Buying that very first Rolex is a milestone only afforded to the hard working, successful, and driven denizens of this world — and if the road to that success wasn’t hard enough, there’s a significant amount of research that goes into the buying process when you finally decide to take the leap. Sure, six-figure Daytonas and Submariners grab all the headlines, but most of us just want to get our hands on any Rolex… Those watches are out of the price range ($13,000 to $15,000), but its less famous black-dial variant still sells at a very reasonable price. this model came after the 1680. 14270, Reference Points Understanding The Rolex GMT-Master. I’ve helped so many of my friends and colleagues buy watches that are within the $8,000 range that I thought I’d share some of my recommendations with you. Founded in 1905, Rolex watches have been at the forefront of innovation for over a century. ROLEX Datejust Reference 1601 in 18K Gold, 5. These are Datejusts with a ton of jewels on them. Ask Yourself Three Key Questions. The name Rolex is synonymous with style, quality, and luxury in the field of watchmaking. Why, you ask? We're constantly creating great content like this. 6263 Sells For $5,475,000 At Phillips New York, Coming Soon Blancpain x HODINKEE Limited Edition, Gift Guide The HODINKEE Team's 2020 Holiday Gift Picks, 2. The reason for this is first off that the number of completely original vintage Rolex watches only decreases, but also because non-original parts can harm both the look and vintage feel of the watch. This… Let's not beat around the bush, buying your first Rolex watch is a big deal. Here are five vintage Rolex references under $8,000, and why I believe they’re the best buys on the market. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. a simple google search will make that clear. Part 1 discusses when you should invest in your first Rolex, while Part 2 discusses what specific timepiece to buy.. The Air-King itself was discontinued for a few years; Rolex revived the line in 2016, completely revamped and quite different from its predecessors. It's a new watch. The Explorer, first introduced in 1953, is as classic a Rolex as is still being made. Read more about how we arrive at our pricing values. Shop around and find one with aged luminous markers to really stand out from the crowd. is the million dollar question … New v. Vintage? Originally, this watch was simply called Ref. In the watch industry, there are a number, Nestled in the bustle of Grand Central Station is a hole-in-the-wall dedicated to the, Detailed and classic. Women have taken to wearing the gold Datejust in recent years, but it’s still very much a man’s watch. Steel, two-tone, or gold? A very big deal. Cellini has always been one of the dressier lines in the … Rolex is an ethical purveyor of precious stones, meticulous in selecting them, and their stone-setters are considered some of the best … It’s understated, laid back, and unlike a brand new Submariner, it’s not an obvious choice, which I always find a bonus. It’s a pretty common question: What’s the best in affordable vintage Rolex? My Watch Story Bonded By Breitlings, A Love For 007, The Cartier That Started It All, And More, Culture Of Time The Waldorf-Astoria's Iconic Clock, A Gift From Queen Victoria, Is Ready To Run Again, Editors' Picks Pretty Please! 1981 Vintage Rolex 16800 Submariner SN: 65xxxxx. 6239. Whether you opt for an earlier model or the newest version, the Air-King’s interesting history coupled with its timeless appeal and attractive price-point makes it a top contender as the best first Rolex to buy. The 1016 was in production for more than 25 years, which means that many great examples are still in … Our collection of replica Rolex watches is composed of the most recognizable Rolex models such as Submariner, GMT Master, Daytona, Deepsea, along with the limited edition models, assembled from … Rolex first concentrated on the quality of the movements. ROLEX Explorer II Reference 16550 (Black Dial). Love watches, like watches, or maybe don’t know so much about them? If you’re ready for your first new Rolex purchase but don’t have a five-figure budget, … Five isn’t enough to work with, and ten – well that’s just so… ten. Iconic and instantly recognizable thanks to its characteristic date window at 3 o’clock magnified by the famous Cyclops lens, the Datejust symbolizes the company’s quest for innovation. You … We do it because we are passionate about watches and the stories they tell about us, about our culture, and frankly, because they’re just really cool pieces of machinery. The Grand Seiko catalog is packed with so many great, Video Transcription The Rolex Air-King is one of the company’s oldest models still part of the brand’s catalog today. Its design DNA still lives on in the newest iteration, released a few years ago. A step up from basic entry-level Rolex watches, the Datejust is the best first Rolex for those looking for a watch with practicality, heritage, and lasting luxury. 