What Are The Most Affordable Rolex Watches?
1. Oyster Perpetual
Starting at: $5,100
The most inexpensive piece from the brand is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual. Now, a watch over $5k is still expensive, but considering it’s a Rolex watch, this is an affordable, high-quality timepiece that’s been around since the 1950s from a top-tier luxury brand.
The Oyster Perpetual is built from the brand’s signature corrosion-resistant Oystersteel. Resulting in a timepiece both classy and wearable. Some other impressive details include a sapphire crystal that is scratch-resistant and 18k gold hour markers. There’s nothing simple or basic about it, making it a great choice as an entry-level Rolex timepiece.
Features:
- Oystersteel Case
- 3234 Automatic Movement
- 36mm Size
- Dress Watch
2. Air-King
Starting at: $6,450
Originally designed to provide British Royal Air Force pilots with a durable and reliable watch, the Rolex Air-King recently went through a redesign after being discontinued. This means you can experience the latest model by buying new or if you appreciate the original features you can find vintage ones on the pre-owned market.
This classic Rolex pilot's watch is crafted with stainless steel, has a distinctive signature triangle, a green second hand, oversized quarter-hour numerals, and “Air-King” font is the same as it had been back in 1950. These details and craftsmanship make it a stand-out option for an affordable luxury watch.
Features:
- Oystersteel Case
- 3131 Automatic Movement
- 40mm Size
- Pilot Watch
3. Explorer
Starting at: $6,550
An icon, not just for the brand but within the industry of watch-making is the Rolex Explorer. It’s most known for reaching the summit of Mt. Everest in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. This event showcases the durability and performance of this incredible watch that has contributed to much of Rolex’s success.
An officially certified chronometer, it contains patented Paraflex shock absorbers, steel oyster case, and an Oysterlock clasp. It contains many of the same features in its original version debuted in 1953. For instance, the blue Chromalight hour hands and hour markers that enable one to see the time no matter the visibility. The rugged and impeccable reputation of this line makes it a great investment for a relatively lesser price than other Rolex models.
Features:
- Oystersteel Case
- 3132 Automatic Movement
- 39mm Size
- Field Watch
4. Datejust
Starting at: $7,050
The Datejust is known for its versatility in both clothing style and lifestyle. Considered one of, if not the most timeless, of Rolex’s designs, the Datejust has been a best-seller since its inception in 1945. As the name suggests, this timepiece also has a day date feature.
Unique features of this watch include a lens magnification, known as the Cyclops lens, that allows the wearer to more easily read the date along with a Rolex crown at the top of the watch’s interface. A top-quality dress watch that will transition from the office to the weekend, the Rolex Datejust is a timeless, classic watch with models in a more affordable range.
Features:
- Oystersteel Case
- 3136/3234 Automatic Movement
- 36mm Size
- Dress Watch
5. Submariner
Starting at: $7,900
The Submariner is infamous around the world and was incredibly successful upon its initial launch in 1953. It is most known for being the first-ever water-resistant watch. Its name derives from the timepiece’s ability to dive up to 330 feet. Newer models can now withstand up to 1,000 feet.
With similar features to the Explorer, the Rolex Submariner has a zero marker shaped like a triangle with Chromalight blue hour and hand markers plus the ability a 60-minute bezel designed for divers to time their minutes underwater.
The most recognized watch from Rolex, it is associated with wearers like Al Pacino, Steve McQueen, and Sean Connery’s James Bond. Perfect for those with a penchant for adventure, especially where there is snow or water, the Submariner is an obvious winner for a relatively affordable, well-made yet durable, Rolex dive watch.
Features:
- Oystersteel Case
- 3130 Automatic Movement
- 40mm Size
- Diver Watch
Where To Buy Affordable Rolex Watches?
There’s no doubt buying a Rolex watch will set you back a pretty penny. However, you can get a better price and a more historically significant timepiece on the second-hand market.
MyGemma sells authentic, second-hand modern and vintage Rolex watches appraised by in-house horologists. Not limited to just Rolex, find other luxury watch brands, jewelry and handbags at up to 80% off retail.
Where To Sell Rolex Watches
Looking to upgrade or trade-in one of your Rolex or other luxury timepieces? myGemma can help you get cash in as little as 24 hours. We offer a quick, secure service for selling luxury watches, jewelry and handbags online that is trusted by thousands of online reviewers with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating.
Sell online or in person, our process is free of charge, with no fees or commissions deducted from your final offer. Just fill out the online form and one of our in-house experts will contact you shortly with an initial price quote. Our store partners can offer you as much as 10% more on your offer if you're after an upgrade in your watch.
You can find more information about selling your Rolex watch to get the most money by reading our detailed guide on getting the best price for your timepiece.
