Rolex Explorer (photo: Rolex/Alain Costa)

The most affordable Rolex watches are made from their 904L stainless steel alloy and are priced under $10,000. I have compiled a list of my picks for the best configurations in this category that you can check out by clicking here. It includes many of their popular models, including the Submariner, Explorer and GMT-Master II BLNR.

For under $25,000, you can get a Rolex with a combination of stainless steel and gold. Within this budget, you can get a two-tone Yacht-Master II, a diamond Datejust II or a Rolesor (combination of stainless and gold) Cosmograph Daytona. I added a few more popular Rolex models to my list, found here.

With the exception of platinum and diamond entrusted models, most of their higher end Rolex models fall under $50,000. This will get you a Sky-Dweller, a Day-Date or a gold Daytona. The gold GMT-Master II that I featured on my list (found here) is also a very nice value in this price range.

You can check out Rolex pricing for most models on the Rolex Forums as well. They have a static list of Rolex prices across countries.

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Best Rolex Watches for Under $50,000 (photo: Rolex)

Prices for new Rolex models range from less that $10,000 to over $100,000 depending on the model configuration you choose. Most of the models under $10,000 are professional models made with 904L stainless steel. Model configurations in the $25,000 price range usually feature a combination of steel and 18 karat white or yellow gold. 

In the $50,000 range, you can choose from most of the Oyster Perpetual models in white or yellow gold. I focused on gold configurations for this list as most are not available for less than $25,000. (Note: All of the pricing information below is based on Rolex's suggested retail price in Swiss francs converted to USD based on current exchange rates.) For a list of the best Rolex models for under $10,000, click here. For the best Rolex models under $25,000, click here. 

Rolex GMT-Master II (Reference 116718 LN)

Yellow Gold Rolex GMT-Master II (photo: Rolex)

Yellow Gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (photo: Rolex)

White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller (photo: Rolex)

Yellow Gold Rolex Yacht-Master II (photo: Rolex)

White Gold Rolex Day-Date 40 (photo: Rolex)

The Rolex Day-Date 40 is a great wristwatch that can be worn everyday, but is designed for a formal setting. This elegant timepiece adheres to Rolex's classical design standards, recently upgraded to a 40 mm case to make it competitive with the larger models that currently dominate the market. The fluted bezel and roman numerals look particularly beautiful against the blue dial of this configuration. Most Day-Dates are priced over $50,000, making this white gold version particularly appealing to someone who may not want to spend so much but still own a sophisticated Rolex timepiece. The suggested retail price for this Day-Date is 35,800 Swiss francs or approximately $36,691 US. 

Yellow Gold Rolex Datejust 36 (photo: Rolex)

For an in-depth look at each of these models, browse the Rolex Models section of our Rolex Shopping Guide page. Click here for information on Rolex gold and visit our Tech page for more info on Rolex materials and precious stones.

Best Rolex Models Under $25,000 (photo: Rolex)

When shopping for a new Rolex watch, it can be difficult to figure out which models and configurations fit into your budget. Pricing for these timepieces varies considerably depending on the model and material you select. For example, while most Cosmograph Daytona models are priced well over $25,000, you can still find configurations (like the Rolesor Daytona below) that may fit into your budget. 

The models I chose for this list represent the best value for a new Rolex watch within a price range of $10,000 to $25,000. Most of the models below are priced under $15,000, with a few noteworthy exceptions. (Note: All of the pricing information below is based on Rolex's suggested retail price in Swiss francs converted to USD based on current exchange rates.) For a list of the best Rolex models for under $10,000, click here. For a list of the best Rolex models for under $50,000, click here. 

