Are you looking for a great Rolex watch that is either a "bargain" or a must-have?

Then this guide is for you.

Rolex men's watches first appeared in London in 1905, and the brand name came to be in 1908.

Since then, this watch brand name has become synonymous with great-looking and useful luxury watches.

Ever since the Oyster—the first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch—appeared in 1926, Rolex has led the horology world with clever innovations, classic styling, and richly appointed timepieces.

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With its long history of style and innovation, a Rolex timepiece for men is a symbol of status, style, and confidence.

Each year they often make subtle, incremental improvements to its iconic designs. However, there are only a handful of assembled components that comprise any Rolex model.

Rolex makes sophisticated movements, produces five case alloys, and offers five kinds of bracelets, two types of clasps, several bezels, and dial varieties.

From these components, the company creates its entire line of iconic, luxury watches.

They have unique terminology for various aspects of their watches.

Oyster - the name given to the original waterproof and dustproof watch created by founder Hans Wilsdorf
Perpetual - the branding for the automatic watches
Cyclops - the magnifying lens that enlarges the date

The company has developed some of its excellent alloys and other materials for use in its watch cases.

Oystersteel - a corrosion-resistant, highly polished stainless-steel alloy
Everose Gold 18k - a rose gold alloy using copper and silver
Yellow Gold 18k - a proprietary gold alloy
White Gold 18k - a radiant white gold
Platinum 950 - a robust and shiny platinum alloy using ruthenium
Rolesor - combines Oystersteel and gold for two-tone styles
Cerchrom - a proprietary, scratch-proof, UV-resistant bezel ceramic used on sports watches
Chromalight - Rolex’s proprietary watch face lume

The Rolex timepieces use standardized movements for different models.

3255 - the newest movement, introduced by Rolex in 2015, and the basis for models going forward
3135 - launched in 1988 and little changed since, 3135 is the foundation of most recent Rolex movements, and introduced the midnight instant date change. It is also the basis of many variants:
- 3155 - day-date
- 3130 - no date
- 3131 - no date, includes an anti-magnetic shield
- 3132 - no date, contains a Paraflex anti-shock system
- 2235 - smaller with the date
- 2230 - smaller without the date
3186 - the Rolex 24-hour GMT movement
9001 - supports two timezones and an annual calendar
4130 - a no-date chronograph

Here is a round-up of the finest models.

Men have more options in their product lineup, but some of these Rolex chronometers are also popular with women.

Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is the standard in diving watches.

Introduced in 1953, the Rolex Submariner was the first dive watch capable of withstanding pressures up to 100 meters (330 feet) in depth.

The Submariner comes equipped with a waterproof winding crown called the Triplock that includes a triple waterproof system.

The standard double expansion bracelet for the Submariner also includes the Glidelock clasp, designed for a secure and comfortable fit over thick diving suits.

Case size: 40mm
Water resistance: 300 meters or 1,000 feet
Movement: 3135 (date models) or 3130 (no date)
Bezel Type: unidirectional rotating 60-minute dive bezel with Ceracrom insert
Bracelet type: Oyster type with Oysterlock clasp and Glidelock extension

Rolex Explorer II

The Rolex Explorer II watch has a storied history.

Introduced in 1953, the original Explorer accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on the first ascent of Mt. Everest.

The Explorer II came about in 1971 and featured a date display and an orange 24-hour hand with a fixed bezel and 24-hour markers.

The additional illuminated 24-hour hand on its black dial allows the wearer to track the hour in another time zone or distinguish day from night where that is otherwise impossible, such as the polar regions or inside a cave.

Case size: 42mm, Oystersteel
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 3187
Additional movement features: a 24-hour GMT function and Paraflex anti-shock system
Bezel type: fixed 24-hour bezel
Bracelet type: Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock clasp

Rolex GMT-Master II

The original GMT-Master model was introduced in 1955 and developed to aid professionals traveling around the world in tracking time in two different time zones.

The GMT-Master II with Pepsi bezel and black dial came about in 1982, adding a new movement and the ability to set the hour hand independently from the minute or 24-hour hand.

The two-tone ceramic Pepsi bezel allows the wearer to differentiate day from night for the selected timezone.

Case size: 40mm
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 3186
Additional movement features: 24-hour hand and date complication
Bezel Type: bidirectional rotating 24-hour bezel for tracking multiple timezones
Bracelet type: Oyster Band or Jubilee

Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust model, introduced in 1945 to mark the 40th anniversary of the company’s founding, was the first self-winding wrist chronometer to display the date in a separate window on the dial.

