Mastering the Art of ROLEX Shopping-The only ROLEX SHOPPING GUIDE you need. | chronos_man

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Get to know all the ROLEX models and the different options available to you with Chronos_man Ultimate ROLEX Shopping Guide.

In this post we will also dive into the history of all the Rolex watch models and their intense history, most that show Rolex's deep appreciation of great achievements of man in many fields.

Rolex is a world renowned swiss watch manufacturer and designer based in Geneva, Switzerlandfounded in 1905 by Hand Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London. A brand that has now gained worldwide recognition.

Their watches are known for their Precision, Meticulous Craftsmanship, Inovation, Durability and has since become a global leader and pioneer in the luxury watch market. Making Rolex a status symbol and a sound investment.

Their famous tagline is “A Crown for Every Achievement,” which perfectly encapsulates the brand’s philosophy and goes to show that they are very dedicated to celebrating milestones.

And not only have Rolex watches been worn by celebrities, politicians, and businesspeople for decades, but their iconic design is instantly recognisable worldwide. If you’re looking for a high-quality watch that will make you look and feel great, then a Rolex is a perfect choice.

Let's talk about material science, Rolex also developed a new alloy for its hairsprings called Parachrom, which is antimagnetic and offers improved resistance to shocks and temperature variations.

It also produced Cerachrom, a revolutionary type of ceramic material used for bezels and inserts that is both scratch-proof and fade-proof, this has been a huge achievement for Rolex.

Additionally, Rolex forges most of the metals used in its watches from inside its own in-house foundry to ensure the utmost quality, durability, and aesthetic beauty.

This includes their infamous 904L stell, an incredibly strong material with exceptional abilities like corrosion and pitting resitant, also known as (Oystersteel).

When it comes to their iconic watch straps, the watch straps on the models are usually either stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, or rose gold.

Important First-Time Buyer Tip:Don't buy a buss-down Rolex as you first watch, because when you do wan't to sell it, you will be forced to sell for a significantly lower price than what you spent on it.(Doing modifications on the watch like adding diamonds or changing the movement is only cool to you).

A factory set watch is any watch which has not been altered by any buyer or owner, regardless of whether it has been used or is brand new, can be considered factory-set if it holds all the original features that it had when it was first released. I'm not referring to "buss down" watches.

The watch prices that I have provided in this post will only cover factory-set models and original designs.

Most of these prices also reflect for the pre-owned watches. If you are looking for a brand new Rolex you must be aware that you can only get them from Rolex's official retailers and that can make you end up on a waiting list.

If you tried puting you name down with an approved Rolex dealership, they can sign you up to a waitinglist as long as 3, 5 or even 6 years.

That's why its wiser to get a pre-owned Rolex in excellent condition in the secondary market, that way you can add to your collection immediately.

Also read "Why a Pre-owned Rolex will sell for more than a brand new one".

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That away, let's dive into this incredible list of Rolex's timepieces that have captivated all kinds of watch collectors and Rolex aficionados all over the world, while maintaining a great reputation for this luxury watch brand.

The Rolex Submariner is a classic luxury dive watch known for its substantial water resistance and precision. The timepiece was first introduced in 1954 as the first watch to be waterproof to a depth of 100meters(330feet), today 300meters(1,000feet).

Originally designed for scuba divers, it has become a world renowned symbol of high style and luxury.

The Submariner’s famous design and unparalleled craftsmanship have made it one of the most coveted watches in the world.

Characterized by a Waterproof Oystercase, 60 minute bezel, Luminous markers, Oyster bracelet, just to name a few, the Submariner is not just waterproof, but also elegant enough to be worn every day.

Submariner models also have nicknames that align with the dial and bezel colours: GREEN(Kermit, Hulk & Starbuks), BLUE(Smurf).

Precious metals like Stainless Steel, 18K Yellow & White Gold are popular with the Submariner and also go to affect the price of each watch (a Steel Submariner will cost less than a 18Karat White Gold Submariner).

Submariner Pricing

Watch prices of the Rolex Submariner, can cost anywhere from $10,000 - $60,000.

The Rolex GMT Master is a famous watch beloved by pilots, thrill-seekers, and horology enthusiasts since the 1950s. The collection’s trademark feature is its GMT function, which allows wearers to easily keep track of two time zones at once via the use of a fourth “GMT” hand and a rotating 24-hour bezel. "GMT" in the name stands for Greenwich Mean Time, which was later replaced by Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), though the watch kept its name.

The GMT-Master wristwatch was originally designed in collaboration with the Pan American Airways and issued by the airline to their crews on long-haul flights. With their innovative dual time zone capabilities, these timepieces are the ideal companion for pilots and world travelers alike.

