Category: Rolex

In the watch world, expensive and Rolex are two words that belong together. They are not synonymous as plenty of other expensive watches can make even a Rolex seem affordable, but every Rolex is expensive. Before the watch market boom, there were some examples that could be had relatively affordably, like a vintage Air-King, but even then, Rolex has always been an aspirational brand.

 Like most things in life, there are varying levels of madness. Not every Rolex is the cost of a luxury vehicle, but some certainly are. I would consider my own comfort level as just touching the entry point to the Rolex world. I have dabbled slightly but have always been on the more reasonable (although my wife would disagree) spectrum. One of the fun things about this hobby is that we don’t always have to act with reason. 

Sure, my financial situation may dictate that I don’t get to dip my feet into the world of uber luxury, but that can’t stop a guy from dreaming and writing about it. In this article, we are throwing reason and affordability out of the window and diving right into the most expensive Rolex watches you can buy!

Why are Rolex Watches so Expensive?

There are few questions that will divide the watch community quite like why Rolex watches are so expensive. From one perspective, they are decent watches hyped up by their own over-inflated history and hype marketing. From the other perspective, they are the pinnacle of precision watchmaking, known for their impeccable attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. 

The answer likely falls somewhere in the middle of these 2 extremes. Combine that with some economics 101, and the picture becomes pretty clear. Rolex watches are so expensive because they create a quality product and market it well, and customers will pay the asking price or even over the asking price. They’re not doing anything significantly different from other watch brands, they just happen to do it all incredibly well.

Rolex Watches with Highest Retail Price

In the world of Rolex, there are few terms that are as meaningless as retail price. That being said, we need a place to start, and the retail price seems like as good as any. Keep in mind that even if you are a crypto investor or the CEO of a tech start-up, you probably won’t be able to simply walk into an AD and hand them your money to walk out with one of these watches. This is Rolex we’re talking about after all, nothing is ever that easy!

Rolex Daytona Ice Platinum 

Reference 126506 MSRP $77,800

The Rolex Daytona hardly needs an introduction. The once-overlooked chronograph in the Rolex collection has recovered nicely from its NASA rejection roots to become the hardest to get watch in the world. 

The stainless steel variants of this timepiece are great watches that earn their owner instant clout in any watch circle, but this Ice Platinum example is a whole other level of flex. The 40mm case dimension is consistent with the steel variant, as is the overall design and Cerachrom bezel insert. The Platinum case and bracelet material, as well as the ice blue and brown color scheme, are where this watch differentiates itself cosmetically. 

The 4131 caliber movement receives a slight cosmetic upgrade with a new gold rotor and more refined finishing, while the 72-hour power reserve and +2/-2 accuracy remain. In many ways, this watch is not different from the more affordable stainless-steel variant, but much like the platinum case, this one carries some weight.

Rolex Day-Date 40 Platinum

Reference 228236 $67,800

You would be hard-pressed to find a watch that is synonymous with power as the Rolex Day-Date. Accompanying the wrist of presidents and high level business executives alike, the Rolex Day-Date has become one of the most aspirational watches in the entire Rolex lineup. Unlike the Daytona, there are no stainless-steel variants for us mere mortals. 

The MSRP of this watch is simply based on the type and amount of case material used. In the case of Day-Date, the highest MSRP has been given to the larger 40mm case in platinum. This watch is available in several dial variations that feature a day and date indicator and are powered by the caliber 3255 in-house movement. 

The signature look of the Day-Date complication has been imitated by many brands, but there is no doubt that when you wear the 40mm Rolex Day-Date in platinum, you are wearing the real McCoy.

Rolex Daytona Platinum “Le Mans”

Reference 126529LN MSRP $51,400-Discontinued

There are few watches that have truly surprised me over the last 5 years quite like the Rolex Daytona “Le Mans”. For one, it was completely unexpected and secondly, it was a not-so-subtle nod to the past. Rolex is a brand known for constantly looking forward when it comes to design, and this “Le Mans” limited edition took heavy inspiration from the Paul Newman Daytonas of the 1960s and 1970s (more on them later). 

