Are you considering stepping into the world of luxury timepieces? Rolex watches stand as a pinnacle of craftsmanship, elegance, and prestige. Opting for preowned Rolex watches not only allows you to enter this exclusive realm at a more affordable price point but also presents a unique investment opportunity. In this blog post, we present the top 10 preowned Rolex watches to consider, along with their model numbers, features, and investment potential.
Finding the Model and Serial Numbers on Preowned Rolex Watches
Before we delve into the top 10 preowned Rolex watches, let’s discuss where to find the crucial model and serial numbers. These identifiers authenticate the watch and provide essential information for research and valuation.
Model Number: The model number is usually located between the lugs of the watch at the 12 o’clock position, engraved on the case. It’s a unique combination of letters and numbers that specifies the model and variant of the Rolex watch.
Serial Number: The serial number is also found between the lugs at the 6 o’clock position, on the case’s side. This number helps determine the production date of the watch and can be useful in establishing its provenance.
Now, let’s explore the top 10 preowned Rolex watches, their features, investment potential, and why buying preowned is a smart choice.
1. Rolex Submariner – Model: 116610LN
Functionality: The Submariner is a diving watch that can withstand depths of up to 300 meters. It features a date complication and a unidirectional rotating bezel for tracking elapsed time underwater.
Bezel: Ceramic, Unidirectional Rotating
Dial: Black
Band: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
Cost: $8,000 – $12,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Submariner is an icon in the watch world, making it a strong investment choice. Buying preowned provides access to this legend at a lower cost compared to a new purchase. It’s a sought-after model, ensuring good resale value.
Appreciation/Depreciation: Historically, the Submariner has appreciated over time due to its timeless design and iconic status. Preowned models tend to hold their value well.
2. Rolex Daytona – Model: 116500LN
Functionality: The Daytona is a chronograph designed for racing enthusiasts. It features a tachymeter bezel for measuring speed, and its precise movement allows for accurate timekeeping during events.
Bezel: Ceramic, Fixed with Tachymeter Scale
Dial: White
Band: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
Cost: $20,000 – $25,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Daytona’s popularity often leads to waiting lists at authorized dealers. Opting for preowned offers immediate access to this iconic timepiece. As a collector’s favorite, its value is expected to appreciate over time.
Appreciation/Depreciation: The Daytona has demonstrated consistent appreciation due to limited availability and high demand, making it a solid investment choice.
3. Rolex GMT-Master II – Model: 126710BLRO
Functionality: The GMT-Master II is perfect for travelers with its dual time zone functionality. It features a 24-hour rotatable bezel and an additional hour hand that can be set independently.
Bezel: Ceramic, Bidirectional Rotating with 24-hour Scale
Dial: Black
Band: Jubilee or Oyster Bracelet (Stainless Steel)
Cost: $12,000 – $15,000
Why Buy Preowned? Acquiring the GMT-Master II preowned allows you to enjoy its features without the initial premium. This model is known for holding its value and is likely to appreciate over time.
Appreciation/Depreciation: The GMT-Master II has shown consistent appreciation due to its functionality, design, and limited availability. Preowned models have a strong track record of holding value.
4. Rolex Datejust – Model: 126334
Functionality: The Datejust is a versatile watch suitable for various occasions. It features a date complication with the signature magnifying “Cyclops” lens over the date window.
Bezel: Fluted, Fixed
Dial: Blue
Band: Jubilee Bracelet (Stainless Steel and White Gold)
Cost: $8,000 – $10,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Datejust is a timeless classic that holds its appeal over generations. Buying preowned offers an affordable entry into Rolex elegance, and this model’s value tends to appreciate steadily.
Appreciation/Depreciation: Datejust watches have historically appreciated moderately over time, making them a reliable investment choice.
5. Rolex Explorer II – Model: 216570
Functionality: The Explorer II is designed for adventurers and features a 24-hour hand for tracking a second time zone. Its robust build makes it suitable for challenging environments.
Bezel: Fixed, Stainless Steel with 24-hour Scale
Dial: White
Band: Oyster Bracelet (Stainless Steel)
Cost: $7,000 – $9,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Explorer II’s durability and functionality make it a great choice for those seeking a reliable companion. Buying preowned allows you to own this tool watch without the premium of a new purchase.
