Is A Vintage Rolex A Good Investment?

It was pretty surprising to see how the luxury watch industry reacted instantly to the Covid-19 crisis. The leading Swiss giant Rolex saw a dramatic increase in its watch sales amidst the pandemic. And the good news for Rolex watch collectors, fans and owners in 2021 is that the market of vintage Rolex watches is booming.

Rolex is among the most famous luxury watchmakers in the world. All Rolex models have incredibly high demand in the second hand market. However, vintage Rolex watches have a different fan base, and they are indeed the best investment pieces. One of the significant reasons behind it is the principle of demand and supply.

Factors that Make Vintage Rolex watches Good Investment

Let’s continue with the principle of demand and supply. The Rolex models that are still in production are easy to get. However, in the case of discontinued models, it naturally becomes quite challenging to get the timepiece.

Rolex produces some models in limited numbers, and their demand is comparatively higher than others. They can be difficult to secure from an authorised dealer. Nonetheless, these timepieces are yet possible to get in comparison to the discontinued ones.

The significant factors that influence the price increase and investment potential of a Rolex watch include –

• Limited production, Low Supply and High demand
• Specific models like vintage Rolex Submariner, vintage Rolex Datejust and Rolex Daytona vintage have deep, storied history, celebrity association and the public’s fascination.

For example, the Rolex Paul Newman Daytona gained more recognition and desirability after the legendary actor and racer Paul Newman was spotted with one on his wrist. Thus, the watch also became historically significant.

• Moreover, rare iterations with minute differences also play a significant role.

For example, the Rolex “Red” Submariner stand apart from the standard Submariner models. This is because it has the “Submariner” text inscribed in red rather than white as found in the traditional Sub watches.

The Condition

Another significant factor taken into consideration when it comes to vintage Rolex is the condition. With time, watches get signs of wear and tear (if you wear it regularly). Moreover, they also often break or undergo significant damages. However, in many instances, owners send their watches for repairing and servicing. And often old parts are replaced with new parts.

All these factors influence the value of vintage Rolex watches. However, keep in mind that vintage watch collectors always look for entirely original models – watches with all original parts.

However, due to wear and services, the number of vintage Rolex watches with entirely original parts and in good condition tends to decrease with time. Eventually, they get increasingly difficult to get hold of, and their prices increase as time passes.

Thus, if you buy a vintage Rolex for investment reasons, choosing a model with all original parts is essential. Otherwise, it may have a negative impact resale value of your vintage Rolex.

On the other hand, if you own a Rolex Air-King vintage, a vintage submariner or any vintage Rolex watch, make sure to ascertain its wear and tear before heading out to sell your vintage Rolex.

If you decide to sell your vintage Rolex, make sure to ascertain its wear and tear primarily. Suppose your watch, Rolex Air-King vintage or a vintage Rolex Explorer, retain all its original parts and is in good condition. In that case, it can fetch you a premium from professional Rolex buyers like The Luxury Hut.

Vintage Rolex Watches with All Original Parts Are the Best Investment Pieces

A Rolex watch with exchanged parts like bezel and hands and the same timepiece with original parts usually have a significant price difference. This is because of mainly two reasons –

• The original vintage Rolex models are usually less in the market, and their number will only decrease over time.
• Secondly, the non-original parts change the look and feel of a vintage timepiece.

However, the accessories that come with a vintage Rolex timepiece at the time of purchase also affect its value in the second hand market. The accessories include a cardholder or a hand-tag or so. In most instances, owners unwittingly miss or lose these accessories.

Once a watchmaker discontinues a model, it becomes difficult to get the original parts. Thus, getting a vintage Rolex in its original state is challenging. However, they make excellent investments.

Also Read: 3 Best Vintage Rolex Watches that Won’t Break the Bank