Rolex University: 18 Most Commonly Asked Questions About Rolex Watches

Rolex Hulk

The Rolex Submariner ref. 116610LV, better known as the ‘Hulk’. Image: Bob's Watches

Buying a Rolex isn’t as simple as just buying a Rolex. Not only do you need to be able to track down your ‘grail’ piece (far easier said than done due to limited supplies and high demand) but you need to ask yourself, and your respective watch dealer, a fair amount of questions before you part with several thousand dollars of cash. It’s going to be an investment piece after all, as many Rolex watch prices tend to appreciate over time, so keep your in good condition and you’ll be virtually guaranteed of a sizeable return if you ever decide to sell it.

But what questions should you be asking exactly? That’s where we here at DMARGE come in. We know Rolex like the back of our hand (or wrist, as it were), and have delved through enough listings, spoken to dealers and representatives and engrossed ourselves in all things Rolex so much, that we reckon we could actually spot a fake model from a mile away* (*not verified).

So, we thought it best to collate all the questions you could possibly ever need to ask when considering buying a Rolex and provide you with answers spelt out in plain English so that you leave this page feeling far more informed than before you clicked on it.

Why are Rolex watches so expensive?

Rolex watches are expensive due to their exceptional quality, high-end materials, and intricate craftsmanship. Rolex also has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the best luxury watches in the world, which contributes to their high price point.

How long do Rolex watches last?

Rolex watches are built to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. They are known for their exceptional durability and resilience, which is why they are considered a reliable investment.

How do you wind a Rolex watch?

Rolex watches are self-winding, which means they don’t require manual winding. However, if the watch is not worn for an extended period, it can be manually wound by gently turning the crown in a clockwise direction.

Are Rolex watches waterproof?

Rolex watches are designed to be water-resistant and can withstand a certain level of water pressure. However, the depth and duration of water exposure that a watch can handle will depend on its specific model.

Are Rolex watches unisex?

Rolex watches are available in both men’s and women’s sizes and styles. Some models are considered unisex and can be worn by either gender.

Can Rolex watches be engraved?

Rolex watches can be engraved, but it’s important to have the work done by a professional engraver to avoid damaging the watch.

How do you set the time on a Rolex watch?

To set the time on a Rolex watch, you should first unscrew the crown and gently pull it out to the first position. From there, you can rotate the crown to set the time, and then push it back in and screw it down to secure it in place.

Setting the time on a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona.

How often should a Rolex be serviced?

Rolex recommends that their watches be serviced every 5-10 years, depending on usage and the model of the watch. Regular maintenance is important to ensure that the watch is functioning properly and to prevent any damage or wear over time.

Can you wear a Rolex watch in the shower?

While Rolex watches are designed to be water-resistant, it’s not recommended to wear them in the shower or any other type of water exposure that is not within the watch’s specified limits.

How can you tell if a Rolex is real?

There are several ways to tell if a Rolex is real, including checking the serial and model numbers, examining the quality and weight of the materials, and inspecting the movement and other internal components.

Do all Rolex watches have a date function?

Not all Rolex watches have a date function. Some models, such as the Daytona and some variants of the Submariner, do not include a date display.

How many jewels are in a Rolex watch?

Rolex watches typically contain between 25 and 31 jewels, which are small synthetic rubies that are used to reduce friction in the movement and improve accuracy.

What is the difference between a Rolex Submariner and Sea-Dweller?

The main difference between the Rolex Submariner and Sea-Dweller is their water resistance. The Sea-Dweller is designed for deeper diving and can withstand greater pressure than the Submariner.

What is the most expensive Rolex ever sold?

The most expensive Rolex ever sold is the Paul Newman Daytona, which was auctioned off in 2017 for a record-breaking $17.8 million.

RELATED: The Most Expensive Watches Of All Time, Ranked

Can you negotiate the price of a Rolex?

No. Rolex watches are sold through authorised dealers and are typically sold at their suggested retail price.

What makes Rolex watches so expensive?

Rolex watches are expensive due to their high-quality materials and manufacturing processes. The brand uses only the finest materials, such as 18-karat gold, and produces most of the components in-house, which drives up the cost. Additionally, Rolex watches are hand-assembled and undergo rigorous testing and quality control, which adds to their price tag.

What is the most popular Rolex model?

The most popular Rolex model is the Submariner. This dive watch was first introduced in 1953 and has since become an icon of the brand. Other popular models include the Datejust, Daytona, and GMT-Master.

How often should you service a Rolex watch?

Rolex recommends servicing its watches every 10 years, but this can vary depending on usage and environmental factors. If your watch is exposed to extreme temperatures, shock, or water, it may require more frequent servicing.

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