Used Rolex

Rolex Model Information

Rolex Submariner

Initial production on the first Submariner started in 1953. The Submariner series of wristwatch is best known for its water resistance and use among professional and amateur divers. To this day the Submariner is considered by many to be the ultimate diving watch; although by the late 1960's the watch appealed to the mass-market as a fashionable status symbol. Currently, the Submariner is offered in a variety of models, including the 116610LV, the 116613LN, the 116619LB, the 116610LN, the 116613LB, and the 116618LN. Popular models of the past include the 16610, the 16800, the 1680, the 5513, and the 5508. The Submariner has undergone a variety of changes since its original introduction, most of them quite subtle yet noticeable to any Rolex aficionado. The crown size has increased over the years and is one of the most iconic characteristics of the Submariner. Another key feature, which didnt appear until later models, is the now iconic “Mercedes” style hands. The older models also didn't include the now present “Submariner” name on the dial. For many the Submariner is the most recognizable of all Rolex models, thanks in part to its appearance in eleven James Bond 007 movies. Its rugged and versatile nature makes it a favorite among sport enthusiasts and those with active lifestyles. Rolex Submariners are in high demand and Rolex Submariner prices are constantly fluctuating.

Rolex Daytona

The Daytona is among the most sought after of all Rolex watch models, due mainly to its limited production quantity and its highly accurate movement. In fact many in the business consider the Daytona as the most in-demand of all comtemporary wristwatches, citing sale prices many times in multiple of the original retail value. Also known as the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona and borrowing its name from the famed speedway, the series started in the early 1960's but did not achieve commercial success until the 1970's. There are two distinct varieties of Daytona: those with four digit reference numbers and those with six digit reference numbers. The rarest and most valuable models are those with the four digit reference numbers, for example the 6265, 6264, 6263, 6262, 6241, 6240, 6239, and 6238. There are many differences between the models including the use of a variety of different movements and crowns. In the late 1980's, Rolex stopped producing hand-winding Daytonas and launched its first automatic chronograph. Some models included a Rolex tuned Zenith movement, then regarded as the best chronographic movement available. Paul Newman helped make the Daytona a legendary wristwatch when he wore it prominently during his stint in auto racing. Rolex would captitolize on this by releasing a Daytona with a Paul newman Dial (ref 6239). This model solidified the Daytona's association with racing. Rolex Daytona watches are hard to come by and generally fetch high prices.

Rolex Datejust

The Datejust has the claim of being the first wristwatch to include a date function. Production began in 1945 as a modified version of the Bubbleback. In addition to the date function at the three o'clock position, Rolex also introduced the fluted bezel; a design resembling the edge of a coin. At the time of its release the Datejust was the frontrunner of the Rolex brand. It quickly became a status symbol in many circles and has always been admired for its versatility and elegance. Many people consider the Datejust as the world's most recognizable Rolex model. Today the watch is available in a variety of styles and colors. Band options include the jubilee bracelet and the oyster bracelet. There are two-tones varieties and options of steel or gold. Three sizes have been available since its introduction: 26mm ladies, 21mm, 36mm, and with the introduction of the Datejust II, 41mm. The market is always strong for Rolex datejust watches and inventory usually sells quickly. Popular models include the 116233, the 116234, and the 16060.

Rolex Milgauss

Rolex has always specialized in producing watches that fit specific needs and accomplish specific functions. The Rolex Milgauss is a perfect example of this. More properly known as the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Milgauss, the series was introduced in 1956 as the 6451. The Milgauss is best known for its anti-magnetic properties and was designed for individuals who work in environments with high electromagnetic levels. Traditional wristwatches are unable to withstand electromagnetic interference and will generally fail to keep accurate time. The Milgauss on the otherhand is made with special alloys and includes a Faraday shield in the construction. The model has undergone several changes, having been at one time discontinued in 1988 and later resumed in 2007. The modern editions of Milgauss are known for their lightening rod shaped second hand and often times have a green tinted crystal. Because of the limited production quantity and the unique nature of the watch, the Milgauss is in high demand and Rolex Milgauss watches fetch good prices. Different options are available in the series, most notably the choice between a black or white dial.

Rolex Yachtmaster

The Yacht-Master is a relative newcomer in the Rolex family of watches. The model started as the 11128 in 1992. Released in 18kt gold it shared the movement of other Rolex models, but excelled in style and elegance. It retained some of the features and styling queues of its predecessors but offered limited water resistance when compared to the Submariner. Two yeas later Rolex released smaller versions of the watch including the introduction of the Ladies Yacht-Master. Notable features of the Yacht-Master include the time-lapse bezel and a 31-jewel chronometer. During Basel 1999 Rolex showed off an updated version featuring a new Platinum and Steel design, which Rolex dubbed Rolesium. The model was meant to combine the utility of the Submariner series with the elegance and fashion of the Datejust. Its for this reason that the Rolex community is largely divided on this model - between those valuing fashion and those valuing rugged utility as seen in the Submariner. Popular editions of the Yacht-Master include the 16628, the 16622 and the 16623. Later Rolex would release the updated Rolex Yacht-Master II. This model was marketed as the ultimate wristwatch for those who sail and featured a larger dial and bezel. Although less common, the demand in the marketplace is at a peak for all used Yacht-Master variations.

Rolex Explorer

As the name suggests, the Explorer has always been marketed as a highly versatile and functional Rolex watch for those who “explore.” Like the Datejust the Rolex Explorer was based on the Bubbleback model. The Explorer is credited as being the wristwatch worn during the first successful summit climb of Mount Everest by Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgay. What better event to claim as your heritage? Initially the Explorer name was applied to an assortment of models of varying style. It was not until years after its introduction that a universally recognized Explorer series emerged in the 6610 in 1959. Other popular models include the 1016 (the longest production variation), the 14270, the 114270, and the 1655 as the Explorer II. Rolex has also released an Air-King Explorer and a Space Dweller Explorer, the latter to commemorate NASA astronauts visit to Japan. All variants of the Rolex Explorer fare well in the pre-owned market with vintage and all original models doing exceptionally well.

Rolex Day Date

The Day Date, also known as the “Rolex President” was born as the 6511 in 1956. The model featured a new complication of increased complexity that showed the day spelled out at the 12 o'clock position and the numerical date at the 3 o'clock position. Later models gained one of the first examples of the hidden clasp on the band. The Day Date quickly became the pinnacle of the Rolex family or wristwatches, replacing the Rolex Datejust. Where did the model get the name “President”? It is said to have coincided with Rolex gifting one to President Dwight Eisenhower. The day display on the dial was not the only first for this model. A few years after earning the name President, a new version was released featuring the “Quick Set.” This allowed the user to set the date directly by pulling out the button half way and rotating. Later the feature would be upgraded to allow easy setting of both the day and date. The introduction of this upgraded feature was seen in the 18238 model. Many aficionados prefer the DayDate as the ultimate in fashion and class. It remains one of Rolex's best selling watches to this very date. Although the Day-Date II has entered the market with a larger case diameter, the original 18K gold “Presidential” model used Day Date draws interested buyers and we frequently have a waiting list of buyers.