Rolex is one of the world’s most highly regarded watch brands and is celebrated for producing timepieces that are reliable and impeccably made. Its incredible reputation earns the company international recognition and is listed as one of the the top luxury brand. While it’s easy to assume that the brand is out of reach for most budgets, there are options on the secondary market and at retail that are relatively affordable by Rolex standards. Most Rolex watches will also hold their value if properly maintained and may even appreciate over time, making them a smart investment no matter what their price tag may be. Below we will briefly cover the different Rolex price ranges that are currently available on the market, at your local Authorized Dealer or a second hand dealer like Bob’s Watches.
Beginner or Entry-Level Watches
The average novice collector falls within the entry-level price range. Models with a simple movement and non-precious metal finishes often fall into this category and are highly sought-after for their affordable price point and versatile style.
Oyster Perpetual
Labeled by Rolex as the quintessential dress watch, the Oyster Perpetual offers a waterproof Oyster case, self-winding time-only movement, and a stainless steel finish.
Retail: $4,850 – $5,700
Pre-owned: $2,000 – $4,995
Stainless steel Oyster Perpetual Datejust
The Datejust also utilizes a waterproof case and self-winding movement. However, the movement is slightly more sophisticated with the addition of a date mechanism.
Retail: $6,600 – $7,450
Pre-owned: $3,495 – $7,295
Air-King
The first sports watch on our list is often confused as a dress reference. Its design is similar to that of the Oyster perpetual, with a waterproof case and time-only function.
Retail: $6,200
Pre-owned: $3,495 – $5,995
Mid-Level Watches
The mid-level range of Rolex watches includes more expensive metal finishes, such as steel and gold, and often features a slightly more sophisticated movement. The variety of watches increases significantly at this level, appealing to a broader range of collectors.
Two-Tone Oyster Perpetual Datejust
Rolex patented the terms “White Rolesor” and “Yellow Rolesor” to define their combinations of steel and white or yellow gold. Resilient while adding a hint of opulence, the two-tone Datejust won’t break the bank.
Retail: $9,450 – $13,050
Pre-owned: $5,000 – $12,995
Submariner Date
The modern Rolex Submariner is one of the most iconic timepieces in the Rolex catalog. The case is sophisticated, offering a depth rating of up to 300 meters as well as a unidirectional time-lapse bezel. While the Submariner is available in several metal finishes, this price range is based on stainless steel and two-tone finishes only.
Retail: $7,500 – $13,400
Pre-owned: $6,500 – $12,500
Top Level
Prices in the top level can range significantly from an average of $15k to $50k. The options available at this budget are seemingly endless and include some of the brand’s most complex movements and luxurious finishes.
Sky-Dweller
The Sky-Dweller came to market in 2012, bringing with it one of the most sophisticated movements ever produced by Rolex via the 40-jewel calibre 9001. Its stance on the wrist is impressive with a case that measures 42mm in diameters, larger than any other dress reference in the Rolex catalog.
Retail: $14,400 – $48,850
Pre-owned: $15,795 – $44,000
President Day-Date
The Day-Date is the Rolex model that is most often associated with luxury and high style. Since its debut, it has always been offered in only precious metal and has commanded a premium on the market, both new and used.
Retail: $22,150 – $57,600
Pre-owned: $9,495 – $37,000
In closing, there is a much broader range of prices than discussed above, with models such as the Yacht-Master and Oyster Date not even making our brief list. Thanks to a diverse catalog, the Rolex brand is available to almost anyone who wishes to get their hands on a coveted crown logo watch.
Final Thoughts
There are pros and cons to who you go to purchase your watch from. If you’re going to an authorized dealer, you’ll be shelling out cash and the value drops almost immediately. It’s the has the exact same pattern of buying a new car and driving it off the lot, but you do get an authentic watch 100% worry free.
If you’re conservative and always looking for the best deals, I’d recommend going to a dealer like Bob’s Watches who sells used Rolex. Since they are so reputable, authenticity isn’t a worry and you get to save your cash. That sounds like a win-win situation to me.
