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1978 Rolex Datejust

Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone Champagne Dial Automatic 36mm
Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone Champagne Dial Automatic 36mm

Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 1601 Two-Tone Champagne Dial Automatic 36mm

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

The Foundational Two-Tone Watch The Rolex Datejust is the benchmark. First released in 1945, it set the standard for a modern dress watch with its automatic movement and date functi...

Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Stainless Steel

Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 16018 18K Yellow Gold Purple Dial Automatic 36mm
Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 16018 18K Yellow Gold Purple Dial Automatic 36mm

Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 16018 18K Yellow Gold Purple Dial Automatic 36mm

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Solid Gold Presence, Uncommon Dial While the Datejust is the foundation of the Rolex catalog, this reference 16018 stands apart.

Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 16003 Two-Tone Champagne Buckley Dial Auto 34mm
Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 16003 Two-Tone Champagne Buckley Dial Auto 34mm

Vintage 1978 Rolex Datejust 16003 Two-Tone Champagne Buckley Dial Auto 34mm

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

A Collector's Dial In A Classic Form The Datejust is the foundation of the Rolex catalog, but certain dial variations elevate a watch into a different class.

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Rolex Two-Tone Datejust With Box & Papers and Original Dial From 1978
Rolex Two-Tone Datejust With Box & Papers and Original Dial From 1978

Rolex Two-Tone Datejust With Box & Papers and Original Dial From 1978

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Reference 1601 METAL / MATERIAL: Two-Tone Stainless Steel & Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1978 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Le...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, Stainless Steel

Vintage 1978 Rolex Lady Datejust 6907 18K WG Green Stella Diamond Dial Auto 26mm
Vintage 1978 Rolex Lady Datejust 6907 18K WG Green Stella Diamond Dial Auto 26mm

Vintage 1978 Rolex Lady Datejust 6907 18K WG Green Stella Diamond Dial Auto 26mm

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Key Specifications Reference: 6907 Model: Lady Datejust Year: 1978 Movement: Automatic Case Size: 26mm Bezel: 18K White Gold with Factory Diamonds & Emeralds Bracelet: 18K White Gol...

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold

Rolex Steel Quickset Datejust with Original Box and Papers from 1978 or 1979
Rolex Steel Quickset Datejust with Original Box and Papers from 1978 or 1979

Rolex Steel Quickset Datejust with Original Box and Papers from 1978 or 1979

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Reference 16030 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1978 / 79 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43mm X Diameter...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Datejust Steel 1 Carat Custom Diamond Blue MOP Dial Men's 1978 Watch 16014
Rolex Datejust Steel 1 Carat Custom Diamond Blue MOP Dial Men's 1978 Watch 16014

Rolex Datejust Steel 1 Carat Custom Diamond Blue MOP Dial Men's 1978 Watch 16014

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Details: Model Number 16014 Brand Rolex Department Men Style Dress/Formal, Luxury Model Rolex Datejust 16014 Band Color Steel Dial Color Blue Case Color Steel Display Analog Year Man...

Category

2010s Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Datejust Two Tone Diamond Dial Mens Watch
Rolex Datejust Two Tone Diamond Dial Mens Watch

Rolex Datejust Two Tone Diamond Dial Mens Watch

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Mens Rolex- Datejust Date: 1978 34 mm Preowned Diamond Dial Reference: 1500 18kt yellow gold and stainless steel

Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Ladies Datejust 69240 26mm Silver Diamond Dial Stainless Steel Jubilee
Rolex Ladies Datejust 69240 26mm Silver Diamond Dial Stainless Steel Jubilee

Rolex Ladies Datejust 69240 26mm Silver Diamond Dial Stainless Steel Jubilee

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 69240 Serial: 553*** Year: 1978 Model: Rolex Ladies Datejust Case Material: 26mm Band: Stainless Steel Jubilee Bezel: Stainless Steel Dial: Custom Silver ...

