Cheapest Rolex - Prices & Costs

What makes Rolex a superlative chronometer?

Few things are more recognized around the globe as a symbol of luxury than Rolex watches, with their five-pointed crowns on the dial. Since its founding in 1905 by German entrepreneur Hans Wilsdorf, the company has established itself as the world's most famous watch brand. There's good reason for this; after all, the brand and its famous wristwatches stand for uncompromising style, precision, reliability, and, last but not least, prestige. With a Rolex, you definitely get watchmaking art par excellence.

This also means that there is no such thing as a "cheapest Rolex watch." It's also currently difficult to find Rolex watches at regular prices from a dealer. However, the dream of owning a Rolex can still be fulfilled, for example, with models that are comparatively low in price. Those looking for the cheapest Rolex are well advised to consider entry-level models or used watches. In this article, we present such entry-level models and suitable alternatives.

How much does the cheapest Rolex cost?

As arguably the most popular luxury watch brand in the world, you can expect a correspondingly high price for the cheapest Rolex watches. Even for "cheap" Rolex watches, you usually have to pay several thousand euros per model; prices of up to 10,000 euros are absolutely no longer uncommon. Of course, it always depends on the model: The Rolex Submariner is still around 17,000 euros, but the Oyster Perpetual (28 mm) at around 6,900 euros and the Lady Datejust at around 7,300 euros are significantly lower and thus fall more into the "cheapest Rolex" category. However, buying a Rolex doesn't have to mean a loss of money. Since the cheapest Rolex watches have experienced significant appreciation in recent years, they not only have sentimental value for lovers of the brand but are also perfectly suited as a long-term investment.

The best affordable Rolex watches & models

Anyone who can do without Rolex watches made of gold or diamonds will certainly be happy with entry-level models at a lower price. All of the brand's watches are high-quality and elegant. The examples of affordable Rolex watches we present below range from simple to unusual – each model offers timeless style and the highest possible precision for your wrist. Because one thing is clear: Even the absolute cheapest Rolex is still an eye-catcher.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Rolex itself has described the Oyster Perpetual as the "quintessential Oyster." It is considered an ideal entry into the world of Rolex watches, as it offers many of the brand's best technical advantages despite its comparatively low price. The watch is available in various case sizes, all of which are pressure-resistant to 10 bar thanks to the Twinlock crown with its double sealing system. Buyers can also choose the dial color. Other features include the solid stainless steel Oyster case, the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal cover, and a certified in-house caliber. The Oyster Perpetual starts at €5,450 for the 28-millimeter model; the 2020 version with a 41-millimeter case diameter adds an additional €1,000.

Rolex Datejust 41

Whether for a business event or a casual outing, this watch is truly made for every occasion. This classic wristwatch with its timeless design debuted in 1945. The special feature of this Rolex: the Cyclopean magnifying glass, developed in 1953, directly above the date display, which makes reading the date easier by magnifying it two and a half times. The watch case is available in both stainless steel and various precious metal bicolor versions. The latter features a fluted signature bezel and a dial decorated with radial cuts. The Rolex Datejust 41 with the in-house automatic caliber 3235 (naturally, with in-house certification as always) is available in a simpler stainless steel version with an Oyster bracelet for around 7,000 euros.

Rolex Explorer

With this model, we have a truly iconic watch on our list. So robust and precise that it accompanied Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary on the first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953. But you don't have to hike into the mountains to appreciate the merits of this watch. The Rolex Explorer with its 39-millimeter case was launched in 2010 and was equipped with the 3132 automatic movement and Chromalight lume. The timepiece's high-contrast black dial also ensures excellent legibility. In 2021, the case of the Rolex Explorer was reduced to 36 millimeters and equipped with the automatic caliber 3230, which increased the power reserve to 70 hours. The steel version of the Oyster Perpetual Explorer is available for around 7,000 euros; the price for the two-tone version is 11,500 euros.

Rolex Air King

This watch, as the name suggests, is a tribute to aviation; a reminder of the aviation pioneers of the 1930s, for whom the Air-King series was created. The striking numerals and the Mercedes-Benz hand are typical of this model. Together with the inverted triangle at twelve o'clock and the white numerals on the black dial, the Rolex Air-King is reminiscent of classic pilot's watches, without neglecting its clearly recognizable Rolex roots in design. Its inner workings are also typical Rolex: the automatic caliber 3230 with a 70-hour power reserve and enhanced magnetic field protection. The Air-King is available for around 7,300 euros.

Rolex Submariner 41

Here we are dealing with an icon that has achieved worldwide fame. Those who love adventure will fall in love with this watch. When it was launched in 1953, it was the only wristwatch water-resistant to 100 meters. A true vintage pioneer, its interior is perfectly suited for outdoor activities. Since then, the case of the Rolex Submariner has grown to 41 millimeters. The timepiece is water-resistant up to a pressure of 30 bar; good legibility is ensured even underwater by the Chromalight luminous material. There is no date display on this watch; however, its fans believe it doesn't need one—after all, divers rarely need to be able to read the current date. Those who want to dive into the water in style should budget for prices of around 8,000 euros.

Rolex Milgauss

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Milgauss celebrated its 65th anniversary in 2021. The watch was originally designed for engineers and technicians, and this is evident in its inner workings. The chronometer's patented magnetic shield was designed to protect researchers from strong magnetic fields. Effective up to 1,000 gauss—hence the watch's name, which is derived from the French mille (thousand). The Milgauss remains one of the brand's most robust watches, still worn by scientists because of its unmatched reliability. Priced at around 7,000 euros, the Rolex, with its iconic orange lightning bolt second hand on the dial, is one of the more affordable entry-level models.

Is there an affordable alternative to Rolex watches?

With prices running into the thousands of euros, "affordable" might not be the first attribute you associate with Rolex watches. However, there are also luxury watches from other brands that are on the same level in terms of design and technology. Good examples can be found from manufacturers like Tudor, Omega, and Zenith. If you're looking for good entry-level watches, these brands are also highly recommended.

Rolex Homage

The Hommage models are certainly an exciting alternative to the regular Rolex watches. For those who don't consider the crown and the Rolex logo a must-have, there's a wide range of watch designs to choose from, which can certainly make starting your own watch collection a breeze. The Swiss watch brand Gigandet has made a name for itself with detailed Rolex replicas. The Hommages are priced under €200.

Buy used Rolex watches

Their quality predestines Rolex watches to be worn for a very long time. Their robust quality makes even well-maintained used models sought-after collector's items. In addition, there are often long waiting times for certain Rolex watches, which can be easily avoided. Anyone looking for a wide variety at attractive prices should definitely consider the market for vintage models to find the best value Rolex.

Conclusion - is it worth buying a cheap Rolex?

Whether new, used, or vintage, you can never really call a Rolex watch the cheapest. The Swiss manufacturer crafts its luxury watches with attention to detail and crowns its timepieces with its in-house COSC certification. Unusual complications are rare; instead, the chronometers from this traditional company boast absolute quality in terms of technology and design – in every single model. Waiting times for a genuine Rolex watch can sometimes stretch to years; however, those opting for an entry-level model like the examples in our article or similar alternatives can potentially shorten this wait. While these aren't necessarily gem-studded or gold Rolex watches, even the cheapest Rolex models certainly deliver top technical and stylish performance. Even on international markets, there's a good chance of finding a Rolex priced below the regular retail price. We wish you the best of luck in your search!