Datejust gets its name from the way the movement changed the date “just” before midnight.

The Datejust is one of the more customizable Rolex timepieces available.

Case size: available in 28mm, 31mm, 34mm, 36mm, and 41mm in various metals
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 2236 (28mm and 31mm models), 3135 (34mm model), or 3235 (36mm and 41mm models)
Additional movement features: date complication
Dial: selections vary widely [R]
Bezel Type: options vary from smooth stainless steel to classic fluted style to diamond-encrusted
Bracelet Type: various bracelets are available

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, introduced in 1963 and conceived as a tool for professional motorsport racing drivers, is a high-demand wrist chronograph.

Daytona's unique features include measuring elapsed time and average speeds.

The Daytona Rolex timepieces pay tribute to the racetrack in Florida, where American motorsport celebrates its roots and are considered some of the finest Rolex models to own.

Case size: 40mm. Available in Oystersteel and precious metals
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 4130
Additional movement features: 3 sub-dials show running seconds, 30-minute, and 12-hour totals
Bezel type: fixed bezel with a tachometer scale
Bracelet type: Oyster or Oysterflex with Oysterlock clasp

Rolex Day-Date

The Rolex Day-Date launched in 1956 as the first waterproof, self-winding wristwatch displaying both the day and date on the dial.

The company only offers the Day-Date in 950 platinum or yellow gold (18k gold) versions in case you want to search for other variants.

The Day-Date is also known as the “president’s watch,” or the President, given its popularity among world leaders over the years.

Spelling out the day of the week was a horological first of its kind.

Case size: 36mm and 40mm. Available only in 18k gold (yellow gold) and 950 platinum
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 3155 (36mm) or 3255 (40mm)
Additional movement features: day and date complications
Bezel type: smooth, fluted, or bejeweled bezels
Bracelet type: various bracelets, i.e. President bracelet available

Rolex Milgauss

Rolex originally developed the Milgauss to serve the scientific community working in particle physics at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN).

CERN is home to the Large Hadron Collider.

The Milgauss can withstand a magnetic field of 50 to 100 gauss because of its movement shielding composed of ferromagnetic alloys.

The iconic orange lightning-bolt shaped second hand indicates the watch’s resistance to electromagnetic fields. Its dial also has a beautiful shade of blue.

Case size: 40mm, Oystersteel
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 3131, no-date
Additional movement features: anti-magnetic shield
Bezel type: Fixed stainless steel
Bracelet type: Oyster with clasp

Rolex Sky-Dweller

The Sky-Dweller is the next evolutionary step of the GMT-Master II.

It sports a second time-zone display on the blue inset dial ring.

The Ring Command bezel allows the wearer to select and adjust the date, local hour, or reference time, and then perform adjustments using the winding crown.

Case size: 42mm, available in Oystersteel with gold bezel or all gold
Water resistance: 100m or 330 feet
Movement: 9001
Additional movement features: second time zone with GMT disc and an annual calendar
Bezel Type: Fluted gold
Bracelet type: Oyster or leather bracelet with Oysterlock clasp

Rolex Cellini

The Cellini collection—inspired by the Italian Renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini—is available in four Rolex models and: Moonphase, Dual Time, Time, and Date.

Moonphase includes an inset inner disc with a lunar calendar and an actual slice of meteorite representing the full moon.

It also displays the date around the circumference of the black dial using an additional hand with a crescent-moon-shaped tip.

Dual Time features a simultaneous display of the local time and time elsewhere, complete with an AM/PM indicator.

Time is simply a timepiece with a second hand, and the Date includes an inset dial pointing to the current date.

Case size: 39mm, available in precious metals (including the rose gold Everose)
Water resistance: 50 meters or 165 feet
Movement: 3132 (time-only), 3165 (date), 3180 (dual-time), 3195 (moon phase)
Additional movement features: date, dual-time, and moon phase
Bezel Type: various (fluted or with precious stones)
Bracelet type: leather bracelet in black or brown with a traditional buckle

Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is the nautical watch version for sailing and yachting enthusiasts.

It features a countdown timer as well as the standard chronograph.

The timer of Yacht-Master is programmed using the functional bezel to set the number of minutes (up to 10) for the countdown.

Rolex timepieces have an association with yachting dating back to the 1950s and to the global navigators who sailed the world in the 1960s. Travelers search for this watch due to its excellent functionality.

