When it comes to luxury watches, Rolex is a name that is synonymous with quality, style, and prestige. Over the years, Rolex has produced some of the most expensive and sought-after watches in the world, coveted by watch collectors and enthusiasts alike.
From the iconic Rolex Oyster to the water-resistant Rolex GMT Master II, the brand has a rich history of producing exceptional timepieces that have become synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Some of the most expensive Rolex watches ever sold at auction include Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona, Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT Master, and Steve McQueen’s 1967 Rolex Submariner.
These watches are highly sought after by collectors and can fetch millions of dollars at auction. The Rolex Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster is another example of an expensive Rolex watch, featuring an exotic dial with Arabic and baton hour markers, a black sigma dial, and a white gold case. Whether you’re a watch collector or simply appreciate the finer things in life, a Rolex Day-Date or a Rolex Submariner is a timeless investment that is sure to impress. So, drive carefully and invest in a Rolex today!
| No | Most Expensive Rolex | Price |
| 1 | Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona | $17.8 million |
| 2 | Rolex Daytona Reference 626 Unicorn (1971) | $5.9 million |
| 3 | Rolex Bao Dai | $5.1 million |
| 4 | Antimagnetique Reference 4113 (1942) | $2.5 million |
| 5 | Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT-Master |
$1,952,000
|
| 6 | Eric Clapton’s Rolex “Oyster Albino” Cosmograph Daytona |
$1,400,000
|
| 7 | Jack Nicklaus Rolex Day-Date | $1,220,000 |
| 8 | Rolex GMT Master II Ice | $485,350 |
| 9 | James Bond Rolex Submariner (1972) | $365,000 |
| 10 | Rolex Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster | $277,850 |
Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona
Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona is the most expensive rolex in the world. Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona is a highly sought-after vintage watch that gained its fame from the famous actor and race car driver, Paul Newman. The watch was originally released in the 1960s but gained its iconic status in the 1980s when Newman was spotted wearing it in public.
Newman’s Rolex Daytona features a white dial with black subdials and red hour markers, which set it apart from other Daytona models. It also has an art deco font for the numerals and a tachymeter bezel.
In 2017, Newman’s personal Rolex Daytona sold for $17.8 million at auction, making it the most expensive watch ever sold. The proceeds went to the Newman’s Own Foundation, a charity organization founded by Paul Newman that supports various causes such as education, the environment, and social welfare.
Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona remains a symbol of the actor’s legacy and a highly coveted watch for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Rolex Daytona Reference 626 Unicorn (1971)
Rolex Daytona Reference 626 Unicorn (1971) is the 2nd most expensive rolex in the world. The Rolex Daytona Reference 626 Unicorn is a rare and highly sought-after timepiece among collectors. Made in 1971, the watch features a white gold case and a stunning black dial with contrasting white gold hour markers.
What makes this particular watch so unique is its nickname, the “Unicorn.” The reason for this is that it is believed to be the only Daytona ever made with a white gold case and black dial combination.
The watch is powered by a 727 calibre movement, which is known for its accuracy and reliability. It also has a chronograph function, allowing the wearer to time events with precision.
Due to its rarity, the Rolex Daytona Reference 626 Unicorn is highly valuable and is often sold for millions of dollars at auction. It remains a symbol of luxury and exceptional craftsmanship in the world of haute horlogerie.
Rolex Bao Dai
Rolex Bao Dai is the 3rd most expensive rolex in the world. The Rolex Bao Dai is a rare and highly valuable watch that was once owned by Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam. The watch was sold at a 2002 auction in Geneva for a record-breaking $235,000, making it one of the most expensive Rolexes ever sold at auction.
The Bao Dai Rolex is a reference 6062, which was first introduced in the early 1950s. It features a black dial with diamond markers, a moon-phase indicator, and a triple calendar function. The case is made of 18k yellow gold and measures 36mm, making it one of the larger Rolex models of the time.
The watch is unique not only due to its rarity and historical significance but also because of its engraved case back. The case back bears the inscription “Bao Dai” in blue enamel, indicating that the watch was specially made for the emperor.
Today, the Bao Dai Rolex is considered one of the most sought-after and valuable watches in the world, with a value estimated to be well over $5 million.