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 16014 36mm Black Diamond Dial 18k Gold Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 16014 36mm Black Diamond Dial 18k Gold Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 16014 36mm Black Diamond Dial 18k Gold Stainless Steel

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 16014 Serial: 554**** Year: 1978 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Jubilee Bezel: 18k White Gold Fluted Dial: Cu...

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 16014 36mm Green Diamond Dial 18k Gold Bezel Stainless Steel
Rolex Datejust 16014 36mm Green Diamond Dial 18k Gold Bezel Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 16014 36mm Green Diamond Dial 18k Gold Bezel Stainless Steel

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 16014 Serial: 573**** Year: 1978 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: Stainless Steel Bezel: 18k White Gold Fluted Bezel Dial: Cust...

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust 1603 Champagne Pie Pan Dial 14k Yellow Gold Stainless Steel 36mm
Rolex Datejust 1603 Champagne Pie Pan Dial 14k Yellow Gold Stainless Steel 36mm

Rolex Datejust 1603 Champagne Pie Pan Dial 14k Yellow Gold Stainless Steel 36mm

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 1603 Serial: 519**** Year: 1978 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: 14k Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Jubilee Bezel: 14k Yellow Go...

Category

Late 20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Ladies Datejust 6917 Bark Finish MOP Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel 18K Gold
Rolex Ladies Datejust 6917 Bark Finish MOP Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel 18K Gold

Rolex Ladies Datejust 6917 Bark Finish MOP Diamond Dial Diamond Bezel 18K Gold

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 6917 Serial: 523**** Year: 1978 Model: Rolex Lady Datejust President Case Material: 18k Yellow Gold Band: 18k Yellow Gold President Bark Finish Bezel: Custom...

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Ladies President 6917 26mm Champagne Houndstooth Dial 18K Yellow Gold
Rolex Ladies President 6917 26mm Champagne Houndstooth Dial 18K Yellow Gold

Rolex Ladies President 6917 26mm Champagne Houndstooth Dial 18K Yellow Gold

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 6917 Serial: 5423*** Year: 1978 Model: Rolex Ladies President Datejust Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold Band: 18K Yellow Gold President Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold...

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Recent Sales

Rolex Two-Tone Datejust Men's 1978, Automatic Diamond Ruby Dial 18 Karat Gold
Rolex Two-Tone Datejust Men's 1978, Automatic Diamond Ruby Dial 18 Karat Gold

Rolex Two-Tone Datejust Men's 1978, Automatic Diamond Ruby Dial 18 Karat Gold

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Rolex Datejust Men's Watch Custom Diamond Ruby Bezel Dial 18k Gold, Dated 1978 Rolex Two Tone Datejust Men's 1978, Automatic Diamond Ruby Dial 18 karat Gold SKU: WA00014 PRIMARY DE...

Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

1978 Rolex Datejust 36MM 16013 Black Dial Diamond Bezel Gold & Steel Watch
1978 Rolex Datejust 36MM 16013 Black Dial Diamond Bezel Gold & Steel Watch

1978 Rolex Datejust 36MM 16013 Black Dial Diamond Bezel Gold & Steel Watch

By Rolex

Located in Houston, TX

In excellent condition. Datejust 36 Watch Properties Family: Datejust 36 Model: Datejust 36 Ref.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel

1978 Rolex Datejust 18 Karat Yellow Gold and Rare Malachite Dial Model 6917
1978 Rolex Datejust 18 Karat Yellow Gold and Rare Malachite Dial Model 6917

1978 Rolex Datejust 18 Karat Yellow Gold and Rare Malachite Dial Model 6917

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Vintage Rolex 18 Karat Yellow Gold Ladies DateJust with a RARE and original Rolex Malachite dial circa 1978 26mm Dial Automatic movement Model Ref 6917 Currently fits up to a 6.5"-...

Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Malachite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Rose Gold Datejust Automatic Wristwatch 6827 1978
Rolex Rose Gold Datejust Automatic Wristwatch 6827 1978

Rolex Rose Gold Datejust Automatic Wristwatch 6827 1978

By Rolex

Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire

Ref COM588 Model Number 6827 Serial Number 594**** Condition 9 - Excellent condition Gender Unisex Age 1978 Case Diameter 31 mm Case Size 31mm Box & Papers Box only Move...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Rolex Datejust Birch Wood Dial & “Bark” Bezel C. 1978
Rolex Datejust Birch Wood Dial & “Bark” Bezel C. 1978

Rolex Datejust Birch Wood Dial & “Bark” Bezel C. 1978

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

The watch is a ref. #16078 Datejust in 18k yellow gold, made circa 1978. This would have been among the first Datejusts offered by Rolex with a sapphire crystal.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Oyster Datejust Perpetual 1978 Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Watch
Rolex Oyster Datejust Perpetual 1978 Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Watch

Rolex Oyster Datejust Perpetual 1978 Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Watch

By Rolex

Located in London, GB

This Rolex Oyster Datejust 16013F watch is made in 18K yellow gold and stainless steel. It is in perfect condition and works perfectly as it was fully restored. It comes with its Rol...

Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Rolex Datejust Stainless Steel Custom Green Diamond Dial, Dated 1978
Rolex Datejust Stainless Steel Custom Green Diamond Dial, Dated 1978

Rolex Datejust Stainless Steel Custom Green Diamond Dial, Dated 1978

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / 1601 METAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA: 1978 MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Perpetual, Automatic / 26 Jewels 1570 DIAL / HANDS: C...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Datejust 6917 18 Karat on Custom Band Blue Dial Auto Watch, circa 1978
Rolex Datejust 6917 18 Karat on Custom Band Blue Dial Auto Watch, circa 1978

Rolex Datejust 6917 18 Karat on Custom Band Blue Dial Auto Watch, circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in Miami, FL

Auto w/ sweep seconds and date. Ref 6917. Circa 1978. Fine Pre-owned Rolex Watch. Certified preowned Dress Rolex Datejust 6917 watch is made out of yellow gold on a Gold Jubilee band...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Rolex Day-Date 18038, 36mm 18ct yellow gold case, president bracelet, year 1980
Rolex Day-Date 18038, 36mm 18ct yellow gold case, president bracelet, year 1980

Rolex Day-Date 18038, 36mm 18ct yellow gold case, president bracelet, year 1980

By Rolex

Located in Canterbury, England

Included is its original inner and outer box, Rolex notepad (unused), swing tag with serial, 1978/9 calendar, Rolex Datejust instruction booklet , Rolex Oyster booklet, translation b...

Category

Vintage 1980s Wrist Watches

1978 Rolex Datejust 36MM 16014 Custom Diamond Stainless Steel Watch
1978 Rolex Datejust 36MM 16014 Custom Diamond Stainless Steel Watch

1978 Rolex Datejust 36MM 16014 Custom Diamond Stainless Steel Watch

By Rolex

Located in Houston, TX

Might show minor signs of wear. Datejust 36 Watch Properties Family: Datejust 36 Model: Datejust 36 Ref.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Steel, Stainless Steel

1978 Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust 16030 Tuxedo Dial Mens Watch 36MM 8 Inch
1978 Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust 16030 Tuxedo Dial Mens Watch 36MM 8 Inch

1978 Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust 16030 Tuxedo Dial Mens Watch 36MM 8 Inch

By Rolex

Located in Santa Monica, CA

1978 Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust 16030 Tuxedo Dial Mens Watch 36MM 8 inch wrist all factory 5.6 million serial number circa 1978 Working condition, working on time Super clean ...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Steel Datejust with Custom Made Dial and Original Bracelet from 1978 or 79
Rolex Steel Datejust with Custom Made Dial and Original Bracelet from 1978 or 79

