Laila Keith
If you're looking to invest in a Rolex watch, you're probably looking for a combination of style and resale value. Rolex watches are considered among the most collectible, and the brand is one of the oldest watchmakers in the world. The value of some Rolex watches has increased significantly over time, and if you buy the right one, it can be a great investment.
The Rolex Submariner is probably the safest bet when it comes to buying Rolex watches for investment. It's sporty, robust, durable, and has a timeless design. The Rolex GMT-Master II is another great option, with its distinctive 24-hour hands and rotating bezel, allowing the wearer to read three different time zones simultaneously. The Rolex Daytona is another popular choice, offering a unique aesthetic thanks to its trio of sub-dials.
Other good options include the Rolex Yacht-Master, Rolex Explorer, and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual.
What You'll Learn
Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner is a classic luxury dive watch, first launched in 1953. It was the first divers' wristwatch to be waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet) and now has a depth rating of 300 metres (1,000 feet). Its design has been entirely dictated by the practical needs of divers, with features such as a unidirectional rotatable bezel, a luminescent display, large hands and hour markers. The Submariner's Oyster case provides optimal protection from water and dust, while the Triplock winding crown is fitted with a triple waterproofness system.
The Submariner is an iconic timepiece, renowned in the professional diving world and beyond. Its famous design and unparalleled craftsmanship have made it one of the most coveted watches globally. The Rolex Submariner is known for holding its value long-term, making it a popular choice for investors. However, it's important to remember that there are no guarantees when it comes to investments, and market volatility can affect the resale value.
The current retail price for a stainless steel Rolex Submariner ref. 126610 with a black dial is $10,250 USD, while a gold or two-tone Submariner can cost upwards of $40,000 USD. The price of a Rolex Submariner depends on various factors, including the model, materials used, market demand, and inventory.
If you're looking for a moderately priced Submariner, the ref. 126610LN is an excellent choice. This model costs around £12,000 on Chrono24, while the previous-generation Rolex Submariner ref. 116610LN is priced at approximately £11,000. However, it's important to be cautious when purchasing a Rolex Submariner 126610LN, as there are many counterfeits on the pre-owned watch market. Be sure to buy from a trusted dealer and obtain a certificate of authenticity.
The Rolex Submariner has earned several nicknames over the years, including "Sub," "Smurf" for the white gold model with a blue dial and bezel, and "Hulk" for the green bezel and dial stainless steel version. Other popular nicknames include "Kermit" for the green bezel and black dial stainless steel model, and "Bluey" for the two-tone model with a blue dial and bezel.
The Rolex Submariner is available in various colours, designs, sizes, and precious metals, making it a versatile and fashion-forward option for both casual and formal wear. Its dials are known for their legibility, with large luminous hour markers and hands that glow in dark environments. The Submariner is powered by different movements, including the caliber 3230 "No Date" time-only movement and the caliber 3235 time and date movement, both boasting a 70-hour power reserve.
The Rolex Submariner was initially produced with a 40mm case, but in 2020, Rolex updated the collection to feature a slightly larger 41mm case. While Rolex currently produces the Submariner in 41mm, the 40mm models remain popular alternatives on the secondary market. The Submariner's bezel is typically made from either aluminium or ceramic, and its bracelet is crafted from the same material as the case, ensuring durability and a reliable clasp.
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Rolex Daytona
The Rolex Daytona is one of the most famous luxury watches in the world. It was first launched in 1963 as a sports watch for the racetrack and has been worn by countless celebrities and athletes. The watch is closely associated with the iconic actor and racecar driver Paul Newman, who regularly wore one from the 1970s onwards. His own Rolex Daytona sold for $17.8 million at a 2017 auction, making it the most expensive Rolex ever sold.
The Rolex Daytona has seen upgrades over its 50+ years of production, including a change from a manual to an automatic movement in 1988, and a larger 40mm diameter. Today, it is one of the most desirable and sought-after watches on the planet, with a limited production of up to 40,000 watches per year and an ongoing waitlist.
The watch features a tachymeter scale, which can measure speed against time or distance, and is available in various metals, including steel, 14k gold, 18k gold, Rolesor (two-tone steel and gold), platinum, and Everose (Rolex's rose gold alloy). The dial colours include white, black, silver, champagne, blue, green, pink, yellow, ivory, meteorite, and diamond.
The price of a Rolex Daytona varies depending on the materials and features. The retail price for a standard steel and ceramic model is $15,100, but it is exceedingly difficult to acquire one at this price due to limited production and high demand. On the secondary market, steel Daytonas sell for about double the retail price, while two-tone and solid gold models sell closer to their MSRP.
For example, the 2023 Cosmograph Daytona 126508 Paul Newman Dial in 18k yellow gold has a market price of $114,000, while the 2023 Cosmograph Daytona 116500LN in stainless steel with a white "Panda" dial has a market price of $36,000.
The Rolex Daytona is a sound investment due to its limited production, high demand, and brand reputation for luxury and craftsmanship. It is a stylish, functional, and exclusive watch that has become a symbol of precision, elegance, and status.