This version carries over a lot of the design language and mechanics from the Ice Daytona mentioned earlier, but the vibe is completely different. The black Cerchrom bezel with a red highlight at 100, a nod to the 100th anniversary of Le Mans, and reverse panda dial configuration give a perfect vintage aesthetic. Although recently discontinued, this watch was never really available for everyday people, and the 6x second hand prices reflect this.

Rolex Sky-Dweller Everose Oyster

Reference 336935 MSRP $54,000

The Rolex Sky-Dweller is considered by many to be the most complicated watch that Rolex currently makes. The annual calendar and 24 hour disc help to provide some complicated watchmaking on a blueprint not all that different from the Rolex Datejust. While the fluted bezel of the Datejust is simply a design element of the watch, Rolex utilizes this bezel to help control the Ring Command system, a unique bezel-turning system that allows you to interface with your watch without using the crown. 

Although available in stainless steel, the 42mm Sky-Dweller reaches its full potential in precious metal. The Everose example on the jubilee bracelet gives an equally complicated aesthetic to the watchmaking within thanks to the caliber 9002. While the Sky-Dweller may be the newest family of watches on this list, the use of complication is a welcomed return to form some of their vintage masterpieces.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Yellow Gold

Reference 226658 MSRP $30,300

The Rolex Yacht-Master is a watch that many people struggle to place. It’s not a more capable Submariner, that honor goes to the Sea-Dweller and Deep Sea line. It’s not a dress watch like the Sky-Dweller or Day-Date. This watch is somewhere in between. The Rolex Yacht Master is powered by the robust Caliber 3255 movement, features a larger 42mm case, and comes paired with a rubber strap. 

All of these features help to give this watch a sportier aesthetic, while the Gold case and detailed construction of the Oysterflex rubber strap help to differentiate this watch into a more luxurious offering. Despite the possible identity crisis and comparably lower MSRP, the Rolex Yacht-Master is a true contender for any watch enthusiast’s Peacock watch.

What’s the Most Expensive Rolex Ever Sold?

As mentioned earlier, the MSRP of a Rolex watch is generally just the beginning. While these watches all carry an MSRP that most of us will never dream of attaining, we have barely scratched the surface of what is possible in the Rolex world. So what is the most expensive Rolex watch ever sold? That honor goes to a heavily used Rolex Daytona, reference 6239, in stainless steel. 

The watch had the famous Paul Newman dial layout and sold for a mere $17,752,500! This watch was no ordinary Paul Newman dial Daytona, as this, of course, was the actual Paul Newman Daytona. This auction reached its meteoric height in the story associated with the watch. Previously thought to have been lost forever, this watch surfaced in 2017, caught the watch community by storm, and shed some light on this fun little hobby for the rest of the world to see. 

That was the first time I read about a watch in a mainstream publication, but it was far from the last. I credit this auction for giving this hobby the credibility it needed to expand beyond the forums and into the real world.

Closing Thoughts

Well, it’s safe to say Rolex can get pretty expensive! Whether you are looking at MSRP, the Gray Market, or trying your luck at a once in a lifetime high profile auction, these little toys on our wrists can break the bank! The good news for us enthusiasts is that there are several options for how to enjoy this hobby. You don’t need to buy a Rolex to be a watch enthusiast, but if it is what you have your heart set on, it’s possible. 

Find yourself a side hustle and start saving every spare dollar you can. Look at me, I only need to write 131 more watch articles and I’ll be on my way! I am just hoping my name comes up on the waitlist before I run out of things to talk about. Happy watch hunting!

The Rolex Datejust and Explorer take the lion’s share of the new, entry-level, and affordable Rolex market, and if you are looking for an “affordable” (yes, please notice the tinge of sarcasm in my voice, hence the quotations) Rolex, then you simply can’t go wrong with either of those models. 

