Top Rolex Models to Invest in 2025
Rolex is a legend, and we've established that already. The timepieces are known for precision and timelessness, as well as their impressive ability to hold and even increase in value over time. They're coveted assets.
However, finding the perfect model to invest in is a long, winding journey. After all, not all Rolex models appreciate at the same rate, and choosing one requires a deeper insight into rarity, market trends, and even desirability.
We're continuing our annual tradition of offering Rolex investment suggestions to assist you on your journey. As we look ahead to 2025, the Rolex market continues to evolve, with some models becoming harder to find and others gaining more attention. So, we believe now's the time to learn which Rolex watches are worth your hard-earned money.
Whether you're a collector or a first-time buyer looking to dip your toes into the luxury watch realm, here's your handy guide for the top Rolex investments for 2025. Not to mention, these absolutely fantastic models not just make your bank account look good but your wrist even better!
Let's find out.
Best Rolex Watches to Invest in 2025
1. Rolex 1908, Reference 52508 in 18ct Yellow gold
Released in 2023, the Rolex Perpetual 1908 is a striking example of the brand's ability to blend modern innovation with tradition. From its meticulously crafted case to the fine detailing of the dial and luxurious leather strap, the Perpetual 1908 Reference 52508 offers a distinct aesthetic appeal. This is the perfect dress watch one could ask for.
The Rolex Perpetual 1908 Ref. 52508 features a 39mm yellow gold case with a harmonious blend of edges and curves. The design includes a double bezel, one finely fluted and the other smoothly domed, adding to its sophisticated appearance. The intense white dial radiates a strong vintage vibe, and Rolex calls it a 'miniature work of art', which is quite rare for the brand.
Considering this model is the ultimate expression of Rolex's proficiency in curating dress watches, we expect the value of this beautiful and brilliant Rolex 1908 Ref. 52508 to increase over time.
Key features:
Model: 52508
Case Size: 39mm
Material: 18ct yellow gold
Bezel: Domed and Fluted, 18ct yellow gold
Dial: Intense white
Bracelet: Matte brown Alligator leather strap
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 7140
Power Reserve: 66 hours
Water-resistance: 50 metres
Price: £20,100
2. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, Reference 126515LN in 18ct Everose gold
No Rolex list is complete without the Rolex Daytona. The history of Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is deeply rooted in motor racing. Launched in 1963, the Daytona features a tachymeter scale and a precise chronograph. Released in 2023 and 2024, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 126515LN is the luxury chronograph of choice for those who like to keep it stylish yet functional.
The Daytona Ref. 126515LN has earned the respect of the watch enthusiast community for its 18ct Everose gold case measuring 40mm, reshaped lugs with less difference between the right and left, edged black Cerachrom bezel with tachymetric scale, better-integrated crown guards, flat sapphire top, and a more refined dial. The sundust dial has three bright black counters at 3-6-9 o'clock to assist with accurate time setting. What's even more impressive is that the watch is worn on the super comfortable black Oysterflex rubber bracelet.
Despite market fluctuations, the Daytona has attracted investors because of its limited production, deep historical significance, and unique design. If you look back, you’ll find how Rolex Daytona prices outperform stock after brand drops new model. Therefore, it's no surprise that the Daytona Ref. 126515LN offers fantastic investment opportunities with lasting appreciation potential.
Key features:
Model: 126515LN
Case Size: 40mm
Material: 18ct Everose gold
Bezel: Black Cerachrom bezel in ceramic with tachymetric scale
Dial: Sundust & Bright black
Bracelet: Oysterflex bracelet
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 4131
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Water-resistance: 100 metres
Price: £29,300
3. Rolex GMT-Master II, Reference 126711CHNR in Steel & 18ct Everose gold
The rise of the GMT-Master to become an icon dates back to 1954. Over the years, both Rolex GMT-Master and GMT-Master II have become standard investing options for speculative investors. Released in 2018, the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126711CHNR, popularly known as the 'Rootbeer', is a stunner in stainless steel and 18ct Everose gold. Two-tone watches don't get enough love, but the Rolex 'Rootbeer' is a winning formula.
Coming in a 40mm case, the GMT-Master II 126711CHNR is a bit bigger but is extremely comfortable. The brown and black ceramic bezel with a 24-hour scale to indicate the day/night perfectly complements the Everose gold metal. The black dial has an independent hour hand indicating the local time, while the sleek gold hand refers to the home time. When the pointer aligns with a numeral on the brown side of the bezel, it indicates daytime for home time, while the black section indicates nighttime. It is one of the most convenient and good-looking GMT watches.