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Rolex GMT-Master II
The Rolex GMT-Master II is a highly sought-after timepiece, especially for those who seek functionality and style in a luxury watch. Launched in 1982, the GMT-Master II is the ultimate cosmopolitan watch, allowing its wearer to track multiple time zones with its 24-hour hand and a 24-hour graduated rotatable bezel. This makes it ideal for pilots and frequent travellers. The watch's functionality, durability, and sleek design have made it one of the most popular Rolex watches for investment in 2022.
The GMT-Master II has a 40mm timepiece with a steel case, an automatic calibre, and a ceramic bezel with sapphire crystals. The Rolex GMT-Master II has unique rotating 24-hour advanced bezels that let the wearer read three different time zones simultaneously. Its huge dial and elegant design are widely sought after by potential buyers.
The first GMT-Master II featuring a ceramic bezel, the ref. 116710LN, has a unique green GMT hand, making it popular among collectors and wearers. It currently sells for around £12,000 to £17,000. Another popular reference is the 126710BLNR, also known as the 'Batman' watch. This watch is highly in-demand due to its limited release and typically has a long waiting list. As a result, there is a significant difference between its retail price and its current market value. At the beginning of 2020, the 126710BLNR was selling for approximately £12,000-13,000 on the secondary market, while by the end of 2021, the same model was commanding prices of around £15,000.
The rose gold Rolex GMT-Master II 126715CHNR, nicknamed the "Root Beer", is another model that holds its value well. The demand for rose gold watches has increased its resale price, and as its popularity continues to rise, so will its resale value.
The Rolex GMT-Master II is a rare and coveted watch due to its limited availability and high demand. Its value tends to increase over time, making it a good investment choice.
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Rolex Explorer
The Rolex Explorer is the brand's original collection of sports watches, first introduced in 1953 after the successful ascent of Everest. The name Explorer was added to the dial in 1953, but prototypes were field-tested by expeditions as early as 1952. The Explorer offers a wide range of choices and price points for collectors, from the very affordable 'pre-owned' 14270s produced until 2001 to the vintage options of the 1016 and earlier.
The Rolex Explorer 39mm 214270 is a good investment option. Previous versions of the watch measured 36mm, but this version, first released in 2010, features a case size of 39mm. Rolex reverted to the 36mm design in 2021, making the 214270 the only 39mm Explorer reference. Thanks to its rarity, the 214270 is the best reference in terms of both size and value. Prices currently start at roughly $8,500 and can go up to around $12,000–$13,000. These prices will probably increase over time, assuming no new, larger Explorer is introduced.
The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 226570, released in 2022, is another good investment option. It features a new movement and a number of small refinements, but it is largely the same watch as its predecessor, the Ref. 216570, which is now a strong value proposition compared to the current production model, which costs a few thousand dollars more on the open market. The Ref. 216570 can be purchased for between roughly $10,000 and $15,000, so buying this version may save you money. As the popularity of the Explorer II has increased, its prices are likely to rise further in the coming years.
The Rolex Explorer collection offers a range of price points and choices for collectors, from vintage options to more affordable pre-owned models. With its rich history and strong resale value, the Rolex Explorer is a sound investment option for buyers.
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Rolex Oyster Perpetual
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is one of the oldest names in the Rolex catalogue. While it has historically not been hyped up, 2020 marked a huge year for the watch, with updates to the collection stealing headlines from the brand-new Submariner. The 41mm version of the Oyster Perpetual, which replaced the previous largest model, is particularly popular. The vibrant dial versions of both the 41mm and 36mm versions are currently trading hands for anywhere between 50% to 150% above their brand-new retail prices on the open market.
The Oyster Perpetual is a timeless timepiece that has been crafted with precision and attention to detail. It features a stainless steel case and bracelet, ensuring a timeless look and durability for many years. The watch face is adorned with Roman numerals, adding an elegant touch to the design. The movement of the watch is powered by an automatic self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of approximately seventy hours. Additionally, the watch has been tested to withstand depths of up to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming or snorkelling activities. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a classic timepiece that will last them for years to come.
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Frequently asked questions
The Rolex Submariner is probably the safest bet when it comes to buying Rolex watches for investment. The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, Rolex GMT-Master, and Rolex Oyster Perpetual are also good options.
Rolex watches are considered among the most collectible watch brands. Forbes ranked the company 64th on its list of the world's most powerful brands worldwide for 2016. Rolex watches tend to increase in value or at least hold their value, even during times of recession.
The value of a Rolex watch is determined by supply and demand. Rolex watches that tend to increase the most in value are those that are now discontinued and have been made in limited numbers. Rare models, important models in Rolex's history, and the condition of the watch are also factors that affect the value of a Rolex watch.
Stainless steel Rolex watches tend to increase the most in value. While Rolex watches made of precious metals or featuring gemstones don't tend to hold value as well.
Yes, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona "John Mayer" Green Dial ref number 116508 is a limited-edition watch that can be a good investment. The Rolex Air-King Ref. 126900 is another limited-edition model that could be a good investment.
