Best Rolex Investment Watches

Over the past decade, the world of luxury watches has experienced a great transformation, partially surpassing traditional investment avenues in terms of growth and allure. These exquisite timepieces have demonstrated their ability to outshine stocks, gold, and even real estate, boasting an impressive growth rate of over sometimes up to 200%. These numbers for sure get the attention of every investor. 

Among the many esteemed watch brands, few can rival the reputation and desirability of Rolex. Positioned at the pinnacle of horological excellence, Rolex has become one of the most esteemed watchmakers in history. When examining the most expensive watches ever sold, Rolex consistently stands tall alongside the esteemed Patek Philippe. It’s no wonder that Rolex is often hailed as the most valued watch company on the planet.

Rolex holds an enviable position in the Swiss luxury watch market, commanding approximately 30% of the market share. This remarkable achievement surpasses the combined market share of its closest five competitors, showcasing Rolex’s unparalleled popularity and enduring appeal. With an estimated worth exceeding $100 billion, Rolex is an undisputed heavyweight in the industry, a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship, timeless designs, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

This article will review the best Rolex watches for investment purposes. We aim to provide valuable insights, practical tips, and good advice to empower you to make well-informed decisions aligned with your investment goals. 

What to Look for When Investing in Rolex Watches

Rarity and Exclusivity: The Essence of Rolex’s Allure

Limited edition models: Exquisite Timepieces of Uniqueness and Value

Rolex, renowned for its unrivalled craftsmanship, has elevated the concept of exclusivity to new heights with its limited-edition watches. These extraordinary timepieces are meticulously crafted and produced in limited and unknown quantities, captivating the hearts of watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Each limited edition Rolex exemplifies the brand’s commitment to exceptional design and precision while embodying a sense of exclusivity that sets them apart.

These limited-edition Rolex models are infused with distinct design elements, commemorative engravings, or special collaborations with influential individuals like Roger Federer. This fusion of artistry and significance further amplifies their desirability, making them highly sought-after treasures. 

For example, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Paul Newman” is a legendary model that gained immense popularity after being featured in the film star’s personal life. The demand for this particular variation skyrocketed, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

Discontinued models: Scarcity as a Catalyst for Desirability

Rolex’s strategic decision to discontinue certain watch models adds a fascinating layer of exclusivity to its offerings. When a particular Rolex model is discontinued, its presence in the market diminishes, creating a sense of rarity and fueling its desirability. This scarcity often ignites a surge in demand, leading to increased prices in the secondary market. Collectors and investors recognize the immense value derived from owning a discontinued Rolex, making it a strategic choice for long-term investment, with specific models even outperforming Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet.

The Rolex Submariner reference 5513 stands as a shining example of this phenomenon. Discontinued in the late 1980s, this timeless model is now highly sought after by collectors due to its classic design and historical significance. The scarcity of Submariner 5513 has contributed to a substantial increase in its market value over the years, solidifying its position as a prized possession for those fortunate enough to acquire it.

Intrigue and Exclusivity: The Legacy of Rolex

Rolex’s commitment to rarity and exclusivity is further reflected in its enigmatic nature as a company. To this day, the exact number of watches produced by Rolex annually remains a closely guarded secret, shrouded in the mystique that surrounds the brand. Rolex operates as a highly private entity, adding an air of intrigue to its already captivating timepieces. This culture of privacy, combined with Rolex’s meticulous attention to detail, heightens the sense of exclusivity that defines the brand.

Furthermore, Rolex’s CEO employs a unique strategy known as “shrink to grow.” This approach involves optimizing the company’s retail footprint while expanding production in a measured manner. By reducing the number of retail locations, Rolex enhances the perception of exclusivity and scarcity surrounding its watches. This strategy aligns with the brand’s core philosophy, where quality and craftsmanship precede mass production.

Brand Reputation and Heritage

Rolex’s long-standing history and reputation as a symbol of luxury and status play a significant role in its enduring appeal. The brand’s heritage spans over a century, with a rich legacy of precision, innovation, and timeless design. Rolex watches have graced the wrists of influential individuals, from world leaders to iconic figures in sports and entertainment, further cementing their reputation as a symbol of success and accomplishment.