Rolex Steel Datejust with Custom Made Dial and Original Bracelet from 1978 or 79

By Rolex

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Ref. 1603 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1978 / 1979 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 44mm X 36mm MOVEMENT / C...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Datejust 16003 Black Tapestry Dial 18K Yellow Gold Stainless Steel 36mm
Rolex Datejust 16003 Black Tapestry Dial 18K Yellow Gold Stainless Steel 36mm

Rolex Datejust 16003 Black Tapestry Dial 18K Yellow Gold Stainless Steel 36mm

By Rolex

Located in San Diego, CA

Style Number: 16003 Serial: 522**** Year: 1978 Model: Rolex Datejust Case Material: Stainless Steel Band: 18K Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel Jubilee Band Bezel:...

Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

1978 Rolex Datejust Steel and White Gold 16014 Wristwatch
1978 Rolex Datejust Steel and White Gold 16014 Wristwatch

1978 Rolex Datejust Steel and White Gold 16014 Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire

Vintage * *Complete with: Presentation Pouch dated 1978 *Case Size: 36mm *Strap: Stainless Steel Jubilee *Age: 1978 *Strap length: Adjustable up to 18cm. Please note we can ord...

Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold, Steel

Rolex lady Datejust Coral dial 1978
Rolex lady Datejust Coral dial 1978

Rolex lady Datejust Coral dial 1978

By Rolex

Located in Heerlen, NL

Beautiful Rolex datejust with coral dial. The watch is bought from the first owner who bought it in 1978.

Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

Coral, 18k Gold

Rolex 14K YG Midsize Datejust 1978
Rolex 14K YG Midsize Datejust 1978

Rolex 14K YG Midsize Datejust 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex 14K YG Midsize Oyster Perpetual Datejust ref # 6827 31mm diameter case with smooth bezel, serial #5.89 million circa 1978.

Category

Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch Ref 16000 circa 1978
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch Ref 16000 circa 1978

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch Ref 16000 circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex stainless steel Datejust wristwatch, Ref. 16000, serial number 5.5 million, circa 1978. 36mm diameter full size man's model with smooth bezel and acrylic crystal with beautiful...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch Ref 16014 circa 1978
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch Ref 16014 circa 1978

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch Ref 16014 circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch, Ref. 16014, serial number 5.5 million, circa 1978. 36mm case with 18K white gold fluted bezel and acrylic crystal.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Oysterquartz Wristwatch Ref 17000 circa 1978
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Oysterquartz Wristwatch Ref 17000 circa 1978

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Oysterquartz Wristwatch Ref 17000 circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex stainless steel Datejust Oysterquartz wristwatch, Ref. 17000, serial number 5.3m million, circa 1978. 36mm case with smooth bezel.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch circa 1978 Custom Colored Blue Dial

Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch circa 1978 Custom Colored Blue Dial

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex 18k yellow gold Datejust wristwatch, Ref. 16018, serial number 5.8 million, circa 1978. 36mm diameter full size man's model with fluted bezel, sapphire crystal and beautiful cu...

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch with Custom-Colored Dial circa 1978
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch with Custom-Colored Dial circa 1978

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Wristwatch with Custom-Colored Dial circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex stainless steel Datejust wristwatch, Ref. 1601, serial number 5.2 million, circa 1978. 36mm full size man's model with smooth bezel and acrylic crystal.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch with Custom-Colored Dial Circa 1978
Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch with Custom-Colored Dial Circa 1978

Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch with Custom-Colored Dial Circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex 18K Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch ref 16018 serial# 5.6 million circa 1978. 36mm diameter full size man's model with fluted bezel and sapphire crystal.

Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Patina’d Dial Automatic Wristwatch Ref 16000 1978
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Patina’d Dial Automatic Wristwatch Ref 16000 1978

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Patina’d Dial Automatic Wristwatch Ref 16000 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex Datejust stainless steel scarce ref 16000 with richly patina’d original dial case serial #5.5 million circa 1978.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch with Tiger's Eye Stone Dial circa 1978
Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch with Tiger's Eye Stone Dial circa 1978

Rolex Yellow Gold Datejust Wristwatch with Tiger's Eye Stone Dial circa 1978

By Rolex

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Rolex 18k yellow gold Datejust wristwatch, Ref. 16018, serial number 5.5 million, circa 1978. 36mm full-size man's model with smooth bezel and sapphire crystal without date magnifier.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Tiger's Eye, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Datejust 1978 Men's Watch Diamond Bezel & Gold Diamond Dial Steel Jubilee
Rolex Datejust 1978 Men's Watch Diamond Bezel & Gold Diamond Dial Steel Jubilee

Rolex Datejust 1978 Men's Watch Diamond Bezel & Gold Diamond Dial Steel Jubilee

By Rolex

Located in New York, NY

Rolex Datejust 1978 Men's Watch Diamond Bezel & Gold Diamond Dial Steel Jubilee Rolex Two Tone Datejust Men's 1978, Automatic Diamond Pearl Dial 18 karat Gold SKU: WA00007 PRIMARY ...

Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel

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1978 Rolex Datejust For Sale on 1stDibs

Find the exact 1978 rolex datejust you’re shopping for in the variety available on 1stDibs. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using gold, stainless steel and yellow gold. You can easily find a 28 antique edition and 6 modern creations to choose from as well. If you’re looking for a 1978 rolex datejust from a specific time period, our collection is diverse and broad-ranging, and you’ll find at least one that dates back to the 20th Century while another version may have been produced as recently as the 21st Century. A 1978 rolex datejust can be a stylish choice for most occasions, but diamond rings, from our inventory of 11, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look, day or night. Today, if you’re looking for a round cut version of this piece and are unable to find the perfect match, our selection also includes baguette cut alternatives. When shopping for a 1978 rolex datejust, you’ll find that there are less available pieces for unisex or women today than there are for men.

How Much is a 1978 Rolex Datejust?

Prices for a 1978 rolex datejust can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $3,679 and can go as high as $26,550, while this accessory, on average, fetches $6,241.

Rolex for sale on 1stDibs

While the rise in popularity of vintage Rolex watches is of no surprise to aficionados, collectors and industry experts, when it comes to contemporary luxury wristwatches, Rolex is also often the first brand that springs to mind. Not only is the company revered for its precision timekeeping and impeccable craftsmanship, but its name was designed to be memorable.

Rolex's enviable worldwide recognition can be credited in part to the genius of company founder Hans Wilsdorf. When the German-born watch dealer and his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, set up their London enterprise, in 1905, they called it Wilsdorf & Davis, according to the traditional formula.

But Wilsdorf was determined to come up with another name that was short, would look good on a watch dial and was easy to say and remember in several languages. In 1908, he trademarked the name Rolex, and by 1920, he had moved the company to Geneva and redubbed it as Montres Rolex S.A.

But the main reasons for the brand’s success are its aforementioned commitment to precision and unflagging pursuit of innovation. In 1926, the company introduced the aptly named Oyster model. With a screw-down crown and case back, both fitted with rubber gaskets, this was the first truly waterproof watch.

Five years later, Rolex upped the ante with the Oyster Perpetual. That model’s patented Perpetual movement contained a rotor mechanism enabling it to self-wind. In another trendsetting move, in 1945, the brand debuted the Datejust, with a date window prominently displayed on the dial.

The company’s two most iconic models are sports watches. Although the Submariner, which debuted in 1953, was developed as a dive watch, its waterproof case, solid construction and good looks made it a favorite of adventurers and urbanites alike, including James Bond, who wore it in classics like Dr. No and Goldfinger. The Daytona, the racing chronograph made famous by Paul Newman, is especially sought after by collectors. Newman’s personal Daytona, which hit the auction block in 2017, sold for $17.8 million.

Find vintage Rolex watches, bracelets and more on 1stDibs.

