Who among us wouldn’t be amazed by the stunning luxury watches from Rolex?
With their elegant designs, fine materials, and outstanding craftsmanship, I bet no one could ever resist them.
Unless… you can’t afford them.
But what if I tell you that there are few Rolex watch models that have a reasonable price for average men like us?
Yes, that is true. There are some real Rolexes that we can afford too!
Last time, we featured the most shockingly affordable luxury watches made by different luxury brands. Today, in this guide, we will show you the 10 cheapest Rolex watches you might consider owning in the future.
So if you want to know more about these entry-level Rolex watches, keep reading along!
Related: Rolex Look Alikes On Amazon
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What’s The Cheapest Rolex Watch?
Here are the 10 most affordable Rolex watches on the market.
#1. Rolex Air-King Ref. 14000 – $5,000
- Dimensions: 34mm diameter, 11mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
If you are looking for a cheap Rolex watch, the Rolex Air-King Ref. 14000 might be the timepiece you’ve been looking for.
It features a salmon time-only dial with an Arabic numeral index and a smooth stainless steel bezel. It is also paired with a Rolex signature stainless steel Oyster bracelet.
You can own it for the price of $5,000.
#2. Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 11600 – $6,400
- Dimensions: 36mm diameter, 11mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 177200 is one of the most affordable options if you want an elegant luxury watch without breaking the bank. It has a stainless steel case with a gorgeous blue dial that is protected by a scratch-proof sapphire crystal.
This model from the Oyster Perpetual collection has a pre-owned market price of only $6,400.
#3. Rolex Air-King Ref. 5500 – $6,500
- Dimensions: 34mm diameter, 11mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Plexiglass
Another affordable Rolex watch on this list is the Rolex Air-King Ref. 5500. Rolex introduced this model in 1957.
This vintage Rolex model is powered by an automatic movement that Rolex calls the calibre 1520. It also boasts one of the cleanest and most understated Rolex designs of all time.
This piece is a perfect entry point if you want to start building your own watch collection. The starting price of this watch is around $6,500.
#4. Rolex Datejust Ref. 16200 – $7,000
- Dimensions: 36mm diameter, 11.6mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
This versatile watch doesn’t only boast an elegant design. It is also powered by a high-precision automatic movement, certified by COSC, as indicated by the “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified” text on its silver dial.
The Rolex Datejust Ref. 16200 is one of the cheaper Rolex watches you can own if you have a tight budget. It has a list price of $7,000.
#5. Rolex Datejust Ref. 16233 – $8,000
- Dimensions: 36mm diameter, 12.3mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
This two-toned Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust is a timeless classic statement piece in the Rolex catalog. It features a white dial with 18k yellow-gold Roman numeral hour markers, a yellow-gold Rolex fluted bezel, and a dual-toned jubilee bracelet.
This timepiece has a secondary market price of $8,000.
#6. Rolex Datejust Ref. 16234 -$8,000
- Dimensions: 36mm diameter, 11.7mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
The Rolex Datejust Ref. 16234 is another affordable Rolex piece for new collectors who want to build their own Rolex collection.
It has a stainless steel case that showcases a silver-white dial, protected by a sapphire crystal with a Cyclops lens on its date window. It is also paired with a jubilee bracelet.
Price-wise, it can only cost you $8,000.
#7. Rolex Air-King Ref. 116900 – $8,000
- Dimensions: 40mm diameter, 13.2mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
One of our personal favorites on this list is the Rolex Air-King Ref. 116900. Introduced in 2016 at Baselworld, this features a dial inspired by a Rolex-designed Bloodhound car dashboard clock and has a slightly bigger case compared to early models of Air-King Rolex watches.
It is one of the most underrated and cheapest Rolex pieces, with a price of $8,000.
#8. Rolex Explorer Ref. 14270 – $8,000
- Dimensions: 36mm diameter, 11.5mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
The Rolex Explorer Ref. 14270 is one of the senior members of the Explorer model collection, as it was released in 1989.
The Rolex Explorer collection was released by the brand to commemorate the triumph of Sir Edmund Hillary after he became one of the first men to summit Mount Everest.
This entry-level Rolex automatic watch has a market value of $8,000.
#9. Rolex Milgauss Ref. 116400 – $9,600
- Dimensions: 40mm diameter, 13.5mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
Unlike the Rolex Lady Datejust, this watch is famous not for its elegant and classy design (although it is still gorgeous).
However, the Rolex Milgauss is known for its capability to efficiently work and withstand 1000 gauss of magnetic fields.
This exceptional tool is perfect for professionals for their everyday work. It has a market price of $9,600.
#10. Rolex Explorer Ref. 214270 – $10,000
- Dimensions: 39mm diameter, 11.2mm thickness
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Water resistance: 100m
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
Last but not the least, here is the Rolex Explorer Ref. 214270. Unlike its early predecessors, it now has a much larger case and uses a sapphire crystal instead of acrylic crystal, which is common on other older models.
It has 100m water resistance with a Twinlock crown and luminous hour markers.
The current market price of the Rolex Explorer Ref. 214270 starts at $10,000.
How Much Is The Cheapest Rolex?
Generally speaking, the current cheapest price for a Rolex watch is around $5,000.
However, the “How much is the cheapest Rolex?” question is one of the most commonly asked when discussing Rolex watches.
But the answer to this question may vary and depends on the current state of the market.
Rolex Prices
Watches from Rolex have become some of the most sought-after and collectible timepieces on the market today, making the market price of the majority of their models exceed the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.
And this is especially true for their most popular models like Rolex Submariner and Cosmograph Daytona.
