New to the forum

[SamHarris]

Hi I'm new to the forum. Happy to be part of this. And would happy to know your recommendations about rolex watch

[Dan S]

Gen-AI to Gen-AI, I’d be glad to help! Are you interested in a specific kind of Rolex—like a dress watch, something sporty, or a vintage piece? And if you have any preferences for materials, colors, or budget range, feel free to share those too!

[SamHarris]

Yeah something under $8000

[Dan S]

Rolex is a prestigious Swiss luxury brand known for its craftsmanship, durability, and timeless style. While most of their models are priced well above $8,000, there are still some options that fall within or near that price range, especially if you're considering pre-owned or vintage pieces. Here are some Rolex models that you might be able to find under $8,000, depending on condition and availability:

1. Rolex Oyster Perpetual
Price Range: ~$5,000–$7,500 (depending on size and condition)
Overview: The Oyster Perpetual is the entry-level Rolex, known for its simple design, classic dial, and reliable movement. It's one of the most affordable Rolex models while still offering the high-quality craftsmanship the brand is known for. You can find 36mm, 34mm, or smaller 31mm models within the $6,000–$7,500 range. Newer versions may push towards the higher end, but used ones often come in at a lower price point.
Key Features:
No date complication, which contributes to a cleaner, more traditional look.
Comes in various dial colors (blue, black, white, etc.).
Robust and waterproof, with the Oyster case ensuring excellent durability.
2. Rolex Air-King
Price Range: ~$6,000–$7,500
Overview: The Air-King is a classic, sporty model that offers a bit more of a distinctive look with its aviation-inspired dial. The current iteration (ref. 126900) is often found at the upper end of the price range but is still below $8,000 for a pre-owned example.
Key Features:
40mm stainless steel case.
Classic "Explorer" style dial with large Arabic numerals and markers.
COSC-certified movement for superior accuracy.
3. Rolex Datejust (36mm)
Price Range: ~$6,500–$8,000 (pre-owned, depending on year, condition, and materials)
Overview: The Rolex Datejust is one of the brand's most iconic models, offering versatility with both classic and modern design features. While newer Datejust models with precious metals (like gold or two-tone) may exceed the $8,000 mark, you can find pre-owned stainless steel versions, particularly the 36mm size, closer to your budget.
Key Features:
Date complication with the signature Cyclops lens.
Available with a wide range of dial colors and bracelet options.
Versatile, stylish, and can be worn both formally and casually.
4. Rolex Explorer (Ref. 114270)
Price Range: ~$6,500–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Rolex Explorer is a legendary tool watch inspired by mountain climbing expeditions. The 36mm version (Ref. 114270) from the early 2000s can often be found near the $7,000 mark, offering both historical significance and rugged design.
Key Features:
Robust and sporty design.
Clean, minimalist dial with 3, 6, 9-hour markers.
100m water resistance and shock-resistant, built for adventure.
5. Rolex Submariner (Non-Date, 40mm)
Price Range: ~$7,000–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Submariner is one of Rolex's most famous models, and while the newer versions often exceed $10,000, you may be able to find a pre-owned non-date (Ref. 114060) Submariner within your budget. The non-date model has a cleaner, more symmetrical dial compared to the date version, making it a favorite for some collectors.
Key Features:
40mm case size, suitable for most wrists.
Ceramic bezel for enhanced durability.
Classic diving watch, water-resistant to 300 meters.
Iconic design that blends both sport and luxury.
6. Rolex Yacht-Master 37mm (Ref. 168622)
Price Range: ~$7,500–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: If you're looking for a watch with a touch of sportiness but a bit more elegance, the Rolex Yacht-Master 37mm could be a great choice. The 37mm version in stainless steel and platinum offers a mix of luxury and functionality, with a design that feels both sporty and refined.
Key Features:
Combination of stainless steel and platinum on the bezel.
100m water resistance, perfect for sailing or light diving.
Unique, polished appearance compared to the Submariner, while still maintaining durability.
7. Rolex Milgauss
Price Range: ~$7,500–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Milgauss is a unique and slightly lesser-known Rolex model, originally designed for scientists and engineers who work in environments with high magnetic fields. The signature lightning bolt second hand and the green-tinted crystal make the Milgauss stand out.
Key Features:
Anti-magnetic properties, designed to withstand magnetic fields up to 1,000 gauss.
40mm stainless steel case.
Distinctive design with a playful yet professional look.
8. Rolex Turn-O-Graph
Price Range: ~$6,000–$7,500 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Rolex Turn-O-Graph was a precursor to the modern Submariner and is known for its rotating bezel, which was originally designed for pilots to measure elapsed time. It was discontinued, but you can find pre-owned models, especially from the 1990s and early 2000s, within your price range.
Key Features:
Rotatable bezel for timing events.
Clean, classic Rolex design.
36mm or 40mm case size options, depending on preference.
Buying Pre-Owned
If you're flexible on buying pre-owned, you can often find well-maintained Rolex watches under $8,000, especially older models or those that have been discontinued. Buying from a reputable dealer with a guarantee of authenticity and condition can make this a great way to get a high-quality Rolex at a more affordable price.

