“No more than eight thousand.” That’s the answer I always get when I ask a prospective vintage Rolex buyer what their price range is. Always Eight. Five isn’t enough to work with, and ten – well that’s just so… ten.
I’ve helped so many of my friends and colleagues buy watches that are within the $8,000 range that I thought I’d share some of my recommendations with you.
Take advice from a guy with a roll of mistakes he bought at the airport on a layover, me.
Obviously, you’re not making a mistake if you buy that new Panerai Luminor you’ve had your eye on, but it is a mistake if you buy one and then wish you’d been turned on to the unmistakable cool of a vintage Rolex earlier. Take it from a guy with a roll of lessons he bought at the airport on a layover.
Here are five vintage Rolex references under $8,000, and why I believe they’re the best buys on the market.
SEE ALSO: Here's a closer look at why the Rolex Submariner is the ultimate luxury sport watch
ROLEX Explorer I Reference 1016
The Explorer, first introduced in 1953, is as classic a Rolex as is still being made. The 1016 was in production for more than 25 years, which means that many great examples are still in circulation. Its design DNA still lives on in the newest iteration, released a few years ago. It’s understated, laid back, and unlike a brand new Submariner, it’s not an obvious choice, which I always find a bonus. Add a nylon NATO strap in place of the steel bracelet for the finishing touch.
Price: $6,000 to $7,000
ROLEX Datejust Reference 1601 in 18K Gold
I’m certainly no great oracle of fashion (a simple Google search will make that clear) but vintage gold watches are exempt from the criticism of wearing something “cheesy.” Something about the gold mixture 30 years ago was more a subdued brassy color than the bright luster of new 18k watches. And with the price of gold where it is, you’ve got two investments in one. Women have taken to wearing the gold Datejust in recent years, but it’s still very much a man’s watch.
Price: $7,500 to $8,000
ROLEX Submariner Reference 5513
The 5513 is another reference that was produced for many years, and with the introduction of the new model Submariners this year, this no-date dive watch has just gotten one revision older, making it that much more distinguishable from the all-too-standard issue modern day Sub. Shop around and find one with aged luminous markers to really stand out from the crowd.
Price: $5,500 to $7,000
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