Are Rolex watches a good investment?

Rolex watches are often bought by collectors due to their ability to appreciate in value, even when worn daily by their owners. However, it’s important to note that not all models will maintain or even increase in value over time. When looking for a good investment, it’s best to choose a watch that tends to increase in value.

Is a Rolex watch a good investment?

Yes! But a good Rolex investment ultimately depends on the model. The Daytona, Submarina and GMT Master II are all known to have been resilient during economic downturn, making them a great investment.

Rolex’s commitment to quality, paired with enduring popularity among the watch buying community, plus limited production runs for certain models, has increased some models' likelihood of appreciation over time.

It’s predicted that pre-owned watches will grow in popularity due to the price of new Rolex watches being expected to increase in price. However, when buying a Rolex as an investment, it’s important to remember that their value can fluctuate depending on economic conditions and consumer demand.

Investing in a new Rolex VS pre-owned

Rolex watches are known for holding their value, making investing in a pre-owned or new Rolex watch an attractive choice. However, the cost of buying a brand new Rolex can be off-putting for some buyers or collectors, making pre-owned a more ideal option.

However, when purchasing a second-hand watch, it’s important to buy from a brand you trust and to have the watch authenticated to help you make an informed decision. At Panache, we authenticate and value all of our second-hand watches, ensuring you get the best possible price, whether you’re buying or selling. For more information on the watches we buy and sell, get in touch with us today.

What is the best Rolex for investment​?

When it comes to purchasing Rolex watches as an investment, some watches historically hold their value more than others. Here are a few of the best Rolex watches for investments:

The Submariner

The Submariner watch dates back to 1953 and was designed specifically for scuba divers. It is able to withstand dramatic water depths of up to 1,000 feet and showcases indices that glow in the dark, making it easier to read underwater. Its bezel also rotates in both directions, allowing divers to measure their dives and rate of decompression.

The GMT-Master II

The GMT-Master II design is a 1983 wristwatch devised for pilots that displays multiple time zones at once. Even earlier in 1963, Rolex released the Cosmograph Daytona for professional race car drivers. Its tachymetric scale allows drivers to time themselves easily and configure their average speeds over a certain distance.

The Rolex Daytona

The Daytona watches are particularly popular among collectors, especially the vintage models like Daytona 6239 ‘Paul Newman’ and the Daytona 6263, as they have limited production numbers. The Daytona Ceramic 116500LN is also popular among those looking for second-hand Rolex watches.

The Rolex Day-Date

The Rolex Day-Date, also referred to as the ‘President watch’ due to many American Presidents wearing the model over the years, is a popular collectors' item.

Vintage versions like the Day-Date 1803 and Day-Date 18238 are known for their classic design and historical significance. Modern models like the Day-Date 40 228238 and Day-Date 36 128238 are also popular for their mechanical precision and aesthetics

The Rolex Explorer

The Explorer 1016 and Explorer II 1655 ‘Steve McQueen’ are highly popular among outdoor enthusiasts and collectors, while modern versions like Explorer 214270 are sought after due to their more modern features.

Modern Rolex Watches

Smart investments are not just limited to vintage pieces. Modern Rolex watches are still great options, especially if they belong to a limited or discontinued edition. Rolex’s steel watches appear to be the most in demand, over the more unusual metals like gold and diamond, which are subject to constantly fluctuating prices.

Of course, trends are subject to change, but it is unlikely that an old or rare, well-maintained Rolex is going to be anything but a fruitful investment.

How to care for your Rolex

Rolex watches are expertly made with materials designed to endure, so don’t be afraid to actively wear and enjoy your watch.

However, taking those extra steps to conserve the condition of your watch can greatly improve the price it will fetch on the market. Keeping your watch in a watch box overnight and getting it professionally serviced are good practices that you’ll be thankful for in the long run. Learn more about how to take care of your Rolex watch in our blog.

How to sell a Rolex watch

For advice on getting into luxury watch investment and selling on your timepieces, Panache offers outstanding support from some of the best professionals in the industry.

Sell your watch with Panache today!

FAQs

How much is a Rolex watch?

This ultimately depends on the model you want to purchase and where you’re buying it from. For more information on how much your Rolex watch is, get in touch with us today or complete a no-obligation quote.

What is the most expensive Rolex watch?

The most expensive Rolex watch is currently the Daytona ‘Paul Newman’. After disappearing for about three decades, the watch resurfaced in 2016 and was auctioned for $17.8 million dollars.