Which Rolex Models Offer the Best Value?

In a previous post, I shared my thoughts on which Rolex model holds its value the best. While my thoughts haven't changed in that regard, there is a difference between a watch that holds its value and one that offers the best value at purchase. For the latter, I would recommend considering a pre-owned Rolex from a reliable dealer. There are several models that offer the reliability and prestige that come with owning a Rolex at a price that can't be beat.

Best Value for a Professional Rolex
If you're looking for a stainless steel professional Rolex model at a value, I would recommend checking out the Explorer II model. There are usually many available certified pre-owned on websites like Crown & Caliber at prices lower than those of other popular models like the Submariner or GMT-Master II. The Explorer II has a large case size and a useful GMT complication with a brushed steel bezel that makes it ideal for the outdoors. For anyone curious as to how the Explorer II measures up to the popular Submariner Date model, I posted a side-by-side comparison here.

Best Value for a Rolex Dress Watch
If you spend most of your time in a suit, you may want to check out the Datejust and Air-King models. There are many stainless steel configurations available in the small to midsize range that offer a great value for a quality dress watch. These models are the most varied in terms of size and style, with many dial colors and materials to choose from. This makes them a bit more difficult to sell if you are thinking in terms of resale value, but it favors the buyer on the pre-owned market.

Best Value Retention
If you are looking for a watch that will hold its value should you ever want to flip it, I would recommend a Submariner or GMT-Master II. These models are in constant demand and have changed very little over the years. The BLNR has been difficult to find at dealers around the world and favored in Rolex's recent advertising efforts, giving it great value retention should you be able to get your hands on one. The same goes for last year's 'it' watch, the stainless steel Daytona 116500LN with the black Cerachrom bezel.

Regardless of which Rolex you choose, there is value in owning one regardless of how much you paid. Aside from the status associated with wearing one, they offer reliability and precision that has kept them at the top of their game for over a century. To check out their entire collection, visit rolex.com.

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Rolex released the Explorer II model in 1971, almost twenty years after its predecessor. Although it shared a name with the Explorer, this wristwatch resembled the GMT-Master much more in terms of function and style - it actually used the same movement as the GMT-Master, either a calibre 1570 or 1575.

First Rolex Explorer Model, 1971 (photo: Rolex)

This professional wristwatch was originally marketed for scientists and explorers, such as speleologists, who easily lost track of day and night while performing research in caves. The original Explorer II had a 40mm case with a 24 hour fixed bezel and an orange 24 hour hand, as shown in the photo above.

For its 40th anniversary in 2011, the Explorer II was reintroduced with a 42mm case and a new 3187 movement. However, this model has changed very little through the years. The current model, shown below, is made with Rolex's 904l stainless steel alloy with a satin finish. It is available with a black dial and orange 24 hour hand, just like the original and the famed Steve McQueen version of the Explorer II.

Rolex Explorer II (photo: Rolex)

The Explorer II is often overlooked amidst the fanfare that surrounds the more popular Rolex models, such as the Submariner and Daytona. However, its longevity on the market and consistent design and functionality makes it a classic.

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Rolex 3187 Movement

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II