Antimagnetique Reference 4113 (1942)
Antimagnetique Reference 4113 (1942) is the 4th most expensive rolex in the world. L’Antimagnetique Reference 4113 est une montre-bracelet produite par la célèbre maison horlogère suisse Patek Philippe en 1942. Cette montre était destinée aux militaires et aux aviateurs de l’époque, qui avaient besoin d’un instrument précis et fiable malgré les champs magnétiques présents dans leur environnement de travail.
La particularité de l’Antimagnetique Reference 4113 réside dans son boîtier en acier inoxydable anti-magnétique, qui protège efficacement le mouvement mécanique précis et complexe de la montre des perturbations magnétiques extérieures. Cette technologie était particulièrement novatrice à l’époque et a contribué à la réputation de Patek Philippe en matière d’innovation technique.
La montre est équipée d’un cadran argenté à 12 chiffres arabes, d’un affichage de la date à 3 heures et d’aiguilles lumineuses pour une meilleure visibilité dans l’obscurité. Le mouvement est le célèbre calibre 12”’120, qui offre une précision de +/- 8 secondes par jour et une réserve de marche d’environ 44 heures.
Aujourd’hui, l’Antimagnetique Reference 4113 est une montre très recherchée par les collectionneurs de Patek Philippe et peut atteindre des prix élevés aux enchères.
Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT-Master
Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT-Master is the 5th most expensive rolex in the world. Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT-Master is one of the most iconic watches ever worn by a Hollywood celebrity. The watch was famously worn by Brando in the 1979 movie Apocalypse Now, where it became a symbol of the actor’s rugged, anti-establishment persona.
The watch is an early GMT-Master model, which was first released in 1954. It features a black dial, a red and blue “Pepsi” bezel, and a stainless steel case and bracelet. The watch was originally designed for pilots and travelers, and it has a second time zone function that allows the wearer to track two time zones at once.
Brando’s GMT-Master is especially valuable because it has several unique features. The most notable is the fact that the watch has been modified with a leather strap instead of the original bracelet. This modification was made by the actor himself, who was known for his style and rebellious spirit.
In addition to its unique strap, Brando’s GMT-Master also has a modified dial that has been “blacked out” with a matte finish. This modification was made by the actor’s jeweler, who was tasked with making the watch look more rugged and militaristic for its appearance in Apocalypse Now.
Today, Brando’s GMT-Master is one of the most sought-after watches by collectors and fans of the actor. It is estimated to be worth several hundred thousand dollars, and it remains a symbol of both Brando’s style and his enduring legacy as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors.
Eric Clapton’s Rolex “Oyster Albino” Cosmograph Daytona
Eric Clapton’s Rolex “Oyster Albino” Cosmograph Daytona is the 6th most expensive rolex in the world. Eric Clapton’s Rolex “Oyster Albino” Cosmograph Daytona is a watch model that is highly sought after by collectors and fans of the musician. This watch is unique because it features a silver dial with white sub-dials, which is a rare configuration for the Daytona model.
The “Albino” nickname refers to the lack of black chronograph sub-dials, which are traditionally found on the Daytona models. Additionally, the watch features a stainless steel bezel and case and is powered by a manual-winding mechanical movement.
The story behind Clapton’s ownership of this watch is also interesting. According to reports, Clapton originally bought the watch in the late 1990s and wore it regularly for several years. However, he eventually sold it at auction in 2003 for a staggering $505,000, which was a record-breaking price for a Rolex Daytona at the time.
In 2008, the watch made headlines again when it was put up for auction once more and sold for a whopping $1.4 million, making it one of the most expensive Rolexes ever sold. Today, the “Oyster Albino” Cosmograph Daytona remains a highly coveted and valuable timepiece for collectors and fans alike.
Jack Nicklaus Rolex Day-Date
Jack Nicklaus Rolex Day-Date is the 7th most expensive rolex in the world. The Jack Nicklaus Rolex Day-Date is a limited edition watch designed by Rolex to honor the legacy of legendary professional golfer Jack Nicklaus. The watch features a 36mm 18k yellow gold case and bracelet, along with a champagne-colored dial with diamond hour markers.
The watch also includes a special commemorative inscription on the back of the case, which reads “Jack Nicklaus – Record Breaker – 18 Major Championships.” The Rolex Day-Date was the first watch to feature both the date and day of the week, and it is often referred to as the “President’s watch” due to its popularity with US presidents.
