If you want to max out your style, one of the easiest ways is by throwing on a watch. Watches are one of the only pieces of jewelry that also have a functional component in their ability to tell you the time. But watches can also be some of the most intricately designed pieces out there, making it easy to lose track of time despite staring at them all day long.

When you think of luxury watches worn by celebrities, one brand probably comes to mind: The Swiss brand Rolex. Rolex watches are top-of-the-line, and they are among the most popular watch brands out there. And while they can definitely cost a pretty penny, there are ways you might be able to get your wrist on one (or a similar style) without breaking the bank.

Here’s a guide to everything you need to know about Rolex pricing:

How Much Does a New Rolex Cost?

Different Rolex models naturally run a different price tag, and the price range varies depending on features like material and bezel type. The cheapest Rolex currently on the market is the Oyster Perpetual, which retails for anywhere between $5,800 and $6,150.

By contrast, the most expensive Rolex watch ever sold was the Paul Newman Daytona, which was purchased for $17.8 million during a 2017 auction. But typically, the average price of a Rolex falls anywhere between $7,000 to $12,000.

So what exactly accounts for such a stark contrast in pricing? Here’s everything you need to know.

What Are Rolex Watch Retail Prices by Type?

The best way to see which types of watches fall into your budget is by comparing and contrasting the most popular models.

Rolex Submariner

The Submariner Rolex is available in stainless steel, two-tone, and precious metals, with the price increasing with each one. The price range of the Submariner watches falls between $8,950 and $37,950.

This is one of the most classic Rolex designs that has an utterly recognizable dial and a classic watch face. If this is your first Rolex, this might be the one to go for.

Rolex GMT Master II

This is a higher-end Rolex that varies in price from around $11,000 to about $39,000, depending on the material and movements. The Pepsi and Batman chronograph watches within this design are some of the most sought-after Rolex watches to date and can be worth over 100% MSRP after being bought.

At the height of the Pepsi model’s popularity, that watch had a waiting list of years — upwards of 20. 

The price of the GMT varies depending on the material used to construct the piece itself.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

After introducing new dials and colors, the popularity of the Rolex Oystersteel watch skyrocketed in 2020. These are now worth even more pre-owned than they are worth brand new, ranging anywhere from $5,800 to $6,150 right from the Rolex store.

These watches are made of stainless steel, which explains their lower pricing point. And you can choose the color of the dial to best match your personality.

Rolex Daytona

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is one of the most appreciated Rolex watches in existence, and for that reason, it is also one of the most expensive variations. These start at around $14,500 and can go all the way up to $75,000 new.

These watches are produced in limited quantities. Their value appreciates upwards of 200% after being purchased — hence why one of them sold for over $17 million in 2017. But these are stunning pieces that you probably won’t want to part ways with, to begin with.

Rolex Datejust

Some might say this is the most iconic Rolex watch on the market, especially considering its versatility and design. These water-resistant chronometer wristwatches range from $7,200 to $14,800 brand new.

There are men’s and women’s references in this line, making it increasingly popular and accessible. The 41mm references tend to be most popular because of their fluted ceramic bezel options or smooth bezel options.

Rolex Sky-Dweller

The name of this watch just sounds fancy, and the price definitely matches. These range anywhere from $15,200 to $49,350. These used to only have two-tone and precious metal variations, but recently they introduced a stainless steel version. You can also get these luxury watches with a black dial or a blue dial.

This heightened their popularity, making these pre-owned Rolex Sky-Dwellers worth even more on the used market. So if you’re going to buy one, be sure to buy new.

Rolex Sea-Dweller

While the Submariner can be used at insane depths, the Sea-Dweller is more robust, allowing you to wear it at depths of up to 3,900 meters below sea level. This is a stunning feat, which also comes with an increase in price compared to the Submariner. These run between $12,950 and $17,000 MSRP.

Rolex Day Date (President)

If you only want a watch to be able to brag to your friends, this is the one for you. Rolex Day Dates start at a whopping $37,450 and can run as high as $60,000.

The difference in price here is mainly due to the type of material that each is made of. The lower-end references are made with solid yellow gold, whereas the platinum versions exist on the higher end of the spectrum. Like many Rolex models, this model is self-winding.

Rolex Yacht-Master

These vary in price tremendously due to the type of materials that can be used to make them. On the low end, they’ll run you around $11,600. But on the high end, these vintage Rolex watches can cost as much as $48,150.

Rolex Milgauss

This collection of steel watches is the smallest one that Rolex offers, with only one reference to choose from. So, you either need to love it and buy it right away or hate it and avoid it like the plague. The single design here runs for $9,150 MSRP.

Rolex Explorer

The Explorer and the popular Rolex Explorer II are extremely popular tool watches that are perfect if you love going on hikes or adventures. This collection allows you to pay lower prices for references without date or GMT complications. This wristwatch varies in price between $7,200 and $11,150, depending on which complication you choose.

Rolex Alternatives: Finest in Watchmaking

Rolex watches are iconic, but you can turn just as many heads without needing to take out a second mortgage on your home. 6 Ice has plenty of options for you to ice out your wrists without dropping too much on your next piece.

Our Rocketeer watches in white gold and yellow gold come in different colored dials to suit any occasion, just like those classic Rolex pieces. In particular, the Iced Rocketeer Watch White Gold Black Dial is a headline-making choice. Crafted with Swiss watchmaking techniques, the Rocketeer watches set the stage for something amazing. 

The only difference is you can choose between solid gold and gold plating. So if you’re on a strict budget, you can get your next favorite timepiece for as low as $399. 

Not to mention, every watch is backed by the 6 Ice lifetime guarantee, so you can be confident in the quality of your product every time you buy. If your watch breaks from normal wear and tear, we’ve got you covered.

Start your jewelry journey with the finest purveyors in hip-hop jewelry. Take a look at our entire collection of luxury watches and be the envy of your friends today.

Sources:

Stainless steel: The role of nickel | Nickel Institute

Precious Metals List | Learn More About Jewelry Metals Online | AGS

Platinum - Element information, properties and uses | RSC

Want a New Watch? Put Your Name Right Here | The New York Times

What you need to know about water resistance | The Watch Pages