Rolex Yacht-Master II (Reference 116681)

Rolesor Everose Rolex Yacht-Master II (photo: Rolex)

The model with the largest price tag on this list is the Yacht-Master II in Rolesor Everose, a combination of stainless steel and rose gold. This beautiful nautical watch features a regatta timer and a blue Cerachrom ceramic bezel. The 44 mm case is one of Rolex's largest and the YM2 is one of the newer Rolex models, introduced in 2007. While the functionality is designed for yacht racing, this is a great timepiece for anyone who appreciates a nautical aesthetic. The combination of the rose gold with the stainless steel is particularly complimentary to this model. The suggested retail price for the Rolesor Everose Rolex Yacht-Master II is 24,000 Swiss francs, or approximately $24,746 US.

Rolex Deepsea (Reference 116660)

Rolex Deepsea with D-Blue Dial (photo: Rolex)

The Rolex Deepsea also features a 44 mm case, shown above with the D-Blue dial that commemorates the Deepsea Challenge of 2012. With a depth rating of 3,900 meters, this watch lives up to its name. This model is larger than the Submariner, Rolex's most popular dive watch, with a thicker case and a Fliplock extension link that extends the Oyster bracelet by 26 mm. I chose the version with the D-Blue dial for this list because it is unique and may be more valuable in the long run after Rolex stops offering this configuration. The suggested retail price for the Rolex Deepsea with D-Blue Dial is 11,800 Swiss francs, or approximately $12,167 US.

Rolex Datejust II (Reference 116333)

Diamond Rolex Datejust II (photo: Rolex)

If someone were to ask me to close my eyes and think of a Rolex, a Datejust model would probably be the first one that pops into my head. Event though I have had a Deepsea for a few years now, there is something about a gold Datejust that screams Rolex. The Datejust II maintains the classical elements of the original with a 41 mm case. The model configuration shown above features diamond hour markers, a fluted 18 karat gold bezel and a Rolesor Oyster bracelet. Based on the size and materials used, I feel that it is a great value at 13,000 Swiss francs, or approximately $13,404 US.

Rolex GMT-Master II (Reference 116713 LN)

Rolex GMT-Master II (photo: Rolex)

While the GMT-Master II BLNR or 'Batman' is perhaps the most well known model configuration (featuring a blue and black ceramic bezel), this model looks particularly sophisticated in yellow gold or a combination of yellow gold with stainless steal. The stainless and yellow gold version is shown above, referred to as 'Rolesor' by Rolex. The yellow gold elements compliment the black dial and black Cerachrom bezel, with the green 24-hour hand providing a complimentary color detail. The suggested retail price for the Rolesor GMT-Master II is 12,400 Swiss francs or approximately $12,785 US.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (Reference 116523)

Rolesor Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (photo: Rolex)

A favorite among celebrities and race car enthusiasts, the Cosmograph Daytona is Rolex's most coveted model. While most are priced well over $25,000 and have waiting lists of up to two years in some cases, there are still a couple Daytona configurations in this price range. The Rolesor Daytona shown above features a black dial and gold bezel, giving it a particularly elegant look. The suggested retail price for this configuration is 16,100 Swiss francs, or approximately $16,601 US.

Rolex Submariner Date (Reference 116613 LB)

Rolesor Rolex Submariner Date (photo: Rolex)

The Rolex Submariner Date is a popular model among professionals and divers alike. Its sleek, yet sporty design aesthetic allows it to transition from the board room to the beach with ease. While most people choose a stainless steel configuration for this model, the Rolesor version with the blue ceramic bezel and dial is a beautiful alternative. The mix of cool and warm tones creates a color balance that is consummately nautical and a watch with 18 karat gold at this price point is a good deal if you ask me. After all, this is a timepiece that will never go out of style. The suggested retail price for the Rolex Submariner Date is 12,800 Swiss francs, or approximately $13,198 US.