That's just a brief introduction to the stunning GMT-Master II 126711CHNR. Its desirability makes it a future collectable with a strong appreciation potential.
Key features:
Model: 126711CHNR
Case Size: 40mm
Material: Stainless steel & 18ct Everose gold
Bezel: Bidirectional, 24-hour graduated, Black & Brown Cerachrom insert in ceramic
Dial: Black
Bracelet: Stainless steel & 18ct Everose gold, Oyster
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 3285
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Water-resistance: 100 metres
Price: £14,750
4. Rolex Submariner, Reference 124060 in Stainless steel
Released in 1953, the Rolex Submariner is the world's first waterproof watch to reach a depth of 100 metres. Its construction, timeless appeal, and innovative qualities make it one of the best diving watches out there and a solid investment. Moreover, the Submariner is a tool watch, dive watch, and sports watch—in other words, it's an icon on land.
Rolex launched the classic Submariner 'No-Date' Ref. 124060 in 2020. This modern 41 mm-sized Rolex features more tapered lugs and redesigned crown guards. The unidirectional steel bezel with a black ceramic insert has a knurled edge, and the 60-minute graduation remains the same. The black dial of the Submariner Ref. 124060 is committed to legibility and functionality, featuring large hour markers and hands. It means it retains the 'Maxi' dial layout. Once again, the Submariner 'No-Date' 41 is worn on a typical Oyster bracelet.
Wondering if Rolex Submariner is a good investment? Well, according to several reports, the top Rolex Submariner models incurs a return of almost 24% on investment, showcasing its consistent market performance. Therefore, it's safe to bet on the 124060 Submariner to command significant premiums due to its timeless style, legacy and solid investment potential. For more details, refer to the famous Rolex Submariner price increase history.
Key features:
Model: 124060
Case Size: 41mm
Material: Stainless steel
Bezel: Unidirectional. 60-minute graduated Cerachrom insert in black ceramic
Dial: Black
Bracelet: Stainless steel, Oyster
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 3230
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Water-resistance: 300 metres
Price: £8050
5. Rolex Day-Date 36, Reference 128235, in 18ct Everose gold
The Rolex Day-Date or 'President' is always crafted from precious metal for a luxurious look, and the Day-Date 36 Ref. 128235 is no different. In fact, it takes the appeal of the already celebratory model a notch higher with its attractive green aventurine diamond-set dial. While Rolex has always considered the Day-Date its creative playground, the Ref. 128235, released in 2023, definitely reignited interest in stone-dial Day-Date models.
The new Rolex Day-Date 36 is the watch of prestige. Presented in a sophisticated 18ct Everose gold construction measuring 36mm, the green aventurine dial remains the main highlight of this watch. Made of precious stone, the green aventurine dial adorns tiny mineral inclusions that create a shimmering effect. This sparkling symphony captivates the wearer at a glance. The green colour here not only epitomises Rolex's essence, but the finely crafted crystallised surface presents a texture unlike any other. It adorns hour markers in 18ct everose gold, all set with sparkling diamonds for the effect. Adding to the fascination of this piece is the iconic President bracelet, boasting an elegantly refined design.
The growing demand for gold has amplified the popularity of gold Day-Date models. The unique design of the Day-Date Ref. 128235 in everose gold makes it a solid investment for collectors seeking rarity and distinctive style within the famous Day-Date lineup.
Key features:
Model: 128235
Case Size: 36mm
Material: 18ct Everose gold
Bezel: 18ct Everose gold, Fluted
Dial: Green Aventurine set with diamonds
Bracelet: 18ct Everose gold President
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 3255
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Water-resistance: 100 metres
Price: £42,150
6. Rolex Deepsea, Reference 136668LB, in 18ct Yellow gold
Combining luxury and durability, the Rolex Deepsea Ref. 136668LB is the first gold Deepsea, popularly called the 'Golden Smurf'. This all-gold timepiece makes a bold statement while preserving the depth performance associated with the steel Deepsea Sea-Dweller.
This new Rolex Deepsea Ref. 136668LB features the iconic blue and yellow gold colour scheme. With its big 44mm yellow gold construction, the watch carries considerable weight on the wrist. It maintains the renowned pressure-resistant construction with a ceramic compression ring and the iconic Ringlock system for the bezel. The bezel and dial both sport a vibrant blue hue, marking a stark contrast to the gold case. Zoom in to see the Smurf dial featuring the typical array of Mercedes hands, baton/circle /triangle hour markers and a small date window at 3 o'clock. On the inside of the Golden Smurf is the Calibre 3235, providing a solid backbone to this precious timepiece.
