Words by James Jansons, from Chrono Hunter – the smart way to buy or sell a luxury watch.
Whether ardent collector or would-be enthusiast, Rolex is considered by many as the Rolls-Royce of luxury watches. Since 1905, the enduring brand Hans Wilsdorf created has been at the peak of horological achievement.
Owning a Rolex makes a statement beyond telling time. These coveted status symbols instantly command respect as they adorn the wrists of high society – representing the definition of premium taste, success, and the finer things for the world’s elite clientele.
The epitome of accomplishment, we believe, when you buy a Rolex, you are not simply acquiring a commodity; rather you are becoming part of a legacy while making a long term investment. In this article, Chrono Hunter, a leading online platform where one can buy or sell a new or pre-owned luxury watch, deep dives into the most desirable Rolex watches you can all aspire to own…one day.
After all, as Wilsdorf himself so eloquently proclaimed: “Rolex must continuously strive to think and act differently from the rest”.
Rolex Daytona
One of the most coveted models on the planet, The Rolex Daytona was not always as coveted or valuable as it is today. Once an overlooked 1950s chronograph, this racing-bred timepiece has since swerved on to the global stage.
Unveiled in 1963, Paul Newman’s record-shattering $17.8 million Daytona which sold at auction cemented its pole position as the pinnacle of high-end timepieces. To this day, the Daytona remains a premium icon of style and sophistication in the world of luxury watches.
Our hot picks
The ultra rare Rolex Daytona Rainbow 116595RBOW as sported by Ed Sheeran, is a highly sought-after timepiece that demands between £350,000 to £700,000 on the secondary market. Now discontinued, illustrious stainless steel Daytona’s like the white dial 116500LN and black dial 116500LN are just as popular. With an original RRP of £12,700, Chrono Hunter can source pre-owned versions for between £20-£25,000 (as of December 2023).
Rolex Submariner
The blueprint for all dive watches to emulate, the legendary Rolex Submariner splashed onto the scene in 1953 as the first 100m waterproof watch. While modern upgrades like the unidirectional bezel and automatic movement keep it cutting-edge, the sleek stainless steel Submariner retains its vintage aesthetic, adored by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Plus it’s impressive 300 metres of water resistance.
The 1967 Rolex Submariner “Comex” Reference 6205, originally made for a professional diving company, fetched a record-shattering $2.1 million in 2022. Its rare helium escape valve sets it apart from other Submariners.
Our hot pick
Rolex Submariner Bluesy Ref. 126613LB retails at £13,150, and brings the wow factor with its cobalt blue sunburst dial and matching Cerachrom bezel. Nicknamed “Bluesy” for its vibrant azure tone, It can fetch upwards of £14,000 on the secondary market
Rolex GMT-Master II
The dawn of international transcontinental travel signalled a new age of inspirational timepieces. Originally created for PAN-AM pilots during the 1950s, the rugged, accurate GMT-Master II watch tracks time zones with its signature coloured bezels. Known as The “Pepsi” and “Batman,” reflecting both red/blue and black/blue bezels, these watches have become cult favourites amongst horological connoisseurs.
The GMT-Master’s exceptional demand and limited production have propelled its value to extraordinary heights. The definition of Rolex’s expertise, with Superlative Chronometer certification and 100-metre water resistance, appeals to many office execs and collectors.
Our hot picks
The Rolex GMT-Master II “Root Beer ” Ref:126711CHNR. This supremely wearable Rolex punched above its £13,600 retail, trading currently around £16,000. Alternatively, channel your inner Bruce Wayne with the “Batman” Rolex GMT-Master II. The 2023 model retails currently at £9,000, with demand around £15,000 on the secondary market.
Rolex Day-Date
The Rolex Day-Date is often referred to as the “President’s Watch”, due to its connections with US presidents like Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump. Throw in wearers like Frank Sinatra or Clint Eastwood, and this beauty cements its place in pop culture as the ultimate status symbol for the rich and famous.
Introduced in 1956 as the world’s first wristwatch to display both the date and day of the week, the Rolex Day-Date has since become an emblem of refined elegance and unparalleled craftsmanship. Encased in the robust Oyster case, this highly coveted timepiece is built to withstand the rigours of daily wear, while its meticulously crafted movement ensures exceptional precision and reliability.
Our hot picks
Rolex Day-Date 40 White Gold with Emoji Dial (Ref. 228345) also known as the “Jigsaw Dial” or “Puzzle Dial” is a unique timepiece that has garnered significant attention since its release. With current retail prices upwards of £56,000. It is estimated the watch could demand a lot more on the secondary market at the time of writing.
Rolex Sky-Dweller
Debuting in 2012, the Sky-Dweller seamlessly blends ultimate sophistication and sublime practicality. This complex dual time zone watch wowed collectors and its annual calendar that automatically adjusts for leap years.
Flexed on Roger Federer’s wrist during the 2023 Wimbledon Championships, the steel and gold Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934 is the stuff of timekeeping dreams. With masterful elegance exemplifying Rolex’s prowess, the Sky-Dweller has fast become a celebrity-endorsed horological hit with those keen horophiles looking to buy a Rolex.
Our hot picks
Rolex Sky Dweller Ref. 336934. Available in a stunning mint green, blue or black dial, it ensures optimal precision from the boardroom to the ballroom. Priced at £13,150 on Oyster Bracelet (£13,300 on Jubilee) at retail, some variations command prices surpassing £20,000 on the secondary market.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual
A symbol of timeless accuracy and uber elegance, the Oyster Perpetual has remained an enduring icon since 1948. This sleek yet unfussy stainless steel or gold watch crystallises Rolex’s masterful watchmaking prowess into the echelons of horological mastery.
When NFL legend Tom Brady slipped on the new 36mm Puzzle Dial model, reference 128239-0056, he elevated the Oyster Perpetual to cult status. Mind you, if you’re not an A-lister, forget about getting your mitts on one.
It embodies excellence – transitioning effortlessly from boardroom to beachside bar with understated sophistication. The classic Oyster Perpetual has been adorned by many high-rollers including Warren Buffet and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, ensuring its MVP status.
Our hot picks
Brady’s elusive Ref. 228396TBR in platinum with unique Arabic numerals and diamond set bezel, or the 36mm Rolex Oyster Perpetual reference. 126000. The perfect everyday driver, it manages to tick all the boxes for Rolex purists and enthusiasts. Priced at £5,100, it has a secondary market value of between £5,000-£11,000 depending on your choice of dial (as of December 2023).
The bottom line
Unfortunately, the clock has stopped…for now. However, the models mentioned are only the tip of the timekeeping iceberg when examining the most illustrious Rolex watches. From the enduring Datejust to discontinued models like the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref 116508, the Genevan brand is not just a piece of luxury refinery.
It’s an extension of style, high standing and a pleasure seeker. Choose the right model and they will not only hold value but appreciate over a longer period. If you are someone who craves to adorn their wrist with the ultimate symbol in prestige and wealth, investing in one of these models can bring both countless benefits, overwhelming personal gratification and a few head turns along the way.
Is it time to buy a Rolex or sell a Rolex? Why not contact Chrono Hunter here today. Enjoy multiple offers from our carefully curated selection of the finest retailers across all luxury watch brands via our distinctive platform or dedicated app. Benefit from peerless service and a quick turnaround in the most secure environment. Whether purchase or sale, we are changing the face of the luxury watch industry. Unlock tailored offers, and buy or sell your next legendary Rolex the smart way.
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