As a luxury timepiece, Rolex is one of the most influential names in the industry. Loved for its precision, elegance, and status, Rolex has been the watchmaker of choice for explorers, celebrities, and connoisseurs alike for over a century. But what truly sets Rolex apart is its collection of iconic models that have stood the test of time. So, let’s explore the ten most popular Rolex watches.
Rolex Daytona (Steel)
The Rolex Daytona in steel is a legendary timepiece, often with waiting lists exceeding ten years. Once a slow seller, it’s now a hot commodity, fetching over double the retail price. Known for its ties to driving and speed, this watch, with its three iconic sub-dials, is a must-have for any serious collector.
Rolex Submariner (Steel)
Widely adored by watch enthusiasts, the Rolex Submariner in steel with a black dial and bezel is a true icon. Introduced in 1953, this diver’s watch broke new ground as the first to be waterproof up to 100 meters. While many owners today might only expose it to a splash in the shower, its legacy as a pioneering deep-sea timepiece endures.
Rolex Air-King
The Rolex Air-King’s legacy dates back to 1945 when Reference 4925 was launched. This pioneering model, featuring the classic Oyster case, marked the beginning of a watch designed to pay homage to the British Royal Air Force pilots of WWII. Its design from those early days set the stage for what would become an honor to aviation.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual
This watch blends the brand’s founding legacy with modern simplicity, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear. The streamlined design may not include the bells and whistles of more expensive models. Still, its lightness and practicality, combined with a wide range of colors, ensure it fits effortlessly into any style.
Rolex Sea-Dweller
Built for the deep, the Rolex Sea-Dweller is a diver’s watch. The standard model dives to 1,220 meters, while the Deepsea variant goes to 3,900 meters. The 2022 Deepsea Challenge takes it even further, reaching an astounding 11,000 meters. This is engineered for the most extreme diving conditions as part of Rolex’s Professional line.
Rolex Yacht-Master
The Rolex Yacht-Master is where elegance meets precision on the high seas. Its graduated bidirectional bezel lets you measure time intervals with ease, while the choice of bezels—solid platinum, 18k gold, or matte black Cerachrom ceramic—adds a touch of luxury.
Rolex GMT-Master II (Pepsi)
The Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi” turns heads with its vibrant red and blue bezel, reminiscent of the classic soda logo. This iconic timepiece combines a bold design with a sophisticated dual-hand system, which is ideal for globe-trotters who need to keep track of multiple time zones.
Rolex Submariner 11619 (The Smurf)
Known as “The Smurf,” it stands out with its blue dial and matching Cerachrom bezel. Since its discontinuation, this model has surged in collectability, and its pre-owned prices are climbing fast. If you’re looking for a distinctive piece with a touch of exclusivity, “The Smurf” is making waves in the world of Rolex.
Rolex Submariner 116610LV (The Hulk)
Launched in 2010, the Rolex Submariner 116610LV features a bold green ceramic bezel and platinum inserts. Sporting the same 40mm MAXI case as the 116610LN Date, “The Hulk” has several upgrades from its predecessor, the “Kermit,” which makes it a good choice for collectors.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in Gold
Initially less popular, this model gained fame through sports and movie stars. The gold model, featuring a bold black and gold diamond-set dial and Chromalight display, delivers a touch of luxury with a more accessible waitlist than its stainless steel counterparts.
