5 Cheapest Rolex Watches To Start Your Collection

Owning a Rolex is a dream nurtured by many, but the hefty price tags keep them aloof. Why do you always have to pay an exorbitant sum for something you truly love? The good news is that although the bar is high for entry into the world of Rolex, the price varies considerably. And if you look into it, there are actually quite a handful of Rolex watches you can own for less.

Several affordable Rolex watches are available that you can add to your collection for a surprisingly reasonable amount. These timepieces offer more than an attractive entry cost and feature a selection of captivating designs that have stood the test of time, captivating generations with their enduring charm, reliability and versatility.

Why Buying Cheap Rolex Models Is A Smart Starting Point?

Beginning your Rolex journey with one of the cheapest Rolex watches provides unique advantages that extend beyond their initial price point. These watches combine Rolex’s modern manufacturing techniques with proven design elements, resulting in timepieces that offer exceptional experience while retaining their value over time. 

Rolex watches, regardless of their price range, demonstrate remarkable stability in the pre-owned market. When maintained properly, they often appreciate in value over time. Their combination of timeless design, brand prestige, and reliability offers a lasting appeal that transcends market fluctuations.

Therefore, buying an affordable Rolex to start your collection is one of the wisest decisions you’d make.

Begin Your Collection With These 5 Cheap Rolex Models

Unlike what you may expect, the selection of low-priced Rolex models is quite varied, offering distinct personalities and capabilities. If you’re just starting out your collection, here are the five models you’d want to consider.

1. Rolex ‘Oyster Perpetual’ Reference 124300

Priced at: £5650

The Oyster Perpetual is Rolex’s flagship model for entry-level watches. It combines the brand’s two most important design attributes: an automatic ‘Perpetual’ movement and a water-resistant ‘Oyster’ case. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches have a classic, minimalist design, with time-only dials and three-link Oyster bracelets. It is the Rolex without any unnecessary whistles.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual reference 124300 is what you call classic elegance, portraying the timeless spirit of the OP. The 41mm Oystersteel case is gently curved and sits well on the wrist. The straightforward, unpretentious silver dial with gold accents creates delicate light reflections and is spectacular when viewed at close quarters.

Finally, it is worn on a comfortable and sturdy steel Oyster bracelet. Everything displays Rolex’s superior quality and precision, from the top of the sapphire crystal to the brushing on the case back.

Key Features

• 41mm stainless steel case
• Smooth steel bezel
• Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Self-winding Calibre 3230 movement
• 70 hours of power reserve
• 100 metres water resistance
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

2. Rolex ‘Datejust’ Reference 126200

Priced at: £6750

The Datejust has been a mainstay in Rolex’s catalogue since 1945 and stands as the quintessential Rolex model. It was the first wristwatch to feature an automatically changing date feature on the dial, a revolutionary move at the time. The Datejust embodies the essence of Rolex in its purest form, and although Rolex has updated its design several times, it continues to maintain its fundamental elegance.

The Datejust reference 126200 is a stylish and reliable timepiece, perfect for both casual and formal wear. It is made of Oystersteel and has a sleek 36mm case. When you first see this Datejust, the beautiful blue dial captures your attention. The watch is set on a Jubilee bracelet that flows seamlessly from the well-proportioned case.

This Rolex Datejust 126200 is practical, versatile, and wears brilliantly. While some may consider it dressy, the bracelet’s sporty nature helps to give it a modern twist. This is a great all-rounder and a great investment Rolex.

Key Features

• 36mm stainless steel case
• Domed steel bezel
• Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Self-winding Calibre 3235 movement
• 70 hours of power reserve
• 100 metres water resistance
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet

3. Rolex ‘Explorer’ Reference 124270

Priced at: £6400

Looking for a Rolex sports model? Introduced in 1953, the Explorer combines rugged durability with refined aesthetics. It was introduced after Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary’s successful expedition to the summit of Mt. Everest. Built to withstand extreme conditions, from caves to mountains and polar environments, the Rolex Explorer excels in both form and function.

