Choosing the right Rolex is one that means balancing your lifestyle, wrist size, and, of course, your budget. A Rolex is by no means a cheap splurge, and so it’s important to know what you’re looking for, especially if you’re on a budget.
From entry-level picks like the Oyster Perpetual to the pre-owned Submariner, here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right one for your style and budget this year.
Match the Model to Your Lifestyle
There are different models to cater to different lifestyles. Whether that’s those who need a watch for everyday, business needs, those who are sporty, or avid travelers.For those who want an everyday business option, the Datejust or Oyster Perpetual is a good choice. They can transition quite flawlessly from casual wear to a suit.
Designed for diving and field exploration, the Submariner or Explorer is a great pick. Featuring robust cases and highly legible dials.
The GMT-Master II features a 24-hour rotatable bezel and allows you to track multiple time zones simultaneously, making it an excellent one for the jetsetter.
Sizing for Your Wrist
A well-fitting watch should ideally cover around two-thirds of your wrist’s total width. It shouldn’t overhang the edges, so if that’s the case, you might be selecting the wrong size. Here are some wrist measurements and the ideal sizing you should be after.- Below 6.5 inches: 34mm to 36mm
- 6.5 to 7.5 inches: 36mm, 39mm, or 40mm
- 7.5 inches and up: 41mm or larger
Setting a Realistic Budget
It’s good to get real when it comes to budgeting for a Rolex watch. As far as premium watches go, these are pricey. If you want to buy Rolex watches, then you’ll need to have a fair bit of money saved up and ready to spend.If you’re looking primarily at the pre-owned and neo-vintage markets, you can expect to spend anywhere between $6,000 and $7,000.
With the more modern, 36mm Datejusts or the Explorer I, it’s anywhere between $8,000 and $21,000+. For top-tier models like Submariners and GMT-Master IIs, you’re looking at $12,000 to over $50,000.
Material and Finish
You’ve got some material and finish choices to consider, too. Here are some of the options you’ve got to choose from.Stainless Steel
The most durable and highly sought-after material that retains its value exceptionally well and is perfect for casual, daily wear.Two-Tone
This is a blend of steel and gold. Offering an elegant vintage aesthetic, it’s often one of the slightly more accessible ones when it comes to price point.Precious Metals
For yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and platinum, these are heavier, softer, and make for a strong aesthetic statement.
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