Age: How the Value of a 1950’s Rolex Will Differ From a 1980’s Rolex

When people talk about vintage watches, today they generally mean watches that were manufactured at least 30 years ago – perhaps between the 1950’s and the 1970’s. These watches, especially steel ones from this time, are breaking price records. Particular Daytona models, a watch by Rolex, have been nick-named “The Paul Newman”, having long been identified with the famed actor. His actual watch recently fetched about $18,000,000. While there was only one that he actually wore – and so just one to achieve that price - the watches from this period are highly sought after. And we’d part with treasure for a similar one.

Recently Purchased: Vintage Rolex GMT-Master Yellow Gold, 1675

Rarity: Low Supply and High Demand Means the Best Value for Your Vintage Rolex Can Be Had Now

Unlike modern watches, it’s acceptable when a vintage watch shows some characteristics of wear and tear. Here are some of the characteristics a watch buyer will look for when determining value:

Condition: Wear and Tear Doesn’t Necessarily Impact the Value of a Vintage Rolex

Unlike modern watches, it’s acceptable when a vintage watch shows some characteristics of wear and tear. Here are some of the characteristics a watch buyer will look for when determining value:

• Original Parts: Vintage watch collectors are enthusiastic about original parts. The value of your vintage Rolex will increase if it has its original dial, movement, or bezel. Many are under the mistaken belief that if they overhaul their old watch with new parts it adds value. Untrue. Vintage Rolex watches that have been updated with new movements, dials or bezels might still be valuable but won’t achieve the same prices as watches that come with original parts.
• Tropical Dial: Once considered an undesirable flaw, the sun-faded brown or orange-colored dials of vintage Rolex watches are now highly collectable. Each dial is unique and faded its own way. Since modern watches aren’t prone to sun-fading, Tropical Dials are typically found only in watches produced before the 1980’s, making these vintage Rolex watches a pretty rare and sometimes expensive find.
  

  

  Recently Purchased: Vintage Rolex Explorer Stainless Steel, 1016
• Desirable Defects: Manufacture defects are rare, especially for an authority like Rolex, so if you have a defect like a misprint on your dial, that’s of a point of interest.
• Overall Wear: Some scratches and marks are expected in a vintage watch that’s been worn for decades. However, there are other signs of wear that could affect the value of a vintage Rolex. As with any watch, water damage on or inside the watch, as well as missing or broken hands, dial markers, or crystals could negatively impact the value you receive. But regardless of the condition, a vintage Rolex is still collectable and a qualified buyer, such as a CIRCA buyer, will be able to offer the best value for your vintage Rolex.
• Original Box / Papers: Original box and papers are not necessary to sell your watch, but these documents can add a lot of value if you still have them.

Values for Vintage Rolex Models Are on The Rise:

Our collectors are asking, so we’re buying – and buying for a price you won’t find anywhere else. The President, Datejust, Daytona, Sea-Dweller, Submariner, Explorer, and GMT Master – including the Root Beer, Pepsi and Coke models - are the most highly sought-after vintage Rolex models.