The Top 4 Rolex to start your vintage collection

Rolex Day-Date 1803 "Presidents Watch"

The vintage Rolex Day-Date 1803 serves as an excellent entry point for those looking to add Rolex's flagship collection to their collection of timepieces. Often referred to as the "Rolex President," this classic dress watch is an essential piece that can stand alone as a luxurious accessory. What sets this particular Rolex 1803 apart is its "pie pan" dial. This unique feature gives the watch an inherent vintage aesthetic and sets it apart from all other Day-Date references. With the Rolex President 1803, you'll have a timeless model with an iconic retro touch that's sure to enhance your watch collection and always have a special place in it.

Another feature we adore about this watch is the 36mm case made of solid 18k gold, which is complemented by the iconic fluted bezel that perfectly accentuates the unique pie-pan dial. As Rolex's flagship collection, the Day-Date reference 1803 is powered by an in-house COSC chronometer-certified automatic movement that showcases the date of the month and the day of the week, spelled out in full and available in multiple languages. Many consider the Rolex Day-Date to be the world's most renowned gold watch, and the reference 1803 is the quintessential vintage model of this iconic timepiece that's instantly recognizable.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date 1500

If you are a collector searching for a premium vintage timepiece, the yellow gold Rolex Date 1500 is an excellent choice. While the regular stainless steel Rolex Date is among the most budget-friendly vintage Rolex watches available today, the reference 1500 takes the classic design to a whole new level of luxury by substituting stainless steel with solid 14k yellow gold. This unexpected execution creates a timeless watch with a high-end feel that is sure to be a cherished addition to any collection.

The 34mm case of the yellow gold Rolex Date 1500 offers a versatile and comfortable fit for wearers of different wrist sizes, making it a great option for those seeking a classic vintage Rolex watch. Unlike other popular Rolex models like the Datejust and Day-Date, this watch features a slightly more compact profile that adds to its universal appeal. Crafted from solid 14k yellow gold, the watch is available with either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet style in matching 14k gold. The model’s iconic fluted bezel adds a touch of luxury and sets it apart from other stainless steel Rolex Date models, which often feature smooth bezels. Despite its use of a lower karat gold, the Rolex Date 1500 still manages to exude a sense of refined luxury that is characteristic of the Rolex brand.

Vintage Rolex GMT-Master 16753

A vintage Rolex collection does not have to start with a traditional three-handed watch; the brand's legendary innovative tool watches are also great investments. The GMT-Master 16753 is a great example of this, as it remains as cool and functional today as it was decades ago when it was first produced. Originally designed for pilots in conjunction with Pan Am Airlines, the GMT-Master collection features an additional 24-hour hand and a rotating 24-hour bezel, which allows it to simultaneously display two different time zones. While the Rolex GMT-Master is ideal for pilots, it also makes an excellent travel watch and has become one of the brand's most popular models.

The GMT-Master reference 16753 is a stunning stainless steel and yellow gold version of this iconic pilot's watch. The combination of warm yellow gold with durable stainless steel is a winner, especially when paired with either a brown or black dial and matching bezel insert. With its vintage style and luxurious twist on the original utilitarian design, this watch is a true standout. Interestingly, despite its higher price tag when first released, pre-owned examples of the two-tone GMT-Master 16753 can now be found for roughly the same price as their standard stainless steel counterparts, making this model an excellent value for collectors.

Rolex Submariner 1680

If you are looking for a vintage Rolex sports watch that has a strong history and doesn't feature any precious metals, then we recommend the Submariner 1680. Although this model may cost more than a newer version of Rolex's famous dive watch, it is a worthwhile investment as the reference 1680 is widely regarded as the ultimate vintage Submariner.

The Rolex Submariner reference 1680 was in production from the late 1960s until the middle of the 1970s, and it was made with all three styles of Submariner dials (gilt, matte, and gloss with white gold hour markers), depending on the production year. This variation makes it a highly sought-after model among vintage Rolex collectors, with a range of prices to suit different budgets. The watch is made entirely from stainless steel and is powered by a non-chronometer rated movement, embodying the essence of a no-frills tool watch. Despite the brand's ascent to the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking, the practical and functional design of the Submariner 1680 is what makes it truly special.