Finding the Right Wrist-watches for You

Antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches have captured the hearts and minds of all manner of watch collectors as well as the watchmakers themselves — it's time you found your own.

Certain vintage watches for men and iconic watch designs for women are sought after not only because of their graceful proportions or innovative materials but also because of the illustrious histories of the houses that created them, histories that they stylishly embody.

Bulgari’s legendary Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional wristwatches.

Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.

In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.

Are you shopping for a wristwatch? It’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.

Find antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches for sale on 1stDibs.

Questions About Rolex

  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    An Oyster Perpetual on a Rolex watch refers to the watch's ability to run on the energy generated by the wearer's wrist movements rather than manual winding. At Baselworld in 2015, a variety of Rolex watches with a new-generation Oyster Perpetual movement were unveiled. Find a variety of vintage Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The popular Rolex Oyster Perpetual is usually between $5,900 and $6,600 in price.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Because platinum is denser than other metals, it is often more expensive to purchase platinum watches than gold. One of the most expensive watches sold was a Platinum Rolex worth $277,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watch is worth around $6,000. However, if it's encrusted with gems or vintage, it can cost as much as $50,000. 1stDibs has a great and vast selection of Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Depending on what kind of watch you're looking for, one may be better than the other. For instance, if you want a highly functional sport watch, some of Rolex's models may be better for you. That said, the brands' watches are very similar quality-wise. The main difference is their appearances: While Rolex designs more traditional timepieces, Panerai is more contemporary and bold.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To wind a Rolex watch, first fully unscrew the winding crown. Once it is in a raised position, carefully turn the crown clockwise. Most watches require 25 turns for enough winding to begin powering the watch. The instructions included with Rolex watches provide more information about how to wind specific models. Shop a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Rolex Submariner bears an 18k stamp and the number “750,” which means that 75 percent of the watch is made out of pure gold model. The most luxurious of all timepieces, the Rolex Submariner has been continuously manufactured since 1951. Find vintage Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The new Submariner Rolex with a Black Bezel is worth around $8,100 with some of the more expensive new Submariners in yellow gold costing around $36,950.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Rolex uses only the highest quality melee diamonds with between D and G in color and IF in clarity. Every diamond is tested individually to make sure it is real.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    No, Rolex does not officially make sunglasses that are available for sale. They do however occasionally create promotional products, which have included sunglasses for sponsored events in the past. Browse a range of Rolex products that have been expertly authenticated on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a great entry-level Rolex to purchase. The perpetual refers to the ability of the watch to use the energy of the wearer's wrist motion to run. It is a popular starter Rolex.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Rolex uses only the highest quality diamonds in their watches and compares these stones against certified master stones. They are the most colorless, so in ranges D to G.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A contemporary Rolex Yacht Master costs around $11,000. However, a vintage model can cost up to $30,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
    The Rolex Datejust 41 price varies between models. For example, model no: 126334 is priced at approximately $6,300 with the steel bezel and $9,350 for an 18k white gold bezel. On 1stDibs, find a range vintage Rolex watches including Datejust watches..
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To wind a Rolex Datejust, set the crown notch (located on the right hand side of the face) to position one. To set it to position one, turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew the crown and pop the crown out one notch. From this position, start to wind the Rolex by turning the crown clockwise. You should feel a bit of tension and hear a soft clicking sound. Browse a wide selection of Rolex Datejust watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The most expensive Rolex ever sold is the Paul Newman Daytona. This Rolex was purchased for $17.8 million in 2017. On 1stDibs, there are expensive Rolex watches but there is a wide variety available, so it should be easy to find a good fit for your tastes as well as your budget.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The lowest priced Rolex model is the Oyster Perpetual. This watch retails for roughly $5,000. On 1stDibs, you can can find a variety of Rolex watches for sale.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    While choosing a watch can depend on the wearer's style, there are a few consistent favorites. Some of the top Rolex watches for women include the Rolex Datejust, the Rolex Day-Date, and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual.