Rolex 16030 vs 16234 vs 1601

[aminito]

Distinguished Rolex fans,
I intend to invest in either Rolex datejust 16030 or 16234 or 1601 with a budget of up to 4.5k. Which model would you recommend to invest in as I like to wear the watch for some time and then resell it. Also, what variation would you recommend for the watch. I like the blue or black dial but open to suggestions. Lastly, does it really matter to have a genuine or aftermarket jubilee bracelet when reselling?
I certainly appreciate your support.
Kind regards.

[Dan S]

I can tell you the specific differences between those references, or you can easily find that information yourself. But everyone has their own personal preferences, and I think it's up to you to decide which is the better "investment." And TBH, if you really think that a DJ is a good way to store wealth, you should probably take more time to learn and study the vintage Rolex market.

Obviously there is a substantial difference in value between an authentic and aftermarket jubilee bracelet.

[crowncollection]

Get as new as you can for the money if it is a daily wearer. 16234 maybe a stretch for that money.


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[TuRo]

Funnily enough, I’m the opposite with just about any watch (except the early 62xx Daytonas as bit thin/non oyster case too small/pushers flimsy…. so prefer later 6263/65).

Back to topic. My predilection is to get as old as you can eg pie pan for me always, an early dagger hand 1601/3 best, a wide boy great, non polished links 6251h great etc etc.

DJ is an outlier at moment where the earlier ones (except v rare early ones) are cheaper than later ones, not the case with most eg Subs, Explorer, Gmt, SD etc

For me the later ones are more versatile agreed and you get more for money (quick set/sapphire etc) as David says….but they just loose the charm for me….bit like a 16710 does over a 16750 GMT.

Ref your term you’re going to ‘invest’, Dans right they are not the model that garners unbridled gains, but in 2016 all the common dial 60/70/80s DJs were lurking around £2k - went to £4k in 2022 settled back at circa £3.3k now…bit glacial long term performance is that.

To illustrate investment performance of which The Daydate is worst Rolex, and the Datejust bit less:

(Using the aggregate material/dial/bracelet combo in price lists) if you took the 1984 price and applied interest/inflation (discounted cash flow) the average net present value of a DayDate will be 40% less than what you paid for it !!!!

While the Datejust just about squeaks above break-even !

[aminito]

Thank you for your detailed analysis, Rolex fans! Certainly appreciated. Now, i'm more hesitant knowing my little budget, unfortunately:-)

[aminito]

Thank you for your honest input! TBH, the DJ is the only model i could afford now:-(