Rolex watches represent the ultimate luxury, precision and excellent craftsmanship that are revered worldwide. Eventually, prices of Rolex watch typically increase every year. The retail market experiences Rolex’s price soars, and also the second hand market has discerned a substantial rise in Rolex prices over the past years. However, this is because the growing worldwide demand surpasses the moderately fixed supply.
Some specific Rolex models that you could have purchased for only a few thousand pounds many years back cost today a fortune in the open market. Moreover, you can expect to see prices for many current pre-owned models much higher than their retail prices.
Nonetheless, the fact is that there are yet several Rolex references whose values have not skyrocketed. You cannot actually categorise any Rolex watch as affordable. However, there are a few classic models that you can add to your exclusive collection for a few thousand pounds.
Lady Datejust Reference 69173
The Datejust is the quintessential Rolex watch that has today become an industry staple. This best-selling Rolex model is one of the mainstay collections within the brand’s catalogue. The Rolex Datejust is the first watch to set the standard for how calendar functionality should display and function on a wristwatch.
However, Rolex introduced Lady Datejust in 1957, offering a similar iconic design and performance. But the watch features a smaller case diameter, making it ideal for women.
- The Lady Datejust Reference 69173 is a bi-metal version pairing 18ct yellow gold with stainless steel.
- Some notable modern features include a quick-set date movement that enables you to adjust the date independently and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
- The Datejust 69173 is a luxurious yet durable watch that can accompany you on your wrist every day and suit any attire.
More significantly, you can purchase this watch for a fraction of the price of its more modern siblings.
Rolex Date Reference 1501
The Rolex Date exhibits a classic and versatile option with a 34mm case size that suits virtually any wrist. This collection made its debut during the 1950s featuring Oyster cases and chronometer-certified Calibre that automatically changed the date.
- The vintage Rolex Date Reference 1501 features an engine-turned bezel that you can only find on older Rolex 34mm watches.
- However, Rolex produced the Reference 1501 mostly in stainless steel. Only a few examples are made of solid 14ct gold.
- The Date Reference 1501 is available in various dial styles.
- The signature Cyclops lens set above the date window at 3 o’clock makes the watch instantly recognisable as Rolex.
Moreover, with the discontinued engine turned bezel style, the watch offers a unique and innately vintage aesthetic. It makes it stand out from other timepieces in the brand’s catalogue from a similar era.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Reference 1002
Rolex introduced the Oyster Perpetual collection in the 1930s, and since then, it has stayed a constant presence in the brand’s catalogue. Rolex has upgraded the line over the years but has kept it faithful to its original design. A beautiful vintage model from the Oyster Perpetual series is the Reference 1002.
- Rolex has produced several iterations of the Reference 1002 in precious metal configurations.
- However, the steel Oyster Perpetual Reference 1002 watches are more popular and belong to the least expensive Rolex timepieces out there.
Overall, all these watches feature a smooth bezel, a classic dial and a smooth bezel, regardless of their metal configuration or production year.