Overall, the Jack Nicklaus Rolex Day-Date is a highly sought-after collector’s item and is considered one of the most iconic watches produced by Rolex.
Rolex GMT Master II Ice
Rolex GMT Master II Ice is the 8th most expensive rolex in the world. The Rolex GMT Master II Ice is a limited edition luxury watch that features a white gold case and bracelet with diamonds set into the bezel, lugs, and center links of the bracelet. The watch also features a blue dial with luminescent hands and hour markers, as well as a dual time zone function and a date display. The GMT Master II Ice is powered by Rolex’s Calibre 3186 self-winding mechanical movement and has a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. This watch is a status symbol for those who appreciate the highest levels of craftsmanship and luxury.
James Bond Rolex Submariner (1972)
James Bond Rolex Submariner (1972) is the 9th most expensive rolex in the world. The Rolex Submariner in the 1972 James Bond film was a reference 5513 model. This particular watch featured a black dial with white hour markers, a black rotating bezel, and a stainless steel case and bracelet. The watch was worn by actor Roger Moore, who played James Bond for the first time in the film “Live and Let Die.”
The watch was also equipped with a special feature that allowed it to function as a miniature circular saw, which Bond used to escape from a dangerous situation in the film. While this feature was purely fictional, it helped cement the Rolex Submariner’s reputation as a watch for adventurers and thrill-seekers.
Today, vintage Rolex Submariners like the one worn by James Bond is highly sought after by collectors and can command high prices at auction.
Rolex Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster
Rolex Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster is the 10th most expensive rolex in the world. The Rolex Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster is a luxurious women’s wristwatch that features a stunning array of diamonds set in solid platinum. The watch is part of Rolex’s prestigious Oyster Perpetual Pearlmaster collection, which is known for its exquisite designs and exceptional attention to detail.
The Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster is powered by a certified Swiss chronometer movement and includes a date display on the dial. The case and bracelet are crafted from solid platinum and feature a range of diamond settings that enhance the watch’s aesthetic appeal.
The bezel is set with 32 baguette-cut diamonds, while the dial features 8 diamond hour markers and a shimmering mother-of-pearl finish. The bracelet is adorned with 216 diamonds, making this a truly extravagant timepiece.
In addition to its stunning appearance, the Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster is also incredibly durable and water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters. With its exceptional craftsmanship, timeless design, and luxurious materials, the Rolex Platinum Diamond Pearlmaster is one of the most sought-after women’s watches in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Rolex cost?
The cost of a Rolex can vary greatly depending on the model, condition, and location of purchase. Prices can range from around $4,000 for a pre-owned Rolex to over $100,000 for a rare or limited edition model. It is important to note that prices for Rolex watches can fluctuate due to market demand and availability. Additionally, prices may vary between authorized dealers and private sellers.
How to tell if a Rolex is real?
- Check the weight: A real Rolex should feel heavy and well-crafted.
- Look for the Rolex logo: The Rolex crown logo should be visible on the watch’s face and the movement.
- Check the serial number: Rolex watches have a unique serial number engraved on the side of the case, between the lugs.
- Inspect the movement: Rolex watches have a high-quality, precise movement that should be smooth and silent.
- Check the details: Pay attention to the small details, such as the font of the numbers and the alignment of the hands.
- Examine the bracelet: Rolex bracelets are made of high-quality materials and should be tightly linked, with a smooth finish.
- Have it authenticated: If you’re still unsure, take the watch to a professional jeweler or Rolex dealer to have it authenticated.
What is the cheapest Rolex?
The cheapest Rolex model currently available is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, with a starting price of around $5,000.
Why is Rolex so expensive?
Rolex watches are expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and precision craftsmanship. The brand also has a long history of luxury and prestige, with a reputation for durability and reliability. Additionally, Rolex watches are often considered status symbols, and the high price tag reflects this exclusivity. The watches are also made in small numbers, which increases the demand and drives up the price. Finally, Rolex watches are often considered investments, with many models increasing in value over time.
What is the Rolex in hawkeye?