If you have a taste for bold, standout pieces, the Rolex Deepsea Ref. 136668LB in striking yellow gold is your perfect match. Its blend of sportiness and luxury makes it a compelling investment choice. As demand for sports watches grows, this model surely offers significant potential for creating new value.
Key features:
Model: 136668LB
Case Size: 44mm
Material: 18ct Yellow gold
Bezel: Unidirectional, 60-Minute graduated, Cerachrom insert in blue ceramic
Dial: Blue
Bracelet: 18ct Yellow gold, Oyster
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 3235
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Water-resistance: 3900 metres
Price: £47,500
7. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41, Reference 124300 in Stainless steel
Talking of classic, understated elegance, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual is unbeatable. The OP is one of the best watches Rolex makes, and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 Ref. 124300 clearly depicts that. The straightforward, unpretentious three-hander model is what we call the epitome of an everyday watch designed to last a lifetime, especially in these elegant versions. This reminds us that sometimes the most popular Rolex watch is also the most underrated.
The Rolex OP Ref. 124300 comes in a resilient 41mm stainless steel case, which seems like a quintessential Rolex. It endorses just the right amount of elegance with its attractive sunray finish bright black dial, making it perfect as your everyday perpetual. The hands and indices are made of 18ct white gold, all treated with Chromalight for exceptional readability. One of the most notable visual elements is the integration of double baton indexes at 3-6-9 o'clock, perfectly filling the large space offered by this time-only dial.
Released in 2020, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 124300 has gained popularity among investors and collectors alike for its timeless design and qualities. As one of the best minimalist watches available on the market today, it promises substantial investment opportunities in the Rolex catalogue.
Key features:
Model: 124300
Case Size: 41mm
Material: Stainless steel
Bezel: Stainless steel, Domed
Dial: Bright Black
Bracelet: Stainless steel, Oyster
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 3230
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Water-resistance: 100 metres
Price: £5550
8. Rolex Sky-Dweller, Reference 336935 in 18ct Everose gold
The Rolex Sky-Dweller is the most technologically advanced model in the brand's entire lineup. The Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935 in 18ct Everose gold paired with an Oyster bracelet is perfect for those who appreciate modern luxury and want a watch that combines advanced technology with a prestigious appearance. Honestly, there's something about wearing gold Rolex. It's often regarded as a statement.
The Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935 is a full Everose gold model with a stunning blue-green dial. It comes nestled in a robust 42mm gold case surrounded by a matching fluted bezel. The impressive blue Rolex Sky-Dweller dial houses all the features one would typically expect from the Sky-Dweller, including a fixed inverted red triangle, an off-centre 24-hour disc, and a deep red rectangle in one of the 12 windows around the dial indicating the current month. This ingenious mechanism, along with the bold aesthetic, makes it a Rolex worth investing in.
The Sky-Dweller 336935 is ideal for someone with a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for Rolex's intricate craftsmanship. Considering how the secondary market prices for many Sky-Dweller models have not just increased but exceeded their original retail values, it's safe to say the Sky-Dweller 336935 will hold its value well over time.
Key features:
Model: 336935
Case Size: 42mm
Material: 18ct Everose gold
Bezel: Bidirectional, Fluted Ring Command
Dial: Blue-Green
Bracelet: 18ct Everose Gold, Oyster
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 9002
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Water-resistance: 100 metres
Price: £46,300
9. Rolex Yacht-Master 42, Reference 226658, in 18ct Yellow gold
Rolex released the first Yacht-Master in 1992 in a solid yellow-gold construction. 30 years later, the Swiss watchmaker released the Yacht-Master 42 Ref. 226658 in 18ct yellow gold, yet again. The luxurious, high-end nautical spirit of the Yacht-Master rightfully shines through in this timepiece. If you want a Rolex that can handle more than a splash, this dressed-up Yacht-Master has got you covered.
The 226658 Yacht-Master comes in a 42mm yellow gold case combined with a black Oysterflex bracelet. The black lacquered dial reinforces the sleek aesthetics of this model and features applied yellow gold hour markers, treated with Chromalight to glow in the dark. However, it comes without the red 'Yacht-Master' writing that was present on the model since its inception. Just like its siblings, the watch comes fitted with the black matte sandblasted finished Cerachrom bezel with raised markers and numbers. You will only find this matte bezel on the Yacht-Master, not any other professional Rolex model.
