In the world of horology Rolex is one of the most coveted and prestigious brands. To most people owning a Rolex watch signifies the epitome of success. Recently I saw an excerpt from a forthcoming episode of ‘The Antiques Roadshow’ which featured the United States Air Force Veteran from North Dakota.
Whilst this gentleman was in active service (1970’s) he decided to purchase a Rolex Oyster Paul Newman ref. 6263. Even though the watch was manufactured in 1971 he finally received it in 1974. At the time he paid $345.97 (nearly a month’s salary) and always intended to use it for Scuba diving. However, the timepiece was never worn and is still in pristine condition, with all original packaging, paperwork, etc. The current valuation for this particular watch is estimated to be between $500,000 and $700,000.
This story illustrates how desirable Rolex watches are and why they are so collectible, as seen on sites like this one. Certainly, you can pay big money for rare models, especially if they go to auction. However, Rolex does offer several enticing entry-level watches that won’t break the bank. Here are four of my recommendations for discerning buyers.
Best Entry-Level Rolex Watches
Rolex Oyster Perpetual
View Oyster Perpetual Models Here
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is one of the brand’s more understated offerings and has a traditional appearance. Dimensionally the watch has a 36mm Oystersteel (904L steel alloy normally used in the aerospace industry) case that should appeal to the unisex market.
My personal favorite within the range is the red grape dial version with contrasting 18-karat white gold markers. In my opinion, this combination gives the timepiece a really elegant appearance. Powering the watch is the chronometer-certified (COSC) Calibre 3130 self-winding movement, which is entirely manufactured in house. This watch currently retails for around.
Rolex Explorer
🏆 #1 Best Overall
- DURABLE STAINLESS STEEL CASE WITH ROTATING BEZEL: The Casio MDV106 Series features a stainless steel case and screw-down crown, ensuring durability and reliability. The rotating bezel allows for easy time tracking, making it a practical choice for various activities. The sleek analog display with luminous markers enhances visibility.
- 200M WATER RESISTANCE FOR VERSATILE USE: Designed for water resistance up to 200 meters (660 feet), this watch is suitable for daily wear, outdoor activities, and water-related environments. The screw-down caseback and crown provide an extra layer of security, making this a reliable timepiece for various conditions.
- CLEAR ANALOG DISPLAY WITH DATE FUNCTION: The three-hand analog display with hour, minute, and second hands ensures precise timekeeping, while the date display at the 3 o’clock position allows for quick reference. The bold markers and luminous hands enhance readability, making it easy to check the time in various lighting conditions.
- STAINLESS STEEL BAND WITH SECURE CLASP: The stainless steel band with a one-touch 3-fold clasp provides a secure and adjustable fit for all-day comfort. Designed for durability, the stainless steel material offers a polished, stylish look, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings.
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY WITH ACCURATE TIMEKEEPING: Powered by a SR626SW battery, this watch delivers up to 3 years of operation with minimal maintenance. The quartz movement ensures precise timekeeping, with an accuracy of ±20 seconds per month, providing reliable performance for daily use.
Rolex has enjoyed enormous success with the Explorer models dating back to 1953. In this year Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first adventurers to reach the summit of Mount Everest. During the expedition, Sir Edmund Hillary wore a very similar version of the present-day Explorer.
This watch has a beautifully formed 39mm Oystersteel case and complimentary black dial. Other features include luminous markers and a durable Oyster steel bracelet. Beneath the refined façade is the Calibre 3132 self-winding movement, which features Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers.
Rolex Milgauss
Rank #2
- Rhodium Grey Dial
- Platinum Bezel with Raised Numerals and 60 Minute Graduations
- Self-winding Automatic Movement
- Case Diameter: 40mm
- Oystersteel (Stainless Steel) Case and Oyster Bracelet
One massively impressive feature of the Rolex Milgauss is it designed to withstanding magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gausses. That is why it became a preferred choice of at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva. Within the range, I prefer the 40mm Oystersteel version with the electric blue dial.
I feel this gives the watch a more distinctive appearance that is sure to attract attention. Other features include green sapphire crystal and a really cool orange lightning bolt style second hand. At the heart of the watch is a patented (chronometer-certified) self-winding movement called the Calibre 3131.
Rolex Submariner
Rank #3
- Mens Wrist Watch: Features a classic big dial and quartz movement with stable quality. High hardness coated glass mirror is wear-resistant, scratch-proof, Butterfly double buckle ensures comfortable wear
- OLEVS Mens Watches: Unique Classic Design Analog Date Calendar Display Watch Window. Easy to Read, Classic Business Style, Stylish Casual Dress Watch, Stylish Gold Indexes and Round Case, finely designed, stand the test of time, handsome and outstanding
- Business Pointer Quartz Watch: Dial diameter is 1.6 inches (41 mm). Case thickness is 0.43 inches (11 mm), steel band width is 0.79 inches (20 mm), length is 8.66 inches (22 cm). The weight of the men's watch is 4.16 ounces (118 g)
- Fashion Gold Green Man Watch: Luminous Hands/Markers and Enlarged Date Window at Three o'clock, Stylish Watch with Roman Scale Bezel, Water Resistance Up to 30M. Usually, Suitable for Swimming, But not Suitable for Deep Diving
- Night-light Function：When Using the Luminous Pointer Function for the First Time, Please illuminate The Watch Under The Light for 30 Seconds to Activate the Luminous Function. Watch Chain Can Be Adjusted in Size
The Rolex Submariner is one of the main reasons I became so fascinated with watches. This iconic timepiece was first introduced in 1953 and the first divers’ wristwatch waterproof to a depth of 100 meters (present models 300 meters). Over the years it has never +lost its popularity and in my mind is still synonymous with the brand.
Within the range, my personal favorite is the 40mm Oystersteel model with Emerald green dial and contrasting 18-karat white gold markers. Other features include a matching Cerachrom unidirectional bezel, cyclops date window, and Oyster bracelet. Powering the watch is a chronometer-certified Caliber 3135 in house self-winding movement.
Rank #4
- [Luxury and Classy Design] 👍 Featuring the blue chronograph dial, 41mm gold and silver tone case, an ever-practical date display window and luminous hands, the watch showcases men's masculinity and glamour. The refined watch graces the men's everyday and dress wear.
- [Precise Chronograph Watches] 👍 The Roman numerals and diamond indexes add a nice sense of class to the watch and will be legible. The watch's dial has three sub-dials — chronograph minutes and hours, as well as running seconds. It's a new depth and sparkle to the watch, with a nicely printed dial, well-polished case and well-crafted hands.
- [Stylish Stainless Steel Watches] 👍 The precisely engineered and polished stainless steel band and the crisp edges of the case silhouette contrast with the subtle hairline finish to create a pleasingly multi-dimensional effect and comfort on the wrist. Free adjustment tool and extra links are available from seller.
- [Perfect Gifts for Men] 👍 The sparkle of crown logo complements the delicate sheen of the diamond dial. It is the preferred gift for father, husband, son, brother, boyfriend, friend and more. Perfect for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, birthdays, Father's Day, Christmas and other events.
- [Warranty & Water Resistant] 👍 30 day free return and 12 month warranty. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We will help you solve the problem as soon as possible. 👍 Water resistant to 100 feet (30 m), suitable for daily use. Not suitable for bathing, swimming, diving and other water related work.