Rolex’s long-standing history

Rolex, founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, emerged as a pioneer in the wristwatch industry. Despite scepticism surrounding wristwatches at the time, Wilsdorf believed in their potential. He obtained certification from the Kew Observatory to combat doubts about accuracy, making Rolex the first wristwatch to receive this honour.

Wilsdorf’s innovative mindset continued as he recognized the appeal of water-resistant timepieces. To showcase this feature, he collaborated with Mercedes Gleitze, a renowned swimmer, who wore a Rolex during her Channel crossing attempt. Although she didn’t complete the swim, the Rolex endured, and Wilsdorf seized the opportunity to highlight its exceptional durability.

Not content with their achievements, Rolex ventured into the realm of self-winding watches. Introducing the weighted rotor, which harnessed wrist movement to power the watch, Rolex revolutionized the industry and set a new standard for automatic timepieces.

Over time, Rolex’s reputation for quality and precision grew, bolstered by introducing iconic models like the Submariner, Daytona, GMT-Master, Datejust and Sky-Dweller. These watches became synonymous with their respective domains, such as diving, racing, and aviation.

In the 1970s, the advent of quartz watches, led by the Japanese brand SEIKO, posed a significant challenge to the Swiss watch industry. While many brands faltered, Rolex saw an opportunity. They responded by developing their own quartz watches to compete and strategically shifted their focus to luxury timepieces, crafting exquisite 18-karat gold watches and implementing substantial price increases.

This transformation elevated Rolex to the summit of the luxury mountain. What once started as a bold venture into wristwatches became a luxury and status symbol. Rolex’s enduring appeal stems from its commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and innovation. It has transcended its early reputation as a functional timekeeping instrument and has become a coveted accessory, representing a blend of elegance, prestige, and timeless style.

Demand and Market Trends 

The demand and market trends for Rolex watches have shown a remarkable upward trajectory, with fluctuations along the way. A watch industry expert recently described witnessing crypto-level demand for “hype watches” for the first time, reflecting the strong growth in the luxury watch market.

To exemplify the investment potential, let’s consider the price of a Rolex in 1970, a modest $230. Fast forward to today, and that same timepiece commands a princely sum of $28,800, representing a staggering total return on investment and an annualized return of 16.29%. These numbers undeniably make a compelling case for considering watches, particularly Rolex, as a viable investment option.

The market for Rolex watches has seen certain rare models reach astronomical prices in the millions of dollars. This surge in value is driven by factors such as limited production runs, historical significance, and unique features that attract passionate collectors and investors.

While the market for Rolex watches can experience fluctuations, the overall trend has been positive, with prices generally experiencing growth over time. Rolex watches have demonstrated the potential to deliver substantial returns on investment, particularly for collectors who acquire sought-after models and hold them for the long term.

In the subsequent parts, we will explore different Rolex models, and their specific price ranges and highlight the varying values and investment potential within the Rolex brand.

Best Rolex Investment Watches

Rolex Daytona (Rolex 116500)

The Rolex Daytona is an iconic timepiece that has captured the imagination of watch enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its association with motorsports and speed, the Daytona has a chronograph function that allows precise elapsed time measurement. What makes the Daytona truly intriguing is its historical significance as the preferred watch of racing legend Paul Newman. Newman’s personal Daytona, given to him by his wife, Joanne Woodward, became one of the most sought-after watches, fetching record-breaking prices at auctions. This connection to a legendary figure adds mystique and collector appeal to the Rolex Daytona, making it a captivating investment option.

Rolex Daytona (ref. 6239-6265)

The Daytona models from the ref. 6239 to the ref. 6265 represents the early years of the iconic Rolex Daytona chronograph. These vintage Daytonas are highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts for their historical significance and timeless design. The ref. 6239, famously known as the “Paul Newman Daytona,” gained legendary status due to its association with the iconic actor and racing enthusiast. These early Daytona models showcase a range of features, such as exotic dials, pump pushers, and a variety of bezel options. With their limited production numbers and rich racing heritage, these vintage Daytonas command premium prices and are considered some of the world’s most valuable and collectable watches.