Certain variants of the Yacht-Master, especially the ones in Everose gold and Rolesor (steel and gold), have shown strong appreciation due to their limited availability and refined materials. So, as demand for professional Rolex watches grows, the value of Yacht-Master Ref. 226658 is expected to drive up over time.
Key features:
Model: 226658
Case Size: 42mm
Material: 18ct Yellow gold
Bezel: Bidirectional, 60-minute graduated, Black Cerachrom insert in ceramic
Dial: Black
Bracelet: Oysterflex
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 3235
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Water-resistance: 100 metres
Price: £26,600
10. Rolex Sea-Dweller, Reference 126603, in Stainless steel & 18ct Yellow gold
Rolex released the two-tone signature Sea-Dweller 126603 at Basel World 2019, and since then, the watch has become a topic of conversation among fans for its luxurious detailing. Sure, it functions perfectly as a diving instrument, offering a stable water resistance of 220 metres, but that's not what this watch is about. The addition of gold adds opulence to this otherwise practical timepiece.
No one could have thought a two-tone deep diver could look this good! It's the first time that Rolex has used gold for a Sea-Dweller, and it's undoubtedly very luxurious. The Sea-Dweller 126603 comes in steel and 18ct yellow gold case measuring 43mm and has an automatic helium escape valve. The black ceramic bezel insert is further enhanced with gold-toned numerals, and the steel black dial features large Chromalight hour markers and hands, and the name 'Sea-Dweller' is inscribed in a yellow hue. The watch is presented on a steel and gold Oyster bracelet to allow for greater comfort.
Judging by its popularity on the launch day, the Sea-Dweller 126603 will definitely pick up prices in the coming days. The collectors appreciate the combination of gold's allure with the watch's practical abilities. Therefore, whatever happens, the Sea-Dweller 126603 will hold its initial market value well.
Key features:
Model: 126603
Case Size: 43mm
Material: Stainless steel & 18ct Yellow gold
Bezel: Unidirectional, 60-minute Graduated, Cerachrom insert in Black Ceramic
Dial: Intense Black
Bracelet: Stainless steel & 18ct Yellow gold, Oyster
Movement: Automatic, Calibre 3235
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Water-resistance: 1220 metres
Price: £16,450
For many years, Rolex has been seen not just as luxury pieces but tangible assets that yield good returns upon reselling. While many of us anticipate the brand's latest offerings in the coming year, investors are eyeing Rolex watches that are set to deliver substantial returns.
While we've already shared our suggestions on that, it's also worth mentioning why the Swiss Maison is considered an 'investment' year after year.
Why Rolex is a good investment for 2025?
It's that time of the year again when collectors and investors alike gear up to find out what's in store for them in the year ahead. And, well, it isn’t even a question anymore why collectors love Rolex. The Swiss watch brand is known for increasing its prices twice yearly, once in January and then again in June. So, it will probably do the same in 2025 as well.
According to data from past years, the price of Rolex watches has increased by around 4%. As the market increases, this price is set to increase as well. Therefore, the pre-owned market for Rolex watches will grow exponentially, yet again.
However, there is something to understand here: there are no quick wins. Making money with watches requires time and patience. If you buy a Rolex with the intention of making a profit, you might have to wait a few years to make a substantial profit. Meanwhile, enjoy wearing your Rolex and discover what makes it so special.
We have curated the Rolex list above, keeping all the data and growth rates in mind. So you can be sure you are putting your money where it belongs.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, 2025 presents an exciting opportunity for collectors and watch enthusiasts alike. With Rolex's ever-growing demand and timeless craftsmanship, the right models are set to make waves in the market. When buying Rolex, don't let only market trends guide your decision. Consider the watch's precision, style, exclusivity and timeless appeal to make a fruitful investment.
Another key factor to consider is the type of Rolex you purchase, whether new or pre-owned. Honestly, there are several reasons why pre-owned Rolex is a smart investment.
New Rolex models, especially the ones with high demand like the Daytona, GMT-Master II and Submariner, may appreciate quickly due to long waiting lists. However, new models have higher entry costs and, no matter what, you have to face the initial depreciation. On the other hand, pre-owned Rolex watches typically offer higher returns immediately as they have already passed the initial depreciation.
So, the choice is yours to make. Consider all the factors to enjoy owning a slice of horological history that will endure for generations.