I’ve spent a significant amount of time with both; they are absolutely bullet-proof and timeless designs, but they aren’t the only Rolex watches to consider if affordability is one of your deciding factors. So, to all my kings and queens out there—adjust your crowns, and let’s take a ride together, exploring the new and pre-owned Rolex watch market.

Are There Any Affordable Rolex Watches?

Affordability is a very personal word. For some, a $200,000 watch from a high-end horology house is affordable, while for others, a quartz watch from Macy’s for $79 is at the ceiling of what they’d consider affordable. It’s subjective, folks. That said, I’ve compiled a list of the most affordable new watches from Rolex. 

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is often the first Rolex many people experience, and for good reason. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and approachability, offering a taste of Rolex’s esteemed craftsmanship without overwhelming your budget. It also helps that the Oyster Perpetual comes in a variety of stylish colors, with green being one of my favorites! 

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is offered in 41mm and 36mm variations for men, with smaller 34mm and 28mm options available for women. This watch is crafted with a stainless steel case and a COSC-certified automatic movement, making it both robust and precise. 

With a starting price of around $5,550 for the 28mm version and reaching up to $6,400 for the 41mm, the Oyster Perpetual is a great value proposition, especially when considering that these watches really don’t lose their value.

Rolex Explorer

The Explorer is my favorite Rolex—period. I love the mountains and the outdoors, and something about a robust three-hander without complications just gets me going. The Rolex Explorer’s claim to fame came in 1953 when Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay wore Rolex Explorers during their historic ascent of Everest. This iconic moment cemented the watch’s reputation as a reliable companion for those who push the boundaries of exploration.

With its straightforward design and dependable build, the Explorer continues to honor that legacy, offering a blend of ruggedness and elegance that appeals to those who appreciate both adventure and heritage. Today, the standard Explorer—which is all I’m covering here, sorry two-tone and Explorer II fans—is available in 36mm and 40mm, fitting the vast majority of wrists out there, both male and female. The 36mm can be had for $7,250, and the 40mm retails for $7,700.

Rolex Air King 

Ah, yes—the Rolex Air King. Considered by some to be the ugly duckling of Rolex’s line, I myself have always been stricken by the asymmetry of the dial and numerals. The Air King is a great watch for those who want something different or for pilots who need “big ole” numbers to look at. The black dial, with its oversized numerals, is easily legible and gives the Air King a distinctive look that sets it apart from the crowd. 

Like all Rolex watches, the Air King is COSC-certified and guaranteed to deliver an accurate and robust wearing experience. At 40mm, the Air King is sized appropriately for its purpose; it offers a bold, commanding presence while remaining practical for those who need to rely on their watch in demanding environments, whether that be in the air, on land, or in the sea. Priced at $7,450, the Air King is one of Rolex’s most affordable models.

Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust is a watch that effortlessly balances elegance with practicality. It’s one of those pieces that feels both classic and contemporary, making it a versatile choice for almost any occasion. Many consider it to be the quintessential Rolex. For decades, the Datejust has effortlessly navigated from the boardroom, where it complements a fine suit and slips seamlessly under a cuff, to weekend outings, whether you’re enjoying a cocktail or catching a movie, pairing just as effortlessly with jeans and a t-shirt. 

Don’t quote me on this, but the Datejust is considered to be Rolex’s selling watch of all time, and it is offered in a huge plethora of colors, case materials, and sizes. For this “affordable” article, we are going to focus on stainless steel models in 36mm and 41mm configurations—though Rolex does make a 31mm for women. The 36mm retails for $7,450 and $9,050 with the fluted, white gold bezel. The 41mm retails for $8,050 and $10,600 with the fluted, white gold bezel.

What About Pre-Owned Rolex Watches?

Because of their high demand, you’ll often see pre-owned Rolexes going for more than their original retail price—though the market has cooled off as of late. But hey, if you’re into vintage pieces, you might just snag a great deal. There are some classic Rolex models out there that are surprisingly affordable, especially if you’re willing to dig a bit. It’s all about finding the right seller and being patient. There are vintage Datejust watches for sale in the $3,000 to $5,000 price range. Just make sure you verify the authenticity and have a professional open the watch up to ensure it is in good working order!