Rolex Daytona (ref. 16520-116520)

The ref. 16520 to the ref. 116520 mark the transition of the Daytona to the modern era. During this period, Rolex introduced the first self-winding Daytona chronographs powered by the iconic Zenith El Primero movement. These models feature larger 40mm cases with screw-down pushers and sapphire crystals. The introduction of the in-house Rolex movement with the ref. 116520 further elevated the desirability of these Daytona models. With their blend of vintage-inspired aesthetics and modern technological advancements, the ref. 16520 and ref. 116520 appeals to collectors who appreciate Daytona’s timeless design and contemporary reliability.

Rolex Submariner (ref. 6204-5508)

The Submariner models from the ref. 6204 to the ref. 5508 represent the early years of this iconic Rolex dive watch. These vintage Submariners hold a special place in horological history as some of the earliest iterations of the Submariner line. With their classic design elements and significant historical importance, these Submariners are highly coveted by collectors. Their scarcity and higher price points make them more suitable for experienced collectors seeking rare and valuable timepieces that embody the essence of Rolex’s pioneering dive watch heritage.

Rolex Submariner (ref. 5512-5513)

Often referred to as the “bread and butter” models of the Submariner family, the ref. 5512 and ref. 5513 is synonymous with the Golden Age of the Submariner. These models are beloved for their timeless design, robustness, and historical significance. They were produced in large quantities, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to own a piece of Submariner history at more accessible price points compared to their rarer counterparts. The ref. 5512, in particular, stands out for being the first Submariner to feature crown guards, further enhancing its appeal among collectors. These Golden Age Submariners embody the essence of a classic dive watch, making them a popular choice for those starting their journey into the world of vintage Rolex.

Rolex Submariner (ref. 14060)

The transitional years of the Submariner introduced the ref. 14060, marking a significant evolution in design and features. These transitional Submariners bridge the gap between the classic vintage models and the modern Submariners of today. The ref. 14060 retains the iconic aesthetic of earlier Submariners while incorporating updates such as a sapphire crystal and improved movement. Collectors are drawn to these transitional Submariners for their unique combination of vintage charm and contemporary functionality. With their distinct character, the ref. 14060 models offer a captivating choice for collectors seeking an outstanding timepiece.

Each of these Submariner references holds its own allure and appeal within the realm of vintage Rolex watches. Whether captivated by the early pioneering models, the Golden Age classics, or the transitional timepieces, exploring these Submariners allows you to embark on a fascinating journey through the evolution and timeless legacy of Rolex’s iconic dive watch.

Rolex GMT-Master II (ref. 116713LN)

The Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116713LN is a captivating timepiece that combines functionality and elegance. Designed for professional pilots and frequent travellers, this model is part of Rolex’s iconic GMT-Master II collection. Its black dial, two-tone stainless steel, and yellow gold Oyster bracelet exude a timeless sense of sophistication.

What sets the ref. 116713LN apart is its bi-colour “Cerachrom” bezel. Crafted from Rolex’s patented ceramic material, this bezel is highly durable and features a striking black and gold design. The bi-directional rotating bezel allows tracking of multiple time zones, making it invaluable for globetrotters.

Powered by Rolex’s Caliber 3186 movement, the GMT-Master II ref. 116713LN offers precise timekeeping and the ability to independently set the hour hand. This functionality allows for seamless switching between time zones without affecting the accuracy of minutes and seconds.

Combining practicality, technical excellence, and the prestige of the Rolex name, the GMT-Master II ref. 116713LN represents a true symbol of luxury and style. Its stainless steel and yellow gold construction, coupled with the rich heritage of the GMT-Master II line, contribute to its enduring appeal and investment value.

Rolex GMT-Master II (ref. 16710)

The Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 16710 is a legendary timepiece that has become an icon among watch enthusiasts. This model is known for its distinctive red and blue bezel, often called the “Pepsi” bezel, and it holds a special place in Rolex’s history. Originally introduced in the 1980s, the ref. 16710 has gained a cult following for its classic design and timeless appeal.