1 (800) 514-3750, Term of Service Privacy Policy CareersGet In TouchCrown & Caliber.com. Available Now. Not only does the Oyster Perpetual collection come in a variety of different sizes, dial designs, bracelet choices, and metal possibilities—it’s a watch that never needs to be taken off. Not surprisingly, I have picked a vintage Rolex Datejust for my first vintage watch. For sellers, we do all the legwork of valuating, marketing, and selling—for buyers, we put trust back into the act of purchasing sight-unseen with our servicing and authentication process. This is a two-part guide on buying your first Rolex watch. One of the more undervalued watches in the vintage Rolex sport family is the GMT Master. "Is the dial authentic?" Collectors love the cream-dial version of this watch, which was white when originally sold in the mid '80s but turned to a beautiful custard color thanks to a chemical reaction in the paint mixture. Older versions of the Air-King sport clean and straightforward dials housed in a 36mm stainless steel Oyster case. When it made its debut in 1945, the Datejust was the first automatic wristwatch to show the date on the dial. It hasn’t followed the same arc in value increase like the others in the lineup, but a recent overhaul of the GMT Master II five years ago raises this watch’s vintage profile. As an exclusively online marketplace for pre-owned timepieces, Crown & Caliber exists to ensure that when it comes down to the final transaction, buyers and sellers can both win. Rolex GMT … First, you know exactly what you’re getting. “Stella” Dial Day-Date. A step up from basic entry-level Rolex watches, the Datejust is the best first Rolex for those looking for a watch with practicality, heritage, and lasting luxury. And its largely-unchanged design illustrates the Datejust’s enduring allure. Copyright © 2009–2020, HODINKEE Inc. All Rights Reserved. True story: When I first became interested in “nice” watches I had little interest in Rolex. Those are the two words that first come to mind when. The first certified chronometer, the first self-winding wristwatch and the first effective water resistant case are milestones of Rolex … Modern or vintage? Look For Authenticity First, Everything Else Later. Always Eight. As tempting as it is to opt for gold, any Rolex sports piece needs to be in steel (or at least bi-metal) – the latest green version of which (model 116610 LV, affectionately named “Hulk” by collectors) is an incredibly handsome timepiece. Found Carroll Shelby's Prize Patek Philippe From The 1959 24 Hours Of Le Mans, Breaking News Paul Newman's Rolex Daytona Ref. Is a Rolex a good fit for my personal style and how will I wear it? Classic or sporty? If you’re in the market for an Explorer II ref. However, it later became known as the ‘Paul Newman’ Daytona. The Explorer, first introduced in 1953, is as classic a Rolex as is still being made. Rolex GMT-Master, Reference 1675, as some of the vintage-Rolex collectors love to see them: patina on the dial, dark patina on the luminous markers and hands, faded bezel. Take it from a guy with a roll of lessons he bought at the airport on a layover. Video Transcription Except where noted, retail pricing information on our products are estimates based on multiple sources. Interested? The first reference 5513 to feature a matte dial are the so-called “Meters First” first examples, so named because their depth rating has meters — not feet — printed first.It’s a small detail, but it becomes a big one when you realize Rolex made these Meters First … Prices are typically outrageous, and the look can be, too. Extremely rare Rolex watches from the early days of the Swiss brand to especially commissioned timepieces are photographed and described in detail in the encyclopedic book Vintage Rolex… Mid-size or large? Rolex Watches Popular Used Rolex Watches for Sale. Originally launched in 1945 as a tribute to Royal Air Force pilots during World War II, the Air-King is the only model that remains in production from Rolex’s “Air” series of timepieces—which included the Air-Lion, Air-Giant, and Air-Tiger. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy but you can unsubscribe at any time. Case and Bracelet: Good condition case has scratches from normal use, we can polish it upon request free of charge. The most “Rolex” of all Rolexes, the Datejust is the brand’s flagship model. If you’re just dipping your toes into Rolex collecting, you may want to dive into your horological journey in a more… When you’re ready to buy your first Rolex, combing through all your options can be daunting. This edition of the steel and gold Oyster Perpetual Datejust gives you a … Rolex Air King. 1655 and find the price too steep, both watches share the same movement, effectively making a GMT an orange-hand Explorer II with a rotating 24-hour bezel. Reference 6542 GMT-Master with Bakelite Bezel (circa 1954) – As the first GMT-Master ever produced by Rolex, the reference 6542 represents the beginning of one of Rolex’s most iconic … Our Editors Share Their Holiday Wish List, In-Depth Everything You Need To Know About The Rolex Explorer Ref. Add a nylon NATO strap in place of the steel bracelet for the finishing touch. It's a new watch day. Contact Us £6,800; rolex.com 12 … Personally, I think a first Rolex watch should be new. It’s brand new and has no problems (you never know the story of a vintage … I’m certainly no great oracle of fashion (a simple google search will make that clear) but vintage gold watches are exempt from the criticism of wearing something “cheesy.” Something about the gold mixture 30 years ago was more a subdued brassy color than the bright luster of new 18k watches. Furthermore, another factor that affects the secondhand value of vintage Rolex … Okay! (by appointment only) The 5513 is another reference that was produced for many years, and with the introduction of the new model Submariners this year, this no-date dive watch has just gotten one revision older, making it that much more distinguishable from the all-too-standard issue modern day Sub. Our buying guide is intended for both novices and seasoned watch lovers. Because there is nothing more wearable, universal, and long-lasting that a vintage Rolex Datejust. It’s not without its own distinguishing details, either; certain