The Rolex in Hawkeye refers to the watch worn by the character Hawkeye (Clint Barton) in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is a symbol of his status as a highly skilled and respected Avenger and is often seen as a sign of his precision and attention to detail. In the films, the watch is typically worn on his wrist as he carries out his duties as a member of the team, and it is often used as a tool for timing and coordination during missions.
How to buy a Rolex?
- Research: Before making a purchase, research the different models of Rolex watches available and decide which one best suits your needs and budget.
- Determine authenticity: Make sure you are buying from a reputable and authorized Rolex dealer to ensure authenticity and quality.
- Decide on the right size: Rolex watches come in different sizes. Try on different models to see which size is most comfortable for you.
- Choose the right material: Rolex watches are available in different materials such as steel, gold, and platinum. Choose the one that best suits your style and budget.
- Consider the warranty: Look for a Rolex watch with a warranty. This will ensure that you are protected against any defects or problems with the watch.
- Make your purchase: Once you have made your decision, make your purchase from an authorized dealer. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and a warranty card.
- Enjoy your new Rolex: Wear your new Rolex watch with pride and enjoy the quality and craftsmanship that goes into every timepiece.
How much is a Rolex submariner?
The price of a Rolex Submariner can vary depending on the model, age, and condition of the watch. On average, a new Rolex Submariner can cost between $8,000 and $12,000. However, prices can range from $6,000 for a pre-owned model to over $20,000 for a limited edition or rare model. It’s important to note that prices can also vary depending on the retailer or seller.
Where is Rolex made?
Rolex watches are made in Geneva, Switzerland.
How to wind Rolex?
- Locate the winding crown on the side of the watch.
- Pull the crown out to the first position. This will allow you to wind the watch manually.
- Turn the crown clockwise, winding the watch until it feels tight.
- Push the crown back into the original position to lock it in place.
- Ensure that the time is set correctly and the watch is running smoothly.
- If your Rolex is automatic, it will wind itself through the motion of your wrist as you wear it. If it has not been worn for an extended period, you may need to manually wind it before wearing it.
Which Rolex is the hardest to get?
The Rolex Daytona with a stainless steel case and a white gold bezel is considered one of the hardest to get as it is highly sought after and has a limited production run. Other highly sought-after and difficult-to-obtain Rolex models include the Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea, the Rolex Sky-Dweller, and the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in platinum.
What Rolex does Tiger Woods wear?
Tiger Woods wears a Rolex Daytona.
What is the average income of a Rolex owner?
It is difficult to provide an accurate average income of a Rolex owner as it can vary greatly depending on the individual and their specific circumstances. However, Rolex watches are generally considered luxury items and are typically purchased by individuals with a higher income. According to a study by Credit Suisse, the average price of a new Rolex watch is around $8,000, which suggests that the average income of a Rolex owner would likely be above the national median income.
Is it cheaper to buy a Rolex at the airport?
It is not necessarily cheaper to buy a Rolex at the airport. The prices for Rolex watches are typically set by the manufacturer and are the same at all authorized dealers, regardless of location. However, some airport duty-free shops may offer special promotions or discounts, so it’s worth checking before purchasing. It’s also important to note that purchasing a Rolex from an unauthorized dealer or at a questionable establishment, such as an airport kiosk, could result in purchasing a counterfeit or stolen watch. Always purchase from an authorized dealer to ensure authenticity and warranty coverage.
How long is the waiting list for a Rolex?
The waiting list for a Rolex can vary depending on the specific model and location. Some popular models, such as the Rolex Submariner and Rolex Daytona, can have waiting lists that are several years long. However, the waiting list may be shorter for less popular models or at authorized dealers in less populated areas. It is best to contact your local authorized Rolex dealer for specific information on waiting lists for the model you are interested in.
How many years does Rolex watch last?
Rolex watches are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, a Rolex watch can last for many decades, even up to a century or more. However, the lifespan of a Rolex watch also depends on factors such as the specific model and how it is used. Some Rolex watches may need to be serviced or have parts replaced after a few years of use, while others may continue to function perfectly for many years without any issues.
Can I just go and buy a Rolex?
Yes, you can go and purchase a Rolex from an authorized dealer or authorized reseller. However, it is important to note that Rolex watches are highly sought after and can be quite expensive. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the watch is authentic and not counterfeit.