Equipped with a reliable and precise automatic movement, the ref. 16710 offers dual time zone functionality, allowing travellers to keep track of different time zones simultaneously. The red and blue bezel, made from aluminium, adds a vibrant touch to the watch’s overall aesthetics and remains a highly sought-after feature.

With its stainless steel construction and robust design, the GMT-Master II ref. 16710 is a stylish timepiece and a durable companion for any adventure. It has proven popular among avid travellers and collectors who appreciate its historical significance and enduring charm.

Whether worn for its practical functionality or as a symbol of luxury and style, the Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 16710 continues to be a highly coveted watch in the market. Its timeless design and iconic features make it a true classic that stands the test of time.

Investing in Rolex Watches with Morpher

Choosing the right watch to invest in can be a daunting task. The truth is the majority of watches do not appreciate in value. Only a select few models have demonstrated consistent growth over time. Putting all your money into a single watch and hoping for appreciation is risky. As you can see here, for example, this Rolex GMT-Master II (1267BLRO) did not really appreciate or hold its value as the other models from before, perhaps even leaving you with a loss if you bought it during the hype in 2022. 

That’s where the concept of watch indexes might become valuable. Investing in indexes has long been recognized as a smart strategy in the stock market. By diversifying your investments across a basket of stocks, you reduce risk and capture the overall market trend. Now, a similar opportunity exists in the world of watches. Investing in watch indexes allows you to take advantage of the most sought-after models and profit from their collective price movements. 

This approach eliminates the need to purchase individual watches, making them accessible even if you don’t have a large amount of capital or do not know how to invest in watches. Like investing in stock indexes, investing in watch indexes offers diversification benefits and the ability to participate in the overall market trend. It’s an ideal way for watch enthusiasts and investors to enter the market and potentially benefit from the appreciation of a wide range of coveted watch models.

With Morpher, watch markets are introduced, representing the average price of several watches. Instead of investing in individual timepieces, you can now profit from the price movements of multiple sought-after models. The appeal of investing in entire indexes of exclusive watches is undeniable, especially if you do not have a lot of money to invest. The flexibility of buying and selling your investments anytime adds to the convenience and liquidity, making it similar to stock trading. 

Here are 4 easy steps to follow to invest in the Rolex Submariner and Rolex Daytona collections:

1. Register on Morpher and verify your account
2. Choose the Unique Markets and select Watches

3. Choose a collection and start trading

4. Enjoy the convenience of trading with various indicators and tracking price movements of the highest ROI Rolex watches like Daytona and Submariner

On Morpher, the possibilities extend beyond just investing in watches. You can trade diverse assets, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, commodities, and even unique markets such as NFTs and sneakers. This multifaceted platform allows you to explore various investment avenues and expand your portfolio beyond traditional markets.

Morpher offers the option to apply 10x leverage and engage in short selling for those interested in traditional markets. This feature empowers traders to potentially profit from rising and falling prices, a concept that might also extend to the watch markets. Imagine the ability to capitalize on market trends, whether prices are surging or declining, and make the most of your investment strategy. So go ahead and become a luxury watch investor in no time. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in Rolex watches can offer significant returns on investment. 

Throughout this guide, we have highlighted some of the best-performing models, notably the Daytona and Submariner. These timepieces have consistently demonstrated appreciation in value over time. However, investing in individual watches can be challenging and risky. That’s why we encourage you to explore the world of Rolex investment on Morpher. With Morpher, you can build a diverse watch portfolio comprising the best and rarest models, allowing you to profit from the potential ROI these watches can deliver.

Take advantage of the opportunities offered by Morpher to participate in the exciting world of watch investments and embark on your journey towards building a valuable watch collection.

Disclaimer: All investments involve risk, and the past performance of a security, industry, sector, market, financial product, trading strategy, or individual’s trading does not guarantee future results or returns. Investors are fully responsible for any investment decisions they make. Such decisions should be based solely on an evaluation of their financial circumstances, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs. This post does not constitute investment advice.