The historical significance and likeability of a brand like Rolex leads many to set their sites on amassing a significant amount of Rolex pieces. One can often see the incredible Rolex collections from the community on social media. Certain models have become incredibly sought after and iconic - of course one’s mind goes directly to the Rolex Submariner or Rolex Daytona. With Sub’s and vintage Daytona’s selling for incredibly high records at auction, and stories of them being featured in well-respected news publications, it is only natural to feel intimidated to get into the hobby of collecting Rolex watches.

The intimidation one can feel can make one not know where to start. What model should be the first Rolex one should buy? Is it all original? Should I got for vintage or modern? Did this reference come in this configuration? All of these questions are natural and everyone asked them when they first got into collecting. Luckily, Rolex has a fairly well documented history that collectors can reference when they are getting into collecting. This book that was covered on the website is a great place to start. And with this knowledge, here are two great models, and references, to start your Rolex journey with.

The Rolex Datejust is an icon that needs no introduction. The model was released to celebrate Rolex’s 40th anniversary and combined the achievements of the Oyster case, the self-winding movement, and the chronometer certification that Hans Wilsdorf pushed his company to conquer. Both vintage and modern Datejust’s are a great place to begin one’s collecting journey. The model is versatile in it’s design, can be worn for many occasions, both formal and casual. It demonstrates the abilities and prowess of Rolex and what they can achieve. The reference 1601 is a great reference to start with. At 36mm, it is pretty wearable for most. They came in many different variations as well which makes it collectible by nature.

Another model to consider is the Rolex Explorer II. The Explorer II was first released in 1971 and used a similar complication as the GMT-Master’s where additional time-zones can be recognized. Again, one is getting a great complication that is functional, similar to the Rolex Datejust’s date function. It shows what Rolex can create, and comes in an iconic case that is thought of by many as one of the most wearable case designs to date. The reference 16570 would be an easy place to start for the Explorer II. The reference is 40mm in diameter, which opens it up to be wearable for more people. The reference came with black and white dial variations, the white being more sought-after.

Both models offer three main components - wearability, they demonstrate Rolex’s abilities, and documented history that makes them easy to research and collect. These three ingredients should be considered as one builds out their Rolex collection. So the only question remains - what’s next for you?

Enjoy!