Rolex… It is recognized among many as the premier luxury watchmaker in the world.
It has always been a watch that many strive to get as it displays style, success, and quality.
When it is time to buy your first Rolex watch, it can be an exciting but overwhelming time. Since it is quite the investment for a watch, you typically want to get the perfect one for your wrist. With the different materials, sizes, models, colors, and more. You no doubt have plenty of options but what should you choose?
Here are some things to consider that may help you decide which Rolex watch is best for you.
What Is Your Budget?
This is always the first question you should ask yourself when making any watch purchase. It is important to be realistic with what you can afford and not to overspend. A Rolex is a watch that can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $75,000+. Typically, I would never recommend compromising when buying your first Rolex. You never want to settle on a watch of this caliber because the price is right. Going this way will almost guarantee regret down the line. Instead, be realistic and see if your budget can afford the watch you absolutely love. If you can’t afford it yet, don’t sweat it, that watch isn’t going anywhere.
What Watch Size Is Right For You?
The next thing you need to consider is the size of the watch. What looks good online may not always look good on your wrist. Rolex watches come in a variety of sizes from 28mm all the way up to 44mm. I would recommend finding a local jeweler that carries a few different Rolex models and trying them on to see what looks best on your wrist. Anything 35mm or under is typically worn by women. 36mm is the classic men’s size but many guys today are choosing the bigger 40mm+ sizes.
Choosing The Right Rolex Model
First, let me say that I am not going to go over every single Rolex model that you can buy. That would be a long, complex, and most likely boring list to read. Instead, I will go over the most popular models of each Rolex watch and describe what that model is suitable for, whether it’s for sport, business, or both.
Rolex Submariner
This would be my personal recommendation for your first Rolex watch. It is one of, if not the most, iconic watches ever made. It was first introduced in 1953 and has been a fan favorite ever since. The design of the watch has remained relatively unchanged over the years with only small tweaks here and there. What makes the Submariner so great is its versatility. It can be dressed up or down and was originally made to be the perfect divers watch. Thanks to its Oyster case, the most recent models are now waterproof up to 1,000 feet. You can find a Submariner in the price range from $8,950 to $37,950. The size of a Rolex submariner is typically 40mm but the new 2021 models are 41mm.
Tip: The Rolex submariner is also a great investment watch, because of its popularity and historical significance in the watch community. This model typically holds its value well or even increases in value over time.
Rolex Daytona
The Daytona was first introduced in 1963 and was designed to be the perfect racing chronograph. It gets its name from the famous Daytona International Speedway in Florida, USA. What makes this watch so special is that it can accurately measure average speeds up to 400km per hour.
The Rolex Daytona is strongly associated with the world of high-performance motorsport. It has also been worn by Hollywood star Paul Newman, a professional racer himself, for 15 years while keeping his Rolex Cosmograph Daytona on his wrist every day. His personal timepiece drew $17.8 million at auction in 2017.
The Rolex Daytona prices range from $24,950 to $169,950 and come in the size of 40mm.
Rolex Datejust
The Rolex Datejust is a timeless classic. It was first introduced in 1945 and was the first to feature an automatic date change magnified by a small bubble over the date. The design of this watch has remained relatively unchanged over the years with only small tweaks here and there. What makes the Datejust so great is its seminal role in timepiece history. This is a watch you would want to wear in the office as it has been seen on many businessmen and politicians throughout history.
The price range for the Datejust is typically between $3,250 all the way up to $46,950. The sizes of this watch vary from 28mm, 31mm, 34mm, 36mm, and 41mm.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual
The Oyster Perpetual is one of Rolex’s more affordable watches. It was first introduced in 1926 and is still being made today. What makes this watch so special is its history. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is based on the Rolex Oyster, the first waterproof watch ever made. It is a classic design with the sole purpose to tell the time. The perpetual motion mechanism, designed by Rolex in 1931, provides the watch with a constant source of energy, without the need for winding. Its timeless design sets it apart as a true classic.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual sells between $3,950 and $21,950. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual also comes in five sizes 28mm, 31mm, 34mm, 36mm, and 41mm.n
Rolex Yacht-Master & Rolex Yacht-Master II
The Rolex Yacht-Master was first introduced in 1992 and is a newer model from the brand. What sets this watch apart is its sporty design and its connection to the world of sailing. The Yacht-Master was designed as a professional tool watch for sailors. It features a programmable countdown, allowing for the perfect timing of a race. The design is completed by a racing yacht winch motif in the bezel, as well as pushers that gesture toward yachting winches.
The price of the Rolex Yacht-Master ranges from $6,950 to $43,950. The sizes of this watch come in 29mm, 35mm, 37mm, 40mm, and 44mm.
What Material Should You Choose for Your Rolex Watch?
Hopefully, you have decided on a model, now it is time to choose whether you go with gold, platinum, or steel.
Gold: Gold is the classic choice when it comes to Rolex watches. It has been used by the brand since its inception and is seen as a sign of luxury and success. Gold Rolex watches are typically more expensive than their steel counterparts.
Platinum: Platinum is a less common choice for Rolex watches but is seen as a more luxury metal choice. Since it is 95% gold, it is prone to scratch and dent more easily, keep this in mind depending on if your watch is for daily use or not.
Steel: Steel is the most common choice for Rolex watches. It is seen as a more practical choice and is less likely to scratch or dent. Steel Rolex watches are typically cheaper than gold or platinum models.
Where Should I Buy My Rolex Watch?
Now that you have decided on a model and material, it is time to purchase your Rolex watch. But from where?
The best place to buy a Rolex watch is an authorized Rolex dealer. These are the only places that sell new Rolex watches with the full factory warranty. Buying from an authorized dealer will also ensure that you are getting the best possible service and an authentic watch.
You can also buy a watch from an official retail store. Typically these stores do not have a lot of stock and have a waiting list of multiple years for popular watch models like the submariner.
Buying from platforms like eBay is typically safe but make sure you are buying from a reputable seller with great feedback and do your due diligence before making a purchase.
Alternate Options?
If you want a high-end luxury watch but don’t have the funds for a Rolex or would rather save money, there are alternatives. You may already know that James Bond now wears Omega instead of Rolex. For around half the price, you can purchase an Omega sports watch that has comparable features to a Rolex.
If you’d rather stick with the Rolex aesthetic, you may purchase a Tudor timepiece instead, as Rolex owns the Tudor brand, they sell watches at a lower price level than Rolex.
Summary
There is a lot to consider when purchasing your first Rolex watch. What model, what material, and the best size are all important factors. Once you have decided on those three things and have found a reputable place to buy your watch. You will be well on your way to owning your very own Rolex watch. We hope you enjoy your new timepiece for many years to come.