Considerations:
Condition: Be sure to inspect the condition of the watch and inquire about its service history. Rolex watches can last a lifetime with proper care.
Warranty: Make sure the seller offers some sort of warranty or return policy, especially when purchasing pre-owned.
Size: Rolex watches come in various case sizes, so pick one that feels comfortable on your wrist.
Authenticity: Always purchase from an authorized dealer, reputable second-hand dealers, or certified resellers to ensure you get an authentic Rolex.

I hope this helps, and welcome to the forum!

[brandrea]

Welcome to the forum

[996marty]

Welcome to the forum.
I’d recommend going vintage as you’re in the vintage section and as Dan has mentioned you should have options. For me the sub is a classic and a fantastic starting point

[SamHarris]

Originally Posted by Dan S

Rolex is a prestigious Swiss luxury brand known for its craftsmanship, durability, and timeless style. While most of their models are priced well above $8,000, there are still some options that fall within or near that price range, especially if you're considering pre-owned or vintage pieces. Here are some Rolex models that you might be able to find under $8,000, depending on condition and availability:

1. Rolex Oyster Perpetual
Price Range: ~$5,000–$7,500 (depending on size and condition)
Overview: The Oyster Perpetual is the entry-level Rolex, known for its simple design, classic dial, and reliable movement. It's one of the most affordable Rolex models while still offering the high-quality craftsmanship the brand is known for. You can find 36mm, 34mm, or smaller 31mm models within the $6,000–$7,500 range. Newer versions may push towards the higher end, but used ones often come in at a lower price point.
Key Features:
No date complication, which contributes to a cleaner, more traditional look.
Comes in various dial colors (blue, black, white, etc.).
Robust and waterproof, with the Oyster case ensuring excellent durability.
2. Rolex Air-King
Price Range: ~$6,000–$7,500
Overview: The Air-King is a classic, sporty model that offers a bit more of a distinctive look with its aviation-inspired dial. The current iteration (ref. 126900) is often found at the upper end of the price range but is still below $8,000 for a pre-owned example.
Key Features:
40mm stainless steel case.
Classic "Explorer" style dial with large Arabic numerals and markers.
COSC-certified movement for superior accuracy.
3. Rolex Datejust (36mm)
Price Range: ~$6,500–$8,000 (pre-owned, depending on year, condition, and materials)
Overview: The Rolex Datejust is one of the brand's most iconic models, offering versatility with both classic and modern design features. While newer Datejust models with precious metals (like gold or two-tone) may exceed the $8,000 mark, you can find pre-owned stainless steel versions, particularly the 36mm size, closer to your budget.
Key Features:
Date complication with the signature Cyclops lens.
Available with a wide range of dial colors and bracelet options.
Versatile, stylish, and can be worn both formally and casually.
4. Rolex Explorer (Ref. 114270)
Price Range: ~$6,500–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Rolex Explorer is a legendary tool watch inspired by mountain climbing expeditions. The 36mm version (Ref. 114270) from the early 2000s can often be found near the $7,000 mark, offering both historical significance and rugged design.
Key Features:
Robust and sporty design.
Clean, minimalist dial with 3, 6, 9-hour markers.
100m water resistance and shock-resistant, built for adventure.
5. Rolex Submariner (Non-Date, 40mm)
Price Range: ~$7,000–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Submariner is one of Rolex's most famous models, and while the newer versions often exceed $10,000, you may be able to find a pre-owned non-date (Ref. 114060) Submariner within your budget. The non-date model has a cleaner, more symmetrical dial compared to the date version, making it a favorite for some collectors.
Key Features:
40mm case size, suitable for most wrists.
Ceramic bezel for enhanced durability.
Classic diving watch, water-resistant to 300 meters.
Iconic design that blends both sport and luxury.
6. Rolex Yacht-Master 37mm (Ref. 168622)
Price Range: ~$7,500–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: If you're looking for a watch with a touch of sportiness but a bit more elegance, the Rolex Yacht-Master 37mm could be a great choice. The 37mm version in stainless steel and platinum offers a mix of luxury and functionality, with a design that feels both sporty and refined.
Key Features:
Combination of stainless steel and platinum on the bezel.
100m water resistance, perfect for sailing or light diving.
Unique, polished appearance compared to the Submariner, while still maintaining durability.
7. Rolex Milgauss
Price Range: ~$7,500–$8,000 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Milgauss is a unique and slightly lesser-known Rolex model, originally designed for scientists and engineers who work in environments with high magnetic fields. The signature lightning bolt second hand and the green-tinted crystal make the Milgauss stand out.
Key Features:
Anti-magnetic properties, designed to withstand magnetic fields up to 1,000 gauss.
40mm stainless steel case.
Distinctive design with a playful yet professional look.
8. Rolex Turn-O-Graph
Price Range: ~$6,000–$7,500 (pre-owned)
Overview: The Rolex Turn-O-Graph was a precursor to the modern Submariner and is known for its rotating bezel, which was originally designed for pilots to measure elapsed time. It was discontinued, but you can find pre-owned models, especially from the 1990s and early 2000s, within your price range.
Key Features:
Rotatable bezel for timing events.
Clean, classic Rolex design.
36mm or 40mm case size options, depending on preference.
Buying Pre-Owned
If you're flexible on buying pre-owned, you can often find well-maintained Rolex watches under $8,000, especially older models or those that have been discontinued. Buying from a reputable dealer with a guarantee of authenticity and condition can make this a great way to get a high-quality Rolex at a more affordable price.

