Rolex watches are synonymous with top-tier Swiss watchmaking, so they top any collector’s list of desirable timepieces. This isn’t surprising since Rolex is arguably the world's most popular and most influential watchmaker.

It’s a thing of prestige to own a Rolex wristwatch, and that’s why every watch-loving connoisseur already has at least one Rolex on their wishlist or in their collection. In the real sense, it doesn’t really matter which Rolex model you end up buying. The watchmaker has created many notable collections and references throughout its 119-year history, so much so that it’s almost impossible to pick the absolute best one. 

This also makes collecting Rolex watches a daunting adventure. Even experienced collectors will have difficulty settling on the best Rolex to buy. When they do, getting their hands on the specific model on their wishlist is another challenge due to each piece's high demand and limited supply. In this post, we will list some of the most notable Rolex watches beloved by enthusiasts in the watch-collecting world to give you an idea of which Rolex watches to consider adding to your collection. 

Rolex Submariner ref. 16610

The Rolex Submariner isn’t just the most iconic Rolex watch ever, it is one of the most popular timepieces in watch collection circles. Released in 1953, the “sub,” as it is fondly called, is the one watch that succinctly defines the luxury sports and diving watch categories.  

Rolex has produced several Submariner models over the years, but the Submariner Ref 16610, which was in production between 1988 to 2010, is one of the most notable examples. This Submariner model has a vintage flair but can still fit into everyday situations thanks to its timeless appeal. 

For collectors looking for a fun fact to convince them to add this piece to their collection, the Submariner ref. 16610 is the last Submariner Date watch with a five-digit reference number and the famous aluminum bezel inlay. 

This submariner model has a 40mm casing made entirely of corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel. It comes with the famous three-piece link Oyster bracelet, enhancing its classic appearance. 

Rolex Daytona ref. 116500LN

The Daytona ref. 116500LN is part of Rolex’s line of racing-inspired watches. The Cosmograph Daytona was launched in 1963, and Rolex has produced several notable timepieces for this collection since then. The Ref 116500LN joined the Daytona catalog in 2016 and instantly became a fan favorite. 

Although Rolex has released several Daytona models over the years with subtle tweaks to their design, the ref 116500LN has arguably the biggest update in recent years. The most notable feature of this watch is the platinum-coated ceramic bezel which gives it an unmistakable retro look despite being a modern Daytona at heart. It is available in white and black dial options, with the white dial variant being more popular. 

Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116710LN

The GMT-Master II 116710LN is a version of Rolex’s famous luxury dual-time travel watch, the GMT-Master II collection. This GMT watch variant was in production from 2007 till 2019, when it was eventually discontinued. 

This particular GMT-Master II model is a potentially valuable collectible timepiece because it has several unique aesthetic properties. It is the first stainless steel GMT timepiece to feature the Cerachrom bezel and the last model with a single-color bezel insert. 

Other Rolex GMT watches are known for their bicolor bezel, which has become the collection's signature. The Ref 116710LN has a solid black ceramic bezel matched with a classic black dial, contributing to its elegant appearance. It’s a captivating design sure to captivate enthusiasts looking for GMT-Master II that looks completely different from all the other models in the collection. 

Rolex Daytona ref. 116523

If you’re a fan of Rolex watches with a unique and distinctive appearance, this Daytona model should be on your list. The sporty Daytona Ref 116523 flaunts an impressive two-tone case which looks quite different from anything else in the Daytona lineup. It pairs a yellow Rolesor bezel with an Oyster Steel casing. This yellow-gold color is also used for the center link of the Oyster bracelet.

Even more interesting is that this watch was the first two-tone reference to feature Rolex’s in-house caliber 4130 movement, produced in 2000. This watch has a dressy mother-of-pearl dial in different sophisticated colors to enhance its appearance further. 

The bezel has a  400-kilometer tachymeter bezel, which is useful for calculating driving speeds, while the chronograph is used to track elapsed time. Overall the two-tone design of this watch, its modest 40mm case size, and other physical attributes exude a sense of sportiness and luxury.

Rolex Day-Date ref. 118208

Many collectors and horological enthusiasts consider the Rolex Day-Date (the Rolex President) the quintessential gold watch for men. For Rolex fans looking for super luxurious Rolex for sale, watches in this collection are the best choice. 

This model, in particular ( the Day-Date ref. 118208), is a 6-digit version of the presidential watch which means it is a relatively modern iteration. It comes with a classic design but features the latest Rolex technology. 

The case is made out of 18k yellow gold with a robust Oyster case design matched with flat-link Oyster bracelets (instead of the standard President bracelet used in the watches in this collection). This choice of the bracelet gives this watch a sportier aesthetic compared to others within the same collection without losing its sophisticated aesthetic appeal. 

Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea ref. 116660

It’s hard to create a list of iconic Rolex watches for collectors without including a Rolex Sea-Dweller timepiece. This watch belongs to Rolex’s family of dive watches that pioneered this niche of the watch industry several decades ago. 

The earliest Sea-Dweller watches could reach depths up to 500 meters, with Rolex gradually improving the depth rating. This culminated in the release of this version of the Sea-Dweller, known as the Deepsea, in 2008. 

The 44mm stainless steel tool watch was capable of deep diving to depths of up to 4,000 feet which was an impressive feat at the time. This watch also had a distinctive appearance with a black dial and black Cerachrom Bezel. If you’re considering adding a dive watch to your collection, the Deepsea Ref. 116660 should be at the top of your list of considerations. 

Rolex Air-King ref. 14000

The Rolex Air-King ref. 14000 is a true classic for Rolex lovers who prefer traditional watches. It belongs to the watchmaker’s family of elegant and sporty pilot watches produced since 1930. However, the Air King 14000 only joined the line-up in 1989. 

The biggest selling point of this timepiece is its simplicity. The Air-King ref. 14000 is one of the simplest Rolex watches ever, and that’s bound to appeal to some buyers. It has a versatile 34mm casing, smaller than most modern watches, including newer Air King models. This watch also has a simple time-only dial, a smooth bezel, and a stainless steel Oyster bracelet. 

The Air King Ref. 14000 was the first timepiece with a sapphire crystal in the Air King collection. This is a favorable attribute as far as collectibility is concerned. It is also quite affordable as one of the most understated Rolex watches ever made. This simple pilot's watch sells for $3,500 or less in the secondary market. An affordable piece like this is the perfect watch to kickstart your Rolex watch collection journey. 

Rolex Explorer ref. 14270

The Rolex Explorer is one of Rolex’s first “viral” watches, having gained popularity in the 1950s for being the watch on the wrist of the first explorers to reach the peak of Mt Everest. In the following decades, the Explorer became the symbol of a fun and adventurous spirit but also had a dressy edge that made it wearable for formal occasions. 

The reference 14270 was released in 1989 to carry on this legacy while introducing some innovative features to the collection. Many seasoned collectors consider this piece the earliest modern sports watch produced by the Rolex brand, which is why it enjoys a cult following in the horological world.

When the Explorer ref 14270 was released, the 36mm watch came with a newly redesigned dial and an entirely new movement. However, the sheer number of variations Rolex produced for this single reference is the most intriguing about this watch. Rolex’s experiments aimed at refining various aspects of the Explorer 14270’s design led to several variants with unique qualities and short production runs - attributes that make them valuable to an average collector. 

Conclusion 

The list of iconic Rolex watches that’ll make a perfect addition to any watchmaker’s collection is inexhaustive. This list of must-have Rolex timepieces showcases some of the best watches to consider. However, your buying depends on several factors, such as your budget, model availability, and personal preferences.