The Trajectory of the Rolex Market - What Does the Future Hold?
Are you a watch aficionado or a newly minted watch enthusiast? Whether you are just a beginner learning about designer watch brands, or have years of experience collecting and selling watches, Rolex has never been far off anyone's radar.
Learning about the unique attributes of luxury watches is fun, exciting, and rewarding. This brief blog post provides some insights on the topic, offering need-to-know information on these highly valued watches.
Origin & Beginnings
Rolex is a British-founded Swiss watch designer and manufacturing company based in Geneva Switzerland. Originally called Wilsdorf and Davis, Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London. The company registered the name Rolex for their brand of watches in 1908, becoming Rolex Watch Co. Ltd. in 1915.
Rolex moved its operations to Geneva after World War I. In 1920, Hans Wilsdorf registered Montres (Montres is French for Watch) Rolex SA in Geneva as the new company name, latering becoming Rolex SA. Rolex SA and its subsidiary Montres Tudor SA design, make, distribute, and service wristwatches sold under the Rolex and Tudor brands. Since 1960-, Rolex has been owned by the private family trust, Hans Wilsdorf Foundation.
According to the official Rolex website, 1926-1945 were significant dates in Rolex watchmaking history. In 1926, Rolex created the first waterproof watch, proven as a successful endeavor when English swimmer, Mercedes Gleitze, wore it for a swim that lasted for over 10 hours.
Rolex invented the world's first self-winding mechanism with a Perpetual rotor, creating a significant breakthrough in watchmaking still popularized in present watchmaking design. The natural movement of the arm powers the movement of the watch using its patented technology.
Why Shop Rolex?
The Ultimate Status Watch
Rolex has an undeniable long-held reputation for creating prestigious timepieces that are highly sought-after worldwide. Rolex is synonymous with high-quality, luxury, and is often associated with wealth and status because of their price points, making them truly exclusive.
Celebrities, athletes, movie stars,and singers, along with the higher echelons of society are frequently photographed wearing these pricey timepieces, making them highly visible for the watch lover, reminding people they are still popular.
Always In-Demand
Today, Forbes states Rolex produces more than 800,000 watches annually in more than 100 countries. This means the demand exceeds the production supply, making pre-owned watches great for a second-hand market.
According to the South China Morning Post, luxury watches have been a good investment over the years, who have out-performed assets in other areas–this includes gold and the stock market for the past decade.
Durable & Long-Lasting
Rolex watches have a reputation for being durable and long-lasting because of their high-quality designs, making them the perfect choice for those who seek an heirloom or precious timepiece collectible.
A Smart Investment Over Time
Here are some things to consider before purchasing your Rolex.
Certain Models: According to the Watch Centre, some Rolexes hold their value better than others; therefore it is important to do well thought-out research prior to making a purchase. Some timeless/popular Rolex models may include the Daytona, Day-Date with the President bracelet, Milgauss and Submariner. These models may hold or increase their value depending on the market.
PRE-OWNED ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL DAYTONA WATCH
PRE-OWNED ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL SUBMARINER WATCH
PRE-OWNED ROLEX PRESIDENT DAY-DATE WATCH
Condition & Age: What year was the watch manufactured? Knowing the history of the watch, age, and condition will help determine if you are making a wise purchase for your pre-owned Rolex selection.
Materials: Rolex only uses premium materials. Fine (precious metals), stainless steel, ceramic elements, mother of pearl, precious stones, and diamonds guarantees the watch will be a work of innovative art and timeless luxury. Knowing the materials of the watch will help increase or decrease the value of the watch.
Authenticity: Unfortunately, there is a large market for counterfeit merchandise, including knock-off Rolexes. Having certifications from retailers or independent jewelry companies offering insurance papers for the Rolex, along with serial/certification numbers will eliminate fear and doubt.
Knowing the origin of the Rolex is vital, accompanied by the original box and papers, and possibly, the original purchase receipt. Asking for clarification and double-checking the Rolex watch is genuine is well-worth your time.
Guaranteed Authenticity and 2 Years Warranty on Select Watches
At STORE 5a, our in-house watch experts check and verify the authenticity of each and every piece so that customers are guaranteed to be purchasing a 100% real and genuine product.
As a part of Diamond Cellar, each piece goes through our in-house team of Swiss-certified watchmakers, experienced technicians, and refinishers.
Browse our pre-owned Rolex collection online or visit us in-store to find your next investment watch.
