The 4 Cheapest Rolex Watch Models

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Owning a Rolex watch can feel like being part of an exclusive club, and it is understandable that many newcomers to the luxury watch market want to benefit from the level of status, sophistication and innovation associated with the brand. However, at entry-level, new buyers are also price sensitive and it may be the case that you want to experience the feeling of owning a Rolex, without having to spend more than is necessary on the timepiece itself. So we come to the question, what is the cheapest Rolex?

Fortunately, the company offers a range of affordable watches and provides authentic Rolex quality at a modest price. These timepieces may sacrifice precious materials like gold and platinum, opting for top-of-the-industry stainless steel instead, and are subjected to rigorous testing and have excellent functions, making them ideal new collector purchases.

If you are looking to join the Rolex club and are seeking more of a status symbol than the watches in the Tudor line, but do not have the money to spend on a diamond bejeweled model or a solid gold Rolex President like your favourite celebrity, then why not try one of these less expensive options instead?

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

From left to right: Men’s to Ladies Oyster Perpetual Models

Extremely popular to those new to owning a Rolex, the Oyster Perpetual is considered the brand’s purest expression of its trademark aesthetic. It is the main entry-level model in all of the Rolex collections, effectively replacing the discontinued Rolex Air-King, and its simplistic style ensures it can compliment both casual and formal attire equally well.

The origins of the Oyster Perpetual can be traced back to the 1920s, meaning it has timeless appeal and great historic background. However, it is a “time only” model, meaning that it is suitable for those who want a basic Rolex, with the most basic of functions, only featuring an hour and minute display.

Oyster Perpetual watches are water resistant for up to 100 meters and are constructed from 904L stainless steel, meaning they are a high-industry grade steel with highly anti-corrosive properties and able to withstand repeated polishing. These watches also feature updated self-winding movements, which are enhanced and protected by shock absorbers, ultimately making the watch a robust, durable, yet very affordable option.

Brand New price range: $4,500-$6,800 | Pre-owned price Range: $3,000-$4,000

Rolex Explorer I

The Rolex Explorer I is known for its association with the first successful ascent of Mount Everest and therefore has a unique historic appeal, while still carrying a modest price tag. The new model, launched in 2010, retains this legacy of endurance, performing well in just about any conditions imaginable.

Prior to 2010, the model was available in size 36mm and now currently only available in the 39mm case size. The Explorer is another “time only” model, and it’s timekeeping is the clear focus. It features a 3132 calibre self-winding movement, offering supreme precision, while legible numerals, hands and hour markers ensure the best possible visibility, wherever you may find yourself.

The model’s movement is protected from the outside elements by two shock absorbers, a twinlock crown, and a sapphire crystal, making this a strong option for the more adventurous buyer. Another key advantage is the emphasis on comfort, as the oyster bracelet is fitted with an Easylink system, allowing the user to adjust its length without any tools or a visit to the jeweler.

New Price range: $5,500-$6,550 | Used Price Range: $3,900-$5,500

Rolex Datejust II

For those seeking a watch capable of more than just base model with timekeeping, the Rolex Datejust II introduced in 2007 may be the ideal entry-level model to consider. In addition to the date display which has become such a strong feature of many of the brand’s more expensive models, it also utilizes the revolutionary ‘cyclops lens’ above the date.

This lens enhances visibility, magnifying the date display by 2.5 times its actual size. Meanwhile, the date function itself has a quick set function which allows the date to be changed instantly using the crown. The biggest change however is the increase in size, the Datejust II has a 41mm case size, which is significantly larger from the original classic 36mm Datejust models.

Although the focus on a calendar date display defines the Datejust II, it’s timekeeping function has not been sacrificed. Indeed, the watch has a 3136 calibre movement, offering excellent precision and like all other models, this movement is protected by shock absorbers. The watch comes with and without the iconic fluted bezel made of 18K gold; another unmistakable trademark of the Rolex brand.

New Price range: $6,200-$10,700 | Used Price Range: $5,000-$7,500

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