Although th GMT-Master was originally developed for pilots, the watch has since become a symbol of elegance and high style.

Also, the GMT Master models have nicknames that align with the bezel colours:

PEPSI(Red & Blue bezel), ROOT BEER, SPRITE(Black & Green bezel).

Precious metals like Stainless Steel, 18K Yellow & White Gold, Rose Gold are popular with the GMT Master and also go to affect the price of each watch.

GMT-Master Pricing

The prices of the GMT-Master, can cost anywhere from $14,000 - $110,000.

The Rolex Explorer was first released in 1953 and embodies the spirit of adventure and the perseverance that lies behind every feat. This Oyster Perpetual watch was named Explorer to celebrate the achievements of the mountaineers who had conquered Everest in 1953, Edmund Hillary and Tensing Norgay.

The Explorer is also the brand's original sports watch, and the model that set the foundation for the tool watches that would serve as the foundation for Rolex's now-legendary reputation.

The timepiece is made of corrosion-resistant materials, and is a robust tool watch designed for the most challenging conditions for anyone who wishes to face the elements and overcome the odds.

Unlike other sports watches like the Daytona and Submariner, the Explorer was not designed specifically for one type of sport or activity. Instead, it was a simple time-only watch with a highly-legible display, that was built to the highest possible standards and intended for the active individual.

The Rolex Explorer models are: (EXPLORER & EXPLORER - 2), come with subtle differences like the bezel, dial and the hour hand, and nicknames like the Polar and Steve Mcqeen.

Explorer Pricing

Prices of the Rolex Explorer, it can cost from $9,000 - $30,000.

The Rolex Daytona was introduced in 1963 and was designed to meet the demands of professional racing drivers. The name Daytona, refers to Daytona, Florida, where racing flourished in the early 20th century.

With its highly reliable chronograph and bezel with tachymetric scale, it allows drivers to perfectly measure average speeds up to 400 kilometres or miles per hour, as they choose.

It also has a very unique design, which includes a tachymeter-engraved bezel, a pair of chronograph pushers flanking the crown, and three counters on the dial, has remained mostly untouched over the years. Furthermore, its specific mechanical movement and robust assembly continue to set the norm for luxury watches.

Today, the Daytona is extensively viewed as one of the most appreciated and collectible timepieces in the world and is one of the most desirable watches in the world, the Daytona is a representation of luxury, style, and exclusivity.

Use of precious metals like Stainless Steel, Platinum, 18K Yellow, Rose & White Gold are popular with the Daytona and also go to affect the price of each watch.

High demand and low supply can lead to very expensive Daytona's, some rare models can even be sold in the range of $650,000. A good example is how scarcity played a massive role when the Paul Newman Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, became the most expensive watch ever sold at $17.8 million.

Daytona Pricing

The prices of the Rolex Daytona, can cost from $20,000 - $200,000.

Launched in 1992, the Yacht-Master was designed specifically for sailors and skippers. This regatta timer was developed as an homage to the world of watersport and was designed to be both elegant and functional. Not to mention that the Yacht-Master has seen a lot of Boat and Yacht races over the years.

With its timeless beauty and outstanding performance and 100meters water resistance, the Yacht-Master is a staple for any boating enthusiast.

This beautiful timepiece is equiped with a bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel which is made entirely from precious metal (gold or platinum) or fitted with a Cerachrom insert in high-tech ceramic.This functional bezel allows the wearer to calculate, for example, the sailing time between two buoys, and is also a key component in the model’s distinctive visual identity.

All Rolex Yacht-master models have a water resistance rating of 100 metres (330 ft) and a triple-locking winding crown system taken from Rolex's famous family of saturation diving watches.

Precious metals like Steel, 18K Gold, Titanium and Platinum are used on the Yacht-Master accompanied with Rolex's famous Oyster bracelet.

Yacht-Master Pricing

When it comes to the prices of the Rolex Yacht-Master, it can cost anywhere from $10,000 - $60,000.

Introduced in 1945, the Air-King symbolizes the privileged relationship between Rolex and flying during the golden age of aviation in the 1940s. At the time, the Air-King was created to meet the needs of the brave pilots of the British Royal Air Force during World War II. This was a testament to Rolex's commitment to precision and reliability, qualities that were crucial for aviation.

The watch is a staple of the brand’s impressive portfolio and one of the longest-produced models.

While the Air-King may not boast the same level of mainstream recognition as the iconic Submariner or Daytona, it offers a unique blend of understated elegance and exceptional functionality.

This timepiece has been a fixture on the wrists of some of the most renowned pilots and aviation experts in history, including Charles Douglas Bernard. And from its association with the aviation world, the Air-King, with its minimalist design, accurate timekeeping, time-only function, and robust build, became an entry-level watch of sorts for the brand.