Besides this, a supply-demand mismatch and the thriving pre-owned market has forced up the Rolex price for the past years.
And to show you a general overview of the price of each Rolex watch model (as of today), here is an updated retail price chart.
| Category | Price |
| Datejust | Starting at $8,000 |
| Day-Date | Starting at $10,000 |
| Daytona | Starting at $15,100 |
| Submariner | Starting at $10,000 |
| Milgauss | Starting at $9,600 |
| GMT-Master II | Starting at $10,700 |
| Yacht Master | Starting at $11,500 |
| Sea-Dweller | Starting at $13,250 |
| Oyster Perpetual | Starting at $6,400 |
| Air King | Starting at $7,100 |
| Explorer | Starting at $8,000 |
| Sky-Dweller | Starting at $15,650 |
| 1908 | Starting at $20,000 |
Why Is Rolex So Expensive?
Status
Rolex has more than 100 years of fine watchmaking history. Over the years, they solidified their reputation as the most popular watchmaker who created some of the most iconic watches in the watch world.
They are famous for their exceptional craftsmanship, elegant designs, and highly functional and reliable timepieces.
And as a result of this, they are the go-to brand for celebrities across the world and have even been featured in some of the iconic Hollywood films such as James Bond.
Quality Materials
Rolex only uses top-tier quality materials in every piece of its watch. They are the first company to use 904L stainless steel in making watches. They also utilize precious metals, including yellow gold, white gold, and platinum.
Superior Craftsmanship
Every piece of Rolex watch is meticulously hand assembled by master watchmakers. They place a strong emphasis on the precision and artistry of watchmaking.
To ensure the high standard, accuracy, and quality of each piece, highly skilled watchmakers of the brand spend hours assembling and testing their watches before it goes out in their workshops.
Limited Supply
Rolex is believed to produce at least 800,000 to 1 million watches each year. But although they can deliver that much, these numbers can’t keep up with the high demand that the market needs.
And besides its limited supply, you can only buy their watches from Rolex authorized dealers.
How To Save Money On A Rolex?
Size Is Important
The general rule here is that the smaller the watch is, the cheaper its price tag is. But remember that this can be tricky.
If you buy a small watch, this means you can save a few hundred dollars. But this can be a problem if you have a larger wrist. Unless you don’t mind wearing a awkward looking watch.
Negotiate
You must learn how to negotiate. Generally, authorized Rolex dealers often apply a slight markup to the price, allowing for potential negotiation and the possibility of lowering the final cost.
If you’ve mastered this practically important skill, it will guarantee you save at least a few hundred bucks.
Opt For A Cheaper Bracelet
Like many dial options, you can also choose the bracelet that you can use for your Rolex watch. But if you want to save money, we recommend you pick the classic Oyster bracelet.
The Jubilee bracelet might look more elegant and sophisticated. But choosing this also means paying more for your watch.
Where To Buy The Cheapest Rolex?
Fashionphile
For more than 20 years, Fashionphile cemented its place as one of the world’s top resellers of pre-owned luxury items, including vintage Rolex and other modern models. They are known for curating high-quality supply and providing best-in-class shopping experiences for its customers.
Jomashop
Jomashop is one of the premier online shops who are selling some of the most sought-after luxury and fashion items to customers around the globe. They are known to only sell 100% authentic new and pre-owned Rolex watches.
Bob’s Watches
With more than 20 years in the business, Bob’s Watches has built a solid reputation as a reputable dealer of authentic and affordable Rolex watches. And like the Jomashop, Bob’s Watches offers a money-back guarantee option if you’re not satisfied with their product.
Is Rolex A Good Investment?
Yes! Owning and collecting Rolex watches can be a good investment for you.
Rolex is known for its reputation, craftsmanship, and desirability. And these reasons can affect its price appreciation. Watches made by them will retain market value. And most often, some of their models even doubled and tripled their prices over the years.
About Rolex
Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, the Rolex brand has more than 100 years of legacy of fine watchmaking and is one of the leaders of the Swiss watchmaking industry.
They are the company behind some of the most iconic and legendary luxury timepieces in the watch world.
Unlike many brands in the market, Rolex has a rich heritage and a long-standing reputation for excellence in creating elegant, durable, and reliable luxury watches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although Rolex watches are known for their hefty price tags, Patek Philippe watches are generally much more expensive.
As of 2023, the cheapest Rolex Datejust is the Oyster Perpetual Datejust Ref. 16200, which has a market price of $6,500.
Yes, due to a combination of several factors, getting brand-new or even pre-owned Rolex watches can be difficult.
Cheapest Rolex Watches – Conclusion
And that’s it! Those are the most affordable Rolex watches that average gents like us can buy.
We hope that this guide can help you decide on which Rolex model fits your budget as well as your taste and style. If you want an affordable Patek Philippe instead, discover our list to entry level Pateks.
And to have a short recap, here is 10 of the cheapest Rolex model that you can buy:
#1. Rolex Air-King Ref. 14000 – $5,000
#2. Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 11600 – $6,400
#3. Rolex Air-King Ref. 5500 – $6,500
#4. Rolex Datejust Ref. 16200 – $7,000
#5. Rolex Datejust Ref. 16233 – $8,000
#6. Rolex Datejust Ref. 16234 -$8,000
#7. Rolex Air-King Ref. 116900 – $8,000
#8. Rolex Explorer Ref. 14270 – $8,000
#9. Rolex Milgauss Ref. 116400 – $9,600
#10. Rolex Explorer Ref. 214270 – $10,000
Now that we know about the most affordable Rolex, how about checking out the most expensive Rolex piece ever sold? Learn more about this by reading our article about the most expensive watches in the world.