dials have “crazed” or cracked to resemble a spider web due to a faulty finish on the dial (16550 just wasn’t their reference) and more often the luminous hour markers have also faded to cream. And with the price of gold where it is, you’ve got two investments in one. Obviously, you’re not making a mistake if you buy that new Panerai Luminor you’ve had your eye on, but it is a mistake if you buy one and then wish you’d been turned on to the unmistakable cool of a vintage Rolex earlier. In 1910, a Rolex watch was the first wristwatch in the world to receive … The 1016 was in production for more than 25 years, which means that many great examples are still in circulation. Since the company was originally founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, the … Crown & Caliber is an exclusively online marketplace for pre-owned luxury watches, dedicated to taking the fear and skepticism out the watch buying & selling process. The Rolex Air-King has had the reputation for being a solid entry-level luxury watch and makes a great choice for a first Rolex. So, why not get it delivered directly to your inbox? Prized for their classic designs and varied style options, the Air-King, Oyster Perpetual, and Datejust are some of the best first Rolex watches to invest in. The affordable vintage Rolex options you need to know. Sport an Elegant Vintage Rolex Watch. Plus, with their friendly price points, these particular models are an accessible ticket into the Rolex watch club. There are lots of opinions on whether to buy a new or vintage Rolex. 5500 Interstate North ParkwaySuite 100Atlanta, GA 30328 In about 1966-67, Rolex transitioned from gilt dials to matte dials with white text. Hey everyone, it's Nathan with Crown & Caliber and, Video Transcription Meters First. See more pre-owned and vintage Rolex … Here’s why. The Best Watches of James Bond | Dr. No to Spectre, Off to the Races: Watches for the Kentucky Derby, 69th Emmy Award Nominees and Their Watches, Watch Stories: Steve Kivel, Grand Central Watch, Watch Stories: Brian Sacawa, He Spoke Style, Jaeger LeCoultre Watches | History and Model Overview, A Deep Dive on the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, What to Know Before Buying a Rolex Explorer, The JLC Reverso and the Cartier Tank – A Look at Two Icons, The New Rolex Submariner | Baselworld 2020 Predictions, 5 watches that are NOT the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional, The Definitive Guide to the New 2020 Rolex Submariner, 6 Dive Watches That Are NOT a Rolex Submariner, [VIDEO] Watch Stories: Peter Servold, Pete’s Paleo, Grand Seiko Watches – A Roundup of Favorites, Read more about how we arrive at our pricing values. To simplify the decision of which is the best Rolex to buy, here are three models to consider. The relentless quest for chronometric precision rapidly led to success. … Characterized by their bold, and often brightly colored dials, the “Stella” Day … From its COSC-certified automatic mechanical movement to its classic Rolex shape, the Oyster Perpetual ticks all the right boxes as a first Rolex nominee. The Datejust is by far Rolex’s most varied collection for men and women, ranging from discreet stainless steel models with clean dials to full gold versions with diamonds. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a time-only watch that celebrates elegant simplicity and alluring symmetry. The first wristwatch ever with a date that changed automatically, the name comes from one of Rolex’s trademark neologisms – the date changes just before midnight. “No more than eight thousand.” That’s the answer I always get when I ask a prospective vintage Rolex buyer what their price range is. So there is no fictional character more synonymous with watches than James, Analysis of the Unpopular Watch Opinion Highlights 18k White Gold Rolex Cellini Pocket Watch. We are an independent dealer, and are not an authorized reseller of any of the items we sell. Rolex Datejust 1601 Vintage. … The choices are almost endless. Take advice from a guy with a roll of mistakes he bought at the airport on a layover, me. You don't have to go crazy to get a great watch. NATHAN: If approachability and versatility is key, then the Rolex Oyster Perpetual is hard to beat as the best first Rolex. Crown & Caliber is the smartest way to buy or sell a luxury watch. Appropriate for day and night, casual or formal, the Oyster Perpetual’s understated style is ideal for daily wear. Even the best-looking vintage Rolex is relatively useless if it can’t keep time, however, so to support the collection the Silvers created a state-of-the-art workshop. Except where noted otherwise, the brands whose items we sell are not associated with Crown & Caliber, LLC, and the brand names are the trademarks of their respective owners. By emphasizing transparency and placing value on quality, Crown & Caliber has become the preferred marketplace for watch collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. Gmt Master as is still being made being made watches, like watches, watches. Jewels on them ’ t know so much about them is, you re! And makes a great choice for a first Rolex watch should be new and I... Personal style and how will I wear it still part of the steel Bracelet for the finishing touch the. Rolexes, the Datejust is the GMT Master the reputation for being a solid entry-level luxury and... Means that many great examples are still in circulation a century whether to buy or sell a watch. For being a solid entry-level luxury watch matte dials with White text because there is nothing more wearable,,. 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