Conclusion

What if I told you since 1970, inflation has risen by about 700%; you might shrug and say, “well yeah—duh. Things get more expensive.” So, five dollars in 1970 would be around thirty-five dollars today. Now what if I told you that in 1970, a brand new Rolex Submariner cost, depending on the model, around $300? Yeah, I know. Let’s get a time machine and stockpile them! Adjusted for inflation, that same Rolex should cost around $2000.

And yet, a new Submariner cost north of $10,000, with a date. Rolex-flation, since 1970, has eclipsed regular inflation significantly; the actual number stands at over 4000%. An entry-level model, such as the four previously mentioned, is a great way to get ahead of the ever-increasing cost of owning a Rolex. 

Another great way is to browse the tantalizing bargains on the pre-owned market, with special consideration given to vintage Rolex watches. As with anything Rolex, buyer beware: there are many fakes out in the wild, with some claiming that the vast majority of “Rolex” watches sold today are actually fakes. That’s why it is so important to always “buy the seller.” 

Here at Exquisite Timepieces, all of our pre-owned watches go through rigorous testing and authentication, to ensure that your buying experience is as worry-free as possible. We have a wonderful collection of pre-owned Rolex watches for sale on our website. Whatever you choose, owning a piece of the crown is a great way to enjoy the wonders of horology!

Rolex is an instantly recognizable name that most non-watch fans have heard of. Its name conjures up imagery of class, luxury, and status. With such a powerful name backing the brand, it may surprise many that Rolex is actually considered a non-profit organization. 

Yes, Rolex is in the same category as other famous organizations like The American Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders. Rolex as a whole is a series of smaller companies that together create the Rolex brand. With the initial surprise out of the way, we’ll explain just how Rolex, the powerhouse watch brand, is a non-profit organization. 

What Constitutes a Non-Profit Company?

One interesting thing to note about Rolex is that they are a Swiss company, so the exact definition of a non-profit organization may change depending on location. However, in general, a non-profit organization is classified as such because it is focused on improving the general public and advances specific social causes. 

Thanks to their status, they are exempt from many different types of taxes and receive certain benefits from the government. They are not focused on purely generating profits and work toward achieving a mission. For example, The American Red Cross lists its mission as “to prevent and relieve suffering with every action.” 

For a primarily aid-based mission, it may be simple to justify its mission to improve the general public, but trying to fit this mold into a luxury watch company is much more challenging.

Is Rolex Actually Non-Profit?

Being a non-profit organization doesn’t mean that it generates no income. After all, it would seem improbable that a hotly demanded item like Rolex doesn’t bring in money to the company. In reality, Rolex is a brand managed by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, a non-profit organization named after the founder of Rolex. 

The foundation maintains Rolex and other brands like Tudor under its watchful eyes. As such, Rolex is a non-profit and maintains strong ties to other charities within its parent company. They are able to operate as their own entity, and every action they take seems to influence how the watch industry operates.  

History of the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation

The Hans Wilsdorf Foundation was born from Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf’s desire to continue the Rolex brand and to commemorate his wife, Florence Frances May Wilsdorf-Crotty. With no children to call his own, Wilsdorf wanted to create a lasting legacy that helped the world. What started as this earnest desire to cement his legacy has turned into a sprawling company affecting the watch world and the world itself. 

Before his death, he sold 100% of his ownership stake in Rolex to the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation. This secured the brand’s future by placing it under the watch of his organization and giving it non-profit status. Rolex’s profits are used to improve the company itself and to promote social causes. Exactly how much of that money goes into charity isn’t known, but it is easy to see that it is substantial. 

Does Rolex Make Money? 

Rolex is a non-profit organization that answers only to itself, but it definitely makes money. The brand remains as popular as ever, and new releases dazzle the watch world. Supply never seems to meet demand, so Rolex invests heavily in itself to increase the brand’s prestige and its ability to create stunning timepieces.