The Air-King dial features a distinctive black with a combination of large 3, 6 and 9 numerals marking the hours and a prominent minute scale for navigational time readings.

Air-King Pricing

The prices of the Air-King, can cost anywhere from $5,000 - $13,000.

Launched in 1945, the Datejust is a horology icon being the first automatic self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch with a window displaying the date at 3 o'clock on the dial.

Since then, it has evolved into one of Rolex's most sought-after models, beloved for its classic design, versatility and sophistication. With a variety of sizes, materials, and dial options, there's a Rolex Datejust to suit any taste or lifestyle. Most of the recent Datejust's come with the Jubilee bracelet, adding a classy touch to the look and feel of the timepiece.

The Datejust models have nicknames that align with the bracelet and bezel:

(Presidential - bracelet & Thunderbird - Turn-O-Graphs).

Not only is it Rolex's oldest model line, but also the classic Datejust is Rolex’s best-selling model of all time.

Precious metals and stones like Stainless Steel, 18K Yellow, Rose & White Gold, Diamonds are popular with the Datejust.

Datejust Pricing

When it comes to the Datejust prices, they can cost anywhere from $5,000 - $60,000.

Introduced in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date, also known as the Rolex "President" is an iconic gold watch that has since been a symbol of success and class, and it continues to be a top choice among watch enthusiasts and investors today.

The Day-Date was the first watch to display the date as well as the day, spelled in full. Another specialty feature of the Day-Date is its dials made of decorative stones and diamonds in shimmering tones that evoke the atmosphere and meteorites.

It should be no surprise that Day-Date is a very expensive luxury watch since Rolex positions the Day-Date as its most prestigious timepiece.

Precious metals and stones like 18K Yellow, Rose & White Gold, Platinum & Diamonds are popular with the Day-Date.

The watch is also known as the Rolex President because several American Presidents have been known to own or wear the famous watch. A timepiece famous for its precision, endurance, and refined design, and is closely associated with success and prestige.

Being one of the most coveted and iconic timepieces and with its vast variety of dial colors, precious metals and presidential bracelets, you will most certainly find one Day-Date to add to your collection.

Day-Date Pricing

When it comes to the pricing of the Day-Date, it can cost anywhere from $16,000 - $60,000.

Launched in 1967, the Sea-Dweller was specifically designed for saturation diving.

Boasting a waterproof capacity of up to 1,220meters(4,000feet), the Sea-Dweller is also equipped with a "Helium escape valve" to gradually release internal pressure therefore avoiding an implosion within the rediculous sea depths.

Even with a gorgeous design, striking features and real-world functionality, this luxurious timepiece can precisely work under pressure, making it a must-have diver watch.

The Rolex DEEPSEA 'James Cameroon' was released to commemorate his solo historic dive into the Mariana Trench(the deepest part of the ocean). It's unique features being a waterproof capacity of 3,900meters(12,800feet) and a blue dial that fades into a deep black to signify the deep dark ocean.

With divers in mind, inovations like the Triplock system was introduced in 1970 to equip the Sea-Dweller, the model designed for professional deep-sea divers.

Its tough build, helium escape valve, and 60-minute diver’s bezel ensure the best performance even in the harshest environments making it a reliable tool for underwater adventures. With its iconic aesthetic and solid reliability, the Rolex Sea-Dweller remains a symbol of extreme exploration and precision engineering.

Precious metals like Titanium, Stainless Steel and sometimes Gold are used on the Sea-Dweller to withstand the harsh sea waters.

Unlike other watch brands, the Sea-Dweller is also a very affordable ultra-resistant dive watch.

Sea-Dweller Pricing

The Sea-Dweller, it can cost from $10,000 - $40,000.

Introduced in 2012 as a watch for Global Travellers, the Sky-Dweller is an exemplary timepiece that combines dual-time zone and annual calendar complications, and can distinguish between 30 and 31 day months. It is also fitted with the Saros annual calendar and the Ring Command system, which allows the wearer to keep the pace of changing time zones with one simple movement.

The Sky-Dweller also stands out as the most complicated Rolex watch for its time and date complications, other Rolex complications include the Chronograph and the GMT. But despite its complex functionality, the model remains remarkably easy to use.

While the GMT-Master collection was Rolex's original dual-time wristwatch developed specifically for pilots and airline crews, the Sky-Dweller's "Ring Command" rotatable bezel and annual calendar lets you keep track of time as you frequent across the world.

Precious metals like Stainless Steel, Gold and Platinum are used on the Sky-Dweller and also go to affect the price of each timepiece.

This timepiece has seen wrist's of famous actors like Will Smith, MMA wrestlers like Connor McGreggor, NBA greats like LeBron James and Michael Jordan, Tennis pro's like Rojer Federer, and even Music great DJ Khalid, all who love the Sky-Dweller.