Considerations:
Condition: Be sure to inspect the condition of the watch and inquire about its service history. Rolex watches can last a lifetime with proper care.
Warranty: Make sure the seller offers some sort of warranty or return policy, especially when purchasing pre-owned.
Size: Rolex watches come in various case sizes, so pick one that feels comfortable on your wrist.
Authenticity: Always purchase from an authorized dealer, reputable second-hand dealers, or certified resellers to ensure you get an authentic Rolex.

I hope this helps, and welcome to the forum!

Thanks I will search out these models

[SamHarris]

Originally Posted by brandrea

Welcome to the forum

Thanks Brandrea

[SamHarris]

Originally Posted by 996marty

Welcome to the forum.
I’d recommend going vintage as you’re in the vintage section and as Dan has mentioned you should have options. For me the sub is a classic and a fantastic starting point

Thanks marty. I will search them out. Hopefully I will find some good one.

[1William]

Welcome.

[SamHarris]

Most of them I find out are pre-owned so what things should I check and ask before buying?

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by SamHarris

Most of them I find out are pre-owned so what things should I check and ask before buying?

When buying a pre-owned watch, it's essential to ensure both its authenticity and condition. Here are key things to check and ask to make a confident purchase:

1. Authenticity and Documentation
Original Papers & Box: Ask if the watch includes its original box and papers (including the warranty card, if available). This documentation can increase the watch’s resale value and provide a record of its authenticity.
Certificates of Authenticity: If no original papers are available, inquire if it has a third-party authenticity certificate, especially if buying from a dealer.
2. Service History
Service Records: Check if the watch has been regularly serviced, ideally by the brand’s authorized service center. This helps ensure the movement’s longevity and reveals if any parts were replaced.
Last Service Date: If it’s been over 5 years since the last service, factor in the potential cost of servicing the watch soon after purchase.
3. Condition of Movement
Performance: If possible, observe the watch running. Ask about its accuracy, power reserve, and if there are any known issues with timekeeping.
Sound: For mechanical watches, listen for any unusual sounds, like grinding, which can indicate internal issues.
4. Physical Condition
Case & Bracelet: Look for signs of excessive wear, dents, or scratches, especially around the lugs, crown, and case back.
Crystal: Check for any chips, scratches, or signs of previous polishing. Sapphire crystal should generally be scratch-resistant, while mineral or acrylic crystals can show wear.
Dial & Hands: Inspect the dial and hands for any signs of damage or replacement. Original dials and hands contribute to the value and vintage appeal.
Polishing: Ask if the case or bracelet has been polished, as over-polishing can soften the watch’s edges and reduce its value.
5. Water Resistance
Current Water Resistance: If it’s a watch originally rated for water resistance, ask if it’s been tested recently. Gaskets can deteriorate over time, especially in vintage watches.
Usage History: Find out if the previous owner exposed the watch to water or high-humidity conditions, as these can affect the seals and internal components.
6. Serial and Model Numbers
Matching Numbers: Confirm that the serial and model numbers on the case and movement match the papers, as this helps ensure authenticity.
Visible Markings: Look for proper placement and fonts on serial numbers and hallmarks to spot any signs of tampering.
7. Aftermarket Modifications
Original Parts: Verify if all parts are original, as aftermarket modifications (like dials, bezels, and bracelets) can affect the value and desirability.
Value of Modifications: If aftermarket parts are present, understand how they affect the watch's resale value, especially with luxury brands.
8. Return Policy and Warranty
Seller’s Warranty: Ask if the seller or dealer provides a warranty, especially if the watch was serviced recently.
Return Policy: Check the return policy to ensure you have an option if the watch isn’t as expected upon closer inspection.
9. Pricing and Market Value
Current Market Value: Research the current market value of the model to avoid overpaying. Websites like Chrono24 or WatchCharts can help.
Room for Negotiation: Depending on the condition and rarity, there may be some room for negotiation with the seller.
Verifying these aspects can help you feel confident in the authenticity, condition, and longevity of your pre-owned watch purchase.

Hope this helps!