As a non-profit organization that answers only to itself, concrete financial data can be hard to come by. Hans Wilsdorf himself never revealed the secret inner workings of his company and only gave a brief insight into it in a single interview shortly before his death in 1960. Future Rolex leadership seems to follow in their founder’s footsteps and is highly private about the way Rolex operates.

This secrecy is a potential source of scorn for Rolex, as it is impossible to truly follow where the money goes. However, Rolex definitely creates many watches a year and enjoys high demand for their products. The exact profit that they make is not known, but rough estimates can be given. It isn’t required to release this information because they answer only to their parent company, the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation.

Rolex will also never be found in any public stock exchanges because it is privately held. As a non-profit, they also enjoy various government benefits and exemptions related to tax and insurance. After operating costs, salaries, and other business expenses, any leftover money flows back into the company to use for charity and marketing. 

Notable Charities by Rolex 

Rolex and the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation have made their presence known in a variety of charitable causes. Their efforts have had a positive impact on numerous individuals around the world. They contribute to the environment and the arts and sciences.

Rolex supports the Our World-Underwater Scholarship Society, which provides scholarships to young people who want to pursue a career in the marine world. They also provide scientific research grants through the Rolex Explorers Club Grant. Rolex is involved in many explorations of environments like Mount Everest, the deep sea, and the Amazon through its collaboration with organizations like National Geographic and the Royal Geographical Society.

Rolex contributes extensively to Geneva, such as building the Hans Wilsdorf bridge, funding art colleges, and preserving traditional architecture. The Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative ensures that artistic expression lives on in the next generation by linking famous masters of the art with teaching institutions around the world.

Conclusion

Rolex is well-known for its iconic designs, and how the company is able to continue making these beloved pieces due to its unique status as a company. Being a non-profit organization allows Rolex to function much differently than its peers. The purchase of an amazing timepiece from Rolex is, in a way, supporting Rolex’s mission to have a positive impact on society.

Rolex supports numerous charitable causes around the world, which may come as a surprise to many people. This duality is what makes Rolex such a fascinating brand and one that will continue to sustain itself for many more generations to come.

The year was 1969. It was the height of the Cold War between the USA and the USSR. The Vietnam War was at its peak. The murders of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy (both assassinated the year before) were sentenced. John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged a bed-in for peace, where they recorded the song “Give Peace a Chance.” The California Zodiac Killer was making headlines. Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon. 

Amid all those major world events, a lesser-known “bombshell” was about to shake the world of watchmaking. On Christmas Day of 1969, Seiko, a relatively unknown brand outside of Japan, released the world’s first quartz wristwatch and forever changed the watch industry, creating what some watch historians would later call “The Quartz Crisis.”

While many legendary timepiece manufacturers would go belly-up, Rolex survived the crisis, answering Seiko with the Oysterquartz, their own overbuilt, quality quartz movement. Today, those quartz Rolex watches can be purchased for a relative steal compared to the typical automatic Rolex. This article serves as your collector’s guide into the world of the Oysterquartz. 

Quartz vs. Mechanical Movements

A quartz movement is powered by a battery and uses a quartz crystal to keep accurate time. The quartz crystal oscillates at a precise frequency, and this oscillation is used to power the movement of the watch hands. Quartz watches are known for their high level of precision and reliability and require very little maintenance.

On the other hand, a mechanical movement is powered by a winding spring and uses gears and levers to keep accurate time. Mechanical watches are known for their intricate design and craftsmanship and require regular maintenance, such as oiling, to keep them running smoothly.

Quartz watches are generally more accurate than mechanical watches, as they are not affected by temperature changes, shocks, and other environmental factors that can affect the performance of a mechanical movement.

However, many watch enthusiasts consider quartz watches to be inferior to mechanical watches, as they lack the craftsmanship and artistry of a mechanical movement. Quartz watches are also considered less exclusive and more widely available to the public.

One way to quickly tell if a watch is powered by a mechanical movement is the sweep of the second hand, in contrast to the tick, tick, tick of the quartz movement.