The Rolex Explorer reference 124270 is made from 904L steel, which makes it corrosion-resistant and gives it a better shine. This Explorer looks downright luxurious on the wrist with the smooth polished bezel and crisp black dial. The dial has the respected 3-6-9 layout alternating with the blocks of lume, making it easy to read.

As a whole, this Rolex Explorer model is the perfect piece to wear every day. Whether it’s the size, the appeal, or the overall fit, the watch is the distillation of Rolex ethos at its best.

Key Features

• 36mm stainless steel case
• Smooth steel bezel
• Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Self-winding Calibre 3230 movement
• 70 hours of power reserve
• 100 metres water resistance
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

4. Rolex ‘Air-King’ Reference 126900

Priced at: £6600

The Air-King is one of Rolex’s oldest collections, released in 1945 to honour the pilots who fought in the Battle of Britain. Its simple design ensures maximum legibility, and its rich heritage makes it an all-time classic pilot’s watch. Recent references of the Rolex Air-King showcase technical advancements incorporated with redesigned cases, enhanced magnetic resistance, and improved water resistance, making the models attractive to collectors.

The Rolex Air-King 126900 is one of the best modern Rolex watches on the market. It comes in a 40mm professional stainless steel case without any functional bezel, making it a time-only wristpiece. The black dial has applied luminous markers at 3-6-9 as well as printed Arabic numbers in five-minute intervals, making the watch look very pilot-esque. The hint of green on the second hand and Rolex moniker makes this Air-King pop. The bracelet is made of Oystersteel and is equipped with an Easylink comfort extension link for further adjustment.

On the wrist, this Role Air-King is sporty but slim enough to be called refined. The wild dial makes it appealing, charming, and fun, and in all fairness, this timepiece demonstrates how Rolex fuses and adapts historical models to contemporary preferences.

Key Features

• 40mm stainless steel case
• Smooth steel bezel
• Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Self-winding Calibre 3230 movement
• 70 hours of power reserve
• 100 metres water resistance
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

5. Rolex ‘Submariner’ No-Date Reference 124060

Priced at: £8100

Arguably, the most desired Rolex watch of all time is the iconic Submariner, whose instantly recognisable design, incredible water resistance, and functional bezel set a benchmark for all divers’ watches. It was the first watch to offer a water resistance of up to 100 metres, a notable achievement at the time. Although most Submariner models show the date complication, it is also available without the date.

The Rolex Submariner reference 124060 is a modern 40mm-sized Sub that is a bit bigger on the wrist. It has that satisfying unidirectional bezel with a black ceramic insert, and each numeral is platinum-filled for legibility and durability. The dial is the same deep gloss black with ‘Maxi’ white and white gold surround markers and no date. The Oyster bracelet still has an Oysterlock folding safety clasp for micro-adjustment.

Considering its desirability, it’s hard to believe there’s a ‘Submariner’ amongst Rolex’s cheapest watches. And, as it happens, the Submariner is also amongst the best Rolex watches for investment.

Key Features

• 41mm stainless steel case
• Unidirectional Black ceramic bezel
• Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Self-winding Calibre 3230 movement
• 70 hours of power reserve
• 300 metres of water resistance
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

Closing Thoughts

Getting a cheaper Rolex watch doesn’t necessarily mean you have to compromise on the quality or style. The watches listed here often serve as foundations for serious collections, offering a design that captivates both seasoned and novice collectors who appreciate their understated elegance. They offer the perfect balance of accessibility and luxury.

We chose the models not simply for their price but for their ability to deliver the complete Rolex experience, including robust construction, sophisticated finishing, precise timekeeping, and excellent value for your investment.

 So, get ready to begin your journey with these 5 Rolex models that will remain relevant regardless of changing fashion or trends.