Case size: 44mm, available in various precious metals
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 4161, Regatta chronograph
Additional movement features: a countdown timer
Bezel Type: rotating type and programs the timer, available in Ceracrom or precious metals
Bracelet type: Oyster with a clasp or the Oysterflex bracelet

Rolex Air-King

Debuting during the mid-1940s as homage to British RAF pilots of World War II, the newest Rolex Air-King has a distinct, highly readable black watch face with prominent hourly 3, 6, 9, Arabic numerals, and a minute scale for navigational time notation.

Case size: 40mm, available in Oystersteel
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: 3131, no-date
Additional movement features: anti-magnetic shielding
Bezel type: fixed stainless steel
Bracelet type: Oyster with Oysterlock clasp

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

The original Rolex Oyster launched in 1926 is the direct ancestor of the Perpetual, the first and the greatest models for men.

Classic styling, multiple watch face colors, and various sizes are the standard for this stunning timepiece with all of the modern updates.

Case size: available in Oystersteel in 26mm, 31mm, 34mm, 36mm, and 39mm
Water resistance: 100 meters or 330 feet
Movement: time-only - 2231 (26mm and 31mm models), 3130 (34mm and 36mm models), 3132 (39mm model)
Bezel type: fixed steel
Bracelet Type: Oyster with Oysterlock clasp

Worst Rolex Wristwatch - Oystersteel

Rolex's adoption of 904L steel, known as Oystersteel, for its watches has certainly set them apart, but not all sentiments are glowing. Here's a rundown of the less-than-stellar aspects of this particular material:

Perceived Lack of Exclusivity: Some watch enthusiasts feel that the association of 904L steel with inferior brands leads to a general perception of a lack of quality. This sentiment might not reflect the material's properties but rather its broader associations in the watch market.
Not Completely Corrosion-Proof: Despite its praised resistance to saltwater and acidic liquids, 904L steel isn't entirely immune to corrosion. Over time, watches made from this material can develop tarnish and pitting, especially compared to its predecessor, the 316L stainless steel, highlighting that no material is perfect.
Difficulty in Machining: Rolex's shift to 904L was partly to prevent premature deterioration. However, this steel is known to be harder and less machinable than other steels commonly used in watches. This characteristic might contribute to higher production costs and potentially influence the final product's price.
Slightly Higher Nickel Discharge: While 904L steel boasts a slightly higher resistance to corrosion due to its higher nickel discharge, this could be a concern for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to nickel. Despite its strengths, this aspect might limit its appeal to a broader audience

What is the Greatest Rolex Timepiece of All Time?

Some argue that the Day-Date President’s model in 18k gold is the number one Rolex to buy for its classic style, elegance, and minimal but beautifully presented day-and-date presentations.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

The following are some of our readers’ frequently asked questions.

What's the Recommended Place to Buy a Rolex?

Horology enthusiasts interested in buying a Rolex new with a warranty can purchase one from an authorized retailer such as Amazon. There are also numerous other sources for pre-owned Rolex timepieces (including Amazon), but fake copies are everywhere, so make sure you trust the source.

Which Rolex Holds Its Value the Most?

The vintage Rolex Submariner is considered a safe bet when investing in Rolex timepieces. First produced in the 1950s, they are proven to increase the most in value. However, there have been many iterations of the Submariner since its inception. Typically, vintage Rolex Submariners within specific reference number ranges increase a lot in value.

Which is the Most Popular Rolex Model?

The Rolex Submariner is also considered the most popular timepiece in the collection. However, some may argue the Explorer and Explorer II with their rugged styling, the Daytona, or the GMT-Master II are the most popular models.

Which is the Cheapest Rolex?

The least expensive in the Rolex product line is the Oyster Perpetual—the newest incarnation of the 1926 classic. This timepiece is a waterproof and dustproof sealed watch with self-winding (perpetual) movement. It’s the most basic, time-only chronograph they offer.

What is the Top Rolex to Invest In?

The Cosmograph Daytona “Panda” edition is probably the greatest investment for a luxury watch enthusiast. These classic timepieces are challenging to find and in high demand. The 1968 Rolex Daytona owned by Paul Newman still retains the record for fetching the highest price at auction for a luxury wristwatch at $17.8 million. While you probably can’t expect to get that kind of return on your investment like Paul Newman, the Daytona Panda edition is still a highly sought-after chronograph.

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