Understanding the Quartz Crisis

The railroads were among the major forces in the mid-1800s, driving the need for timekeeping accuracy. After some tragic rail accidents due to pocket watch inaccuracies, the movements were refined, and official time zones were adopted in the US and eventually globally. 

This would be one of the drives behind the birth of a new era of highly accurate watches, and Switzerland would become the de facto capital of watchmaking. That is, until a challenger from the East, Seiko, would introduce the world’s first quartz wristwatch. 

Watchmaking is as much an art as it is a science in Switzerland. Their top luxury brands, like Rolex, are known for their handmade movements crafted by expert artisans. With the advent of quartz wristwatches in the late 60s and 70s, all that seemed in question and sparked a panic, which “sunk” many notable luxury brands and put Omega into bankruptcy. 

Many wondered if Japan would become the future of watchmaking, displacing Switzerland, as quartz movements were far easier to mass-produce, significantly less expensive to manufacture, and more accurate.

Rolex managed to weather the crisis by developing its own in-house quartz movement, the Oysterquartz, while maintaining its focus and commitment to mechanical movements. This approach proved successful, as quartz eventually became synonymous with mass-produced, inexpensive watches that didn’t last generations like the fine, handcrafted timepieces Rolex was known for. 

Rolex Oysterquartz History

In the 1970s, Rolex decided to develop its own quartz movement in response to the growing popularity of quartz watches, which were becoming increasingly accurate and reliable. Rolex teamed up with a group of Swiss watchmakers and engineers to develop the movement named the Beta 21.

The Beta 21 was based on a Japanese quartz movement called the Seiko Astron and was one of the most accurate and reliable quartz movements of its time. Rolex was the first brand to put the Beta 21 in production, followed by other brands such as Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Omega.

The Rolex Oysterquartz was the first watch model to feature the Beta 21 quartz movement, and it was first introduced in 1977. The watch was available in two models, the Datejust and the Day-Date. It combined the precision and reliability of the quartz movement with the classic design and durability of the Rolex Oyster line. 

The Oysterquartz quickly became a highly desirable watch among collectors and enthusiasts. It was in production until 2001 when Rolex decided to discontinue the line and focus on its mechanical timepieces. 

Buying a Pre-Owned Timepiece

When buying a pre-owned luxury watch, such as a Rolex, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure that you get a high-quality, authentic timepiece.

1.  Research: Before making a purchase, research the different models and styles of Rolex watches. Familiarize yourself with the features and characteristics of the watch you are interested in and its retail price. This will help you identify potential red flags when looking at pre-owned watches.
2. Buy from a reputable seller: Look for a reputable seller, such as a certified jeweler or a licensed pre-owned watch dealer. These sellers will have a reputation to uphold and will be more likely to offer a high-quality, authentic watch.
3. Check the documentation: Make sure that the watch comes with its original documentation, such as the warranty card and instruction manual. These documents must be present to ensure that the timepiece is authentic
4.  Inspect the watch: Carefully inspect the watch for any signs of wear and tear, such as scratches on the case or a worn-out bracelet. Also, look for any inconsistencies in the engravings or markings on the watch, as these can also indicate that the watch is not authentic.
5. Have it professionally assessed: Have the watch inspected by a professional before making your final decision. A professional watchmaker can confirm the watch’s authenticity and check for any potential issues.
6. Consider the price: Keep in mind that pre-owned Rolex watches may be priced higher than their retail value. Compare the price of the timepiece you are considering to its retail price and consider the watch’s condition before making a decision.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are getting a high-quality, authentic pre-owned Rolex watch.

Rolex Oysterquartz Models

The Rolex Oysterquartz line was initially offered in the Datejust and the Day-Date models. Both models featured the iconic Rolex oyster case, which is waterproof and highly resistant to corrosion.   

1. Rolex Quartz Beta-21 (ref. 5100)

Only 2,000 of these watches were made. It’s theorized that 1,000 were made in white gold and 1,000 in yellow gold. That makes these watches quite rare. The case size is 39mm and fits nicely on the wrist. It offers a magnified date at 3 o’clock. 