Rolex Day-Date 36 (Reference 118135)

Everose Rolex Day-Date 36 on Black Leather Strap (photo:Rolex)

Rolex's Everose gold provides a great alternative to traditional yellow and white gold. It gives any timepiece a uniquely contemporary appearance that still harkens back to the gold watches that dominated the market in the early 20th century - particularly when paired with a leather strap. The 36 mm Day-Date in Everose gold on a black leather strap is a perfect synthesis of traditional and modern watch aesthetics: the size and black leather strap are more traditional, while the fluted rose gold bezel and black dial give it a modern touch. This is one of the few Day-Date models prices under $25,000 and is well worth the price tag of 22,500 Swiss francs (approximately $23,200 US).

Rolex Yacht-Master (Reference 116622)

Rolesium Rolex Yacht-Master (photo: Rolex)

The only watch on this list to feature Rolex's 950 Platinum, the Rolesium (Rolex refers to the combination of platinum and stainless steel as 'Rolesium') Yacht-Master model is a great option for those who like the cool tones of platinum and stainless steel. The bezel is made of platinum and the blue dial of this configuration compliments it perfectly. The Yacht-Master model has qualities of both the Submariner and Yacht-Master II, making it a good alternative for anyone who can't decide between the two. The suggested retail price for the Rolesium Yacht-Master is 11,000 Swiss francs, or approximately $11,342 US. 
For an in-depth look at each of these models, browse the Rolex Models section of our Rolex Shopping Guide page. For information on Rolex's 950 Platinum or Everose Gold, visit our Tech page.

Closeup of Rolex Explorer II Case

Rolex manufactures wristwatches that range in price from $5,000 to upwards of $100,000 US. The main determinants of their watch prices are the materials used for the bracelet and case, jewel and gem embellishments and the size of the watch. The majority of Rolex watch models priced under $10,000 are made from their 904L stainless steel alloy and include most of their popular professional models.

While taste and personal preference play a role in determining the best watches in any category, I narrowed this list down to the 6 Rolex models that offer the best value in this price range. (Note: All of the pricing information below is based on Rolex's suggested retail price in Swiss francs converted to USD based on current exchange rates.) For a list of the best Rolex models for under $25,000, click here. For a list of the best Rolex models for under $50,000, click here. 

Rolex Explorer II (Reference 216570)

Rolex Explorer II Model (photo: Rolex)

The largest model on this list, the Explorer II features a 42 mm case and a unique white dial. With an orange 24-hour hand and a fixed 24-hour stainless steel bezel, this professional watch allows the wearer to set the time in two different time zones. The 24-hour hand also allows one to tell the difference between day and night time in areas that may lack daylight. Aside from its size, the legibility and luminosity of its dial distinguishes this model from others. The Explorer II retails for $8,076 and is also available with a black dial as shown in the closeup above.

Rolex GMT-Master II (Reference 116710 BLNR)

Rolex GMT-Master II 'Batman' or 'Bruiser' (photo: Rolex)

The GMT-Master II BLNR, or Batman, is one of the most beloved Rolex models in this category. The unique two-tone 24-hour bi-directional bezel provides both utility and style, allowing the wearer to quickly set the time for a second time zone without using the winding crown. The polished center links on the Oyster bracelet are also a unique style feature that set this model apart from other professional models. The BLNR retails for approximately $8,746. (Check out my model comparison of the GMT-Master II (LN) and Explorer II for a comprehensive comparison of both models.)

Rolex Submariner Date (Reference 116610 LV)

Rolex Submariner Date 'Hulk' of 'Greenie' (photo: Rolex)

The Submariner Date is one of the most popular and recognizable Rolex models of all time. The watchmaker makes very little changes to this model through the years, making the green LV version especially unique. Aside from being a great looking dive watch, the Submariner tends to retain its value over time, making it a good investment as far as wristwatches go. The Greenie retails for approximately $8,846, which is $500 more than the black (LN) version. I chose the Greenie for this list because it is unique and will stand out more in the long run once Rolex stops manufacturing this configuration. (Check out my model comparison of the Submariner Date (LN) with the Deepsea for more info.)

Rolex Datejust II White Rolesor (photo: Rolex)

Rolex Milgauss with Z-Blue Dial (photo: Rolex)