling the tall peaks of the Himalayas.
By 1953, the Rolex Explorer was born. Many consider it a worthy successor to the legacy that the Oyster has made given that it provides even better durability and waterproofing capacities to its users.
The following year, Rolex introduced another watch known as the GMT Master. This dual-time watch was developed to fulfill the requirements of flight crews. In 1955, the Rolex Reference 6234 Chronograph was introduced, which grew in popularity almost as soon as it was launched. This product spent 10 years in production and although it's not as popular as other Rolex watches, it's still considered a rarity by many.
Another innovation came about with Rolex in 1956. The Day-Date was launched as a marvel of watch technology with a dial that allowed wearers to see the day and date change automatically. Today, there are only a few features that have been changed based on the original design. The most relevant of these changes are the new scratch-proof sapphire crystal, internal advancements, and the number system.
In 1963, another innovation by way of the Rolex Space-Dweller was introduced to the public. This product matched the Explorer ref. 1016 by having a dial that had the name "Space-Dweller" instead of "Explorer." Although the design isn't as popular as the other models, a pre-owned Rolex Space-Dweller can come at a hefty price tag when auctioned.
Today, people who wear a Rolex watch are wearing more than just a product from a popular brand; they are donning in place a piece of history. From popular model numbers such as the Rolex 16613, Rolex 69173, and Rolex 16520, to iconic references such as the Rolex 16610 there is a watch for just about any style. Thanks to Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-in-law, Rolex watches have become classic and iconic pieces no matter the model discussed.
Each Rolex that comes out of the factory is a marvel in itself, with every piece containing complex components that engage with other parts precisely. These timepieces also do more than just provide their wearers with an accurate way to tell the time.
Rolex is known as one of the best watch manufacturers today in terms of watch movements. A key contributor to this is the ability of its watches to perform self-winding movements that have been recognized by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
Although some variations exist between Rolex watch models, most of their watch movements are produced by the following components:
All Rolex watches are classical timepieces yet there are those models that simply surpass others in terms of popularity. The collections from this luxury watch brand are some of the most iconic products made especially because of the unique technology and innovations they offer.
Although watch collectors will have their own list of favorite designs, the following are the ten most well-known Rolexes today:
In addition to these popular models, there are a number of different top selling references that are known by nicknames within the industry such as the following:
At Bob's Watches, we offer many of the Rolex watches mentioned above. Browse our selection to learn more.
As you can see, Rolex offers its customers a combination of the best materials, classic design elements, and top-notch manufacturing practices. That's why Rolex watches are highly sought-after products by many, especially because of their holding value in the pre-owned watch market.
Since they are extremely popular, especially with collectors, there are specific vintage Rolex models that have been terrific investments when buying a Rolex.
These are the models you want to consider:
When buying new or used Rolex watches, you'll want to know whether the product you'll be getting is actually the real deal. There are many expert counterfeiters that can produce timepieces that can easily trick many buyers.
That's why before deciding to make a purchase, it’s important to know how to spot a fake Rolex. Here are some aspects to look into:
Although these are great indicators to check for Rolex authenticity, many counterfeiters can still produce fake designs that are difficult to distinguish from the originals. To make sure you get a real watch, you should take out the case back and check the product’s movement for authenticity.
At Bob's Watches, we provide only the best selection of watches available in the market today. We also offer unique luxury watches that are difficult to find elsewhere.
You can find pre-owned Rolex watches in our inventory at different prices. There are designs that can cost just less than $2,000 while others can go up as high as $20,000 or more.
Some of the most popular choices we offer include the Rolex Submariner, Rolex GMT-Master II, Rolex President, Rolex Daytona, Rolex Oyster Perpetual, and Rolex Milgauss.
But we aren't limited to just selling Rolex watches, we can buy them as well. When you browse our selection of timepieces, you'll be presented with the option to sell and receive a quote from us.
Simply supply us with your basic information and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Whether you plan to buy a used Rolex watch or sell one, Bob's Watches has you covered.
Men's and Women's Rolex Watches
Men’s and Women's Rolex watches are offered in a wide selection of models that can satisfy almost any budget or style. Just click on a reference to see availability and pricing. Styles for women are available in gold, platinum, steel and two tone.
Rolex Yacht-Master: First offered in stainless steel with a platinum trim, Rolex patented the term Rolesium to describe this design 65 years before the model was actually released. With a sporty oyster band and oversized bezel, the Yachtmaster is intended for aquatic activity, but is suitable for casual wear. Also available in 18 carat yellow gold and two tone, the Rolex Yacht-master is powerful in its design and offers a touch of class and distinction to the Gentleman whose wrist it adorns. Bob’s Watches is delighted to offer the Rolex Yacht-Master for men, women, and in midsize.
The Men's SS Rolex Sea Dweller This reference is the quintessential sportsman's watch. It balances useful features such as the triplock winding crown and helium escape valve with the characteristic luxury of Rolex. With a deep-black dial and black unidirectional rotating bezel, the watch face is subtle but striking. As a sporty version of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust, the Sea Dweller has an original band and the patented Rolex movements. The perfect choice for everyday. Other popular dial colors: silver, blue, & mother of pearl.
Ready to get started? Check out our selection of pre-owned Rolex designs today for more details.
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