This was the first Rolex to feature a synthetic sapphire crystal, a hacking movement (meaning the movement can be stopped to synchronize with other watches), and a quick set date. Some have criticized the style of this timepiece, but to others, it’s a unique stand-out that will surely be a conversation piece. 

Price: $20,472-$30,836 (Source: www.watchcharts.com). 

2. Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust (ref. 17000)

The Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust is a luxury watch that was first introduced by the Swiss watchmaker in 1977.  The watch features a stainless-steel case with a diameter of 36mm and is water-resistant to 100m. 

The case is paired with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown, which helps to protect the movement from water and dust. The dial features a white color with gold hour markers and a date display at 3 o’clock. The watch is available with a stainless-steel bracelet or a leather strap.

One of the most notable features of the Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust is its classic and timeless design. The watch is a perfect example of Rolex’s commitment to precision and reliability while maintaining its classic and timeless design. 

The Oysterquartz Datejust is also highly collectible, thanks to its historical significance as one of the first Swiss-made quartz movements and Rolex’s first and only quartz watch, which was in production for over two decades.

Price: $4,775-$7,119 (Source: www.watchcharts.com). 

3. Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date (ref. 17013)

The Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date was first introduced in 1977, along with the aforementioned Datejust. The watch features a 36mm diameter case, available in yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold, and it’s water resistant to 100m.

The case is paired with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown. The dial features a white color with gold hour markers, and the watch features a day of the week display at 12 o’clock and a date display at 3 o’clock.

The timepiece is available with a matching president bracelet, which was designed specifically for the Day-Date. The Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date is a highly desirable watch that offers the best of both worlds: the precision and reliability of a quartz movement and the classic design and durability of a Rolex oyster case.

The watch is also highly collectible, given the limited supply and no indication that Rolex will be producing more quartz watches at this time.

Price: $3,921-$5,749 (Source: www.watchcharts.com).

4. Rolex Lady-Datejust (ref. 69173)

The Rolex Lady-Datejust Quartz was first introduced in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is a smaller version of the Datejust model, designed specifically for women.  

The watch features a 26mm diameter case, available in yellow gold and stainless steel, and it’s water resistant to 100m. The case is paired with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown, which helps to protect the movement from water and dust. 

The dial features a white color with gold hour markers and a date display at 3 o’clock. The watch is available with a matching jubilee bracelet, which was designed specifically for the Lady-Datejust.

Price: $3,279-$5,183 (Source: www.watchcharts.com).

5. Rolex Cellini Quartz (ref. 6623)

The Rolex Cellini Quartz is a dress watch that was first introduced in the late 1990s.  The watch features a 34mm diameter case, available in yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold, and it’s water resistant to 30m. 

The case is paired with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown. The dial features a white color with gold hour markers and a date display at 3 o’clock. The watch is available with a matching leather strap or a matching gold bracelet.

The Rolex Cellini Quartz is a classic dress watch that is designed with simplicity and elegance in mind. The watch features a timeless design that is perfect for formal occasions. The watch’s dimensions and technical specifications make it an ideal fit for a man’s or a woman’s wrist, making it easy to wear and comfortable. 

Price: $4,000 – 18c white gold version (Source: www.exquisitetimepieces.com).

Conclusion

There’s something luxurious about a mechanical movement, both in the way it’s made, requiring more human involvement than the assembly line, automated manufacturing of the quartz, and in the way the movement functions and looks. However, there are undeniable benefits to a quartz movement. 

The Rolex Oysterquartz line offers the best of both worlds, the iconic design and craftsmanship of Rolex married with the accuracy of a quartz movement. Most horologists and collectors favor the beauty and intricacy of the handmade, mechanical movements and expect that in a luxury timepiece. 

However, the Oysterquartz created a unique hybrid and became a cult favorite among some collectors. The Oysterquartz also provides an opportunity to get a Rolex at a lower price point.