The Sky-Dweller is a beautiful watch, with revolutionary design that blends to perfection mechanical sophistication and ease of use.

Sky-Dweller Pricing

Sky-Dweller prices can cost anywhere from $20,000 - $40,000.

Introduced in 1956 and designed to resist magnetic fields, the Milgauss allows for accurate timekeeping even in one of the most demanding environments.

The name Milgauss is a word created by Rolex, Mil comes from Mille, French for 1000, and Gauss, a unit of measurement of magnetic fields. The Milgauss is a watch designed by Rolex to withstand high levels of electromagnetism, originally designed for scientists and other professionals working in magnetic environments.

The 1950s saw a rapid growth in technology and science, exposing people to magnetic fields at work, and causing damage to watches. Therefore, this caused the birth of the Milgauss.

Its resistance to magnetic interference, stems from a shield inside the case made of ferromagnetic alloys, which protects the movement. Milgauss is the fourth tool watch made by Rolex. The first three are the Submariner, the GMT Master and the Explorer.

With its signature lightning bolt hand and unique design set options, this famous Rolex is a testament to the brand’s devotion to innovation and high style.

The Rolex Milgauss is a fascinating luxury watch that brings together excellent craftsmanship and groundbreaking technology.

With its distinctive lightning bolt-shaped hand on most models, impeccable craftsmanship and versatile stainless steel finish, the Rolex Milgauss is a classic in the eyes of watch aficionados.

Most Migauss watches will be made of Stainless Steel, giving them a excellent reliability combined with superior durability.

Milgauss Pricing

The prices of the Milgauss, can cost anywhere from $9,000 - $16,000.

Released in 1968 the Rolex Cellini collection takes its name from the famed Italian goldsmith and sculptor, Benvenuto Cellini. The name was chosen for Rolex’s collection of refined and often gem-set dress watches as a means to celebrate the elegant lines and impeccable craftsmanship of the artist’s works.

It has always been known for its non-Oyster case design. If you’re familiar with contemporary Rolex, you’ll also be familiar with its build quality, and with more polished surfaces, intricate print and especially with the guilloche dial, the brand’s almost clinical attention to detail really gets to shine with the Cellini.

The Rolex Cellini collection was updated in 2014 and given a modern dress watch design. All current-production Cellini watches come in 39mm cases, made of either Platinum, 18k white gold or Everose gold, Rolex's patented rose gold alloy.

The Cellini models have nicknames that align with the dial or case:

(Moonphase,Time, Dual Time, Danaos & Date).

Cellini Pricing

When it comes to the prices of the Cellini, it can cost anywhere from $7,000 - $35,000.

Launched in 1926, the Oyster Perpetual is the brand’s most accessible, entry-level watch. Because it can be styled in dressy or casual environments it is often seen as the perfect ‘one-watch’ for new collectors.

The "Oyster" name comes from an oyster, sealed keeping the bivalves closed keeping ocean water in. Of course, for a Rolex Oyster, the opposite is the goal, sealing the movement keeping water and dust out. This "Perpetual" movement uses a weight to gently wind the watch as it is being worn on the wrist, and thus the word ‘Perpetual’ was added as the watch could be perpetually wound.

Each Rolex wristwatch that has "Oyster Perpetual" symbol, this certifies that the watch has a screw-down caseback that is water resistant and a self-winding movement that is powered by the motion of the wrist.

The Oyster Perpetual has always been a wearable model, blending the lines between a sports watch and a dress watch. Today’s modern Oyster Perpetual collection features over 30 different variations and a stunning variety of dial colors.

The Oyster Perpetual is made of precious metals like Gold, Stainless Steel and Platinum.

With a vast range of case sizes, dial colors, and material options to choose from, the Oyster Perpetual series offers a versatile range of watches to cater to every individual's lifestyle and horologists.

Oyster Perpetual Pricing

Prices of the Oyster Perpetual, can cost anywhere from $3,000 - $12,000.

A Rolex watch is an internationally recognized status symbol that is synonymous with excellence, success, and exclusivity. Although Rolex doesn't announce how many watches they make in a year, the most widely acceptable number of watches they produce is roughly 1,000,000 annually.

Rolex has one of the most dedicated horologist's on the planet. Everything's extremely well done. The dial furniture, casework, hands, overall fit and finish, everything is absolutely immaculate and really sets a standard for build quality and quality of execution in luxury watchmaking.

Yes, you expect that at this price point, and yes, you expect it from Rolex, but given how seldom luxury watches really deliver in this respect it's nice to see anyway.

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You can also read "Cristiano Ronaldo's Dazzling Watch Collection".

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