Most Affordable Rolex Watches | Bob's Watches

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Rolex watches are usually a solid investment, especially if you decide to purchase one pre-owned. A Rolex watch that you acquired years ago will most likely be worth more than or close to the same amount that you paid for it on the secondary market.

In that respect, retail prices are also rising, leading many luxury watch enthusiasts to wonder, what is the cheapest Rolex? Despite Rolex’s immense popularity, the brand is still obtainable by a broad range of budgets. In this video we will highlight some of our favorite options that won’t break the bank.

Oyster Perpetual: Our list starts off with the Oyster Perpetual, one of Rolex’s longest-produced models. Featuring a time-only movement and modest design set, the Oyster Perpetual has always maintained a relatively affordable price point.

One of the most affordable references is the vintage Oyster Perpetual 1002. This edition runs on either the calibre 1560 or 1570, both of which are chronometer-rated. The ref. 1002 also features an acrylic crystal over the dial, a 34mm case size, and a broad selection of dial options to suit your personality.

Datejust: Like the Oyster Perpetual, the Datejust also features a waterproof Oyster case, Perpetual movement with self-winding, and comparable classic styling. What sets the Datejust apart from the OP is the addition of a date mechanism on the dial. When the model debuted in 1945, the Datejust was the first mechanical watch to feature an automatically changing date display on the dial. Today, it has become one of the most iconic and successful models in the Rolex lineup.

The Datejust 1603 is one of the most affordable options available. It features a striking Pie Pan dial, 36mm case, an acrylic crystal, and an older-style engine-turned bezel. It also boasts a steel-on-steel finish, allowing the ref. 1603 to keep its wallet-friendly price tag.

Date: The Rolex Date is the Datejust’s smaller cousin, featuring a case that measures 34mm in diameter. The automatically changing date mechanism that made Rolex history in 1945 is still present on the dial. Additionally, the Date utilizes the company’s waterproof Oyster Case and Perpetual movement.

The stainless steel reference 1501 is positioned as one of the most affordable references within the Date series. It boasts a striking engine-turned bezel with smooth segments that mirror the hour markers on the dial, creating remarkable symmetry. Like the Datejust, the ref. 1501 is available in an attractive selection of dial options.

Cocktail: The Cocktail is an often overlooked Rolex that offers one of the most affordable price points on our list. Although it is now discontinued, the ladies Cocktail wristwatch is readily available on the secondary market in a gorgeous array of design sets, ranging from gold on matching mesh bracelets to those dripping in diamonds. Even the most opulent examples of the Cocktail are within budget and typically cost no more than a few thousand dollars.

Air-King: The Air-King debuted the same year as the Datejust with similar sophisticated styling but without a date mechanism on the dial. The stainless steel Air-King reference 5500 was produced for more than 30 years. It is readily available on the used Rolex market, making it an attractive option for many collectors. It also was never chronometer-rated, adding even further to its affordable price range.

Lady Datejust: One of the most affordable editions of the famed Datejust is the Lady-Datejust reference 69173 in stainless steel and gold. It features a nearly-identical design as the mens edition, only in a smaller size and weight. The 69173 Rolex is chronometer-rated and boasts a classic fluted bezel, a date mechanism on the dial, and water-resistance up to 100 meters.

Cellini: Rounding out our list is the exquisite Cellini dress watch. It trades the brand’s signature waterproof Oyster case for an ultra-thin case, thus, enhancing its irresistibly elegant design set. An affordable reference is the gold Cellini 5115. It features a hand-wound movement, time-only function, and leather bracelet. This unique design set allows collectors of nearly any budget to invest in a sophisticated gold Rolex.

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