Appreciation/Depreciation: While not as dramatic as some other models, the Explorer II generally maintains its value over time, especially preowned.
6. Rolex Sea-Dweller – Model: 126600
Functionality: The Sea-Dweller is designed for extreme underwater exploration. It features a helium escape valve and is capable of diving depths of up to 1,220 meters.
Bezel: Ceramic, Unidirectional Rotating
Dial: Black
Band: Oyster Bracelet (Stainless Steel)
Cost: $10,000 – $14,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Sea-Dweller’s technical capabilities and limited production contribute to its allure. Opting for preowned offers a chance to own this robust diver’s watch at a more accessible price point.
Appreciation/Depreciation: The Sea-Dweller, particularly preowned models, is known to hold its value well and even appreciate moderately over time.
7. Rolex Yacht-Master – Model: 116622
Functionality: The Yacht-Master is designed for sailors and features a bidirectional rotatable bezel with a 60-minute scale. It balances sportiness with elegance.
Bezel: Platinum, Bidirectional Rotating with Polished Raised Numbers
Dial: Blue
Band: Oyster Bracelet (Stainless Steel and Platinum)
Cost: $10,000 – $13,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Yacht-Master’s unique design and association with luxury yachting make it a distinctive choice. Buying preowned offers a chance to enjoy its features without the initial premium.
Appreciation/Depreciation: While not as widely recognized as some other models, the Yacht-Master generally holds its value well and can appreciate over time, especially in preowned condition.
8. Rolex Oyster Perpetual – Model: 124300
Functionality: The Oyster Perpetual is a simple and elegant timepiece suitable for everyday wear. It features the fundamental timekeeping functionality that Rolex is known for.
Bezel: Smooth, Fixed
Dial: Silver
Band: Oyster Bracelet (Stainless Steel)
Cost: $6,000 – $8,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Oyster Perpetual’s timeless design and uncomplicated nature make it a versatile choice. Opting for preowned allows you to acquire this classic Rolex without the premium of a new purchase.
Appreciation/Depreciation: While not as pronounced as some other models, the Oyster Perpetual generally maintains its value over time, especially when in good condition.
9. Rolex Milgauss – Model: 116400GV
Functionality: The Milgauss is engineered for professionals working in magnetic environments. It’s resistant to magnetic interference and features a distinctive lightning bolt seconds hand.
Bezel: Smooth, Fixed
Dial: Black with Orange Accents
Band: Oyster Bracelet (Stainless Steel)
Cost: $8,000 – $11,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Milgauss’s unique design and antimagnetic properties make it an interesting and functional choice. Opting for preowned offers an opportunity to own this distinctive model without the initial premium.
Appreciation/Depreciation: While not as consistent as some other models, the Milgauss’s value can appreciate over time, particularly for special editions like the GV (Glace Verte) with its green sapphire crystal.
10. Rolex Day-Date – Model: 118238
Functionality: The Day-Date, also known as the “President,” is a symbol of prestige and power. It features both the day and date displayed in full on the dial.
Bezel: Fluted, Fixed
Dial: Champagne
Band: President Bracelet (18k Yellow Gold)
Cost: $20,000 – $30,000
Why Buy Preowned? The Day-Date’s status and luxurious features make it highly sought after. Opting for preowned can significantly reduce the cost while still allowing you to own a watch that’s associated with world leaders and influencers.
Appreciation/Depreciation: The Day-Date, particularly in precious metals, has historically demonstrated appreciation over time due to its exclusivity and reputation.
Final Thoughts
Investing in preowned Rolex watches not only grants you access to legendary craftsmanship but also provides a chance to enter the world of horological investment. Each of these top 10 preowned Rolex models offers unique features, designs, and investment potential. Whether you’re seeking a robust tool watch, an elegant dress watch, or a symbol of prestige, there’s a preowned Rolex that fits your desires.
Remember, the world of luxury watches is complex, and factors like condition, rarity, and market trends can influence a watch’s value. While historical appreciation patterns can guide your decision, they aren’t guarantees of future performance. So, explore, research, and select preowned Rolex watches that resonates with your style and aspirations, and enjoy the journey of horological excellence and investment opportunity.
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*All images are owned and subject to copyright. Please note that the images are of watches we have IN STOCK and READY TO BE WORN, but may not match the reference number on our list. Jonathan’s Fine Jewelers can source ANY of the above reference numbers for you!
