The Best Pre-Owned Rolex Deals Right Now

It’s been a while since we highlighted some pre-owned Rolex watches. With prices at their lowest since July of 2021, per ChronoPulse’s Rolex Index, now feels like a good time to seek value in the pre-owned market. My chosen watches will come as familiar favorites to many, and in my opinion, they represent tremendous value in today’s Rolex market. While you can’t go wrong with these three picks, I encourage you to dig deeper and find the Rolex that interests you most; it's probably at its lowest price in years.

Rolex Datejust ref. 16234

Image Source: Kith x Wind Vintage (link below)

As a watch collector, I can't help but feel that a sub-$7,000 Datejust in great condition is a pretty sweet deal. It’s an iconic watch that goes with almost any outfit, and thanks to its Oyster case, it will outlive you if properly maintained.

The present listing is a steel Datejust 16234: a great unpolished example with a patinated silver dial. It has the classic fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet you’d hope for on a Datejust, but because of its all-steel construction, the watch is a bit more versatile and makes for great everyday wear.

There are plenty of nice 5-digit Datejusts under $7,000 and even $6,000. (5-digit refers to the reference number, e.g. 16234). With countless configurations to choose from (in the 160XX and 162XX reference families alone), I truly believe these watches represent some of the best value in pre-owned Rolex.

Rolex Submariner 14060(M)

Image Source: Analog:Shift

If you like the Submariner, particularly the 4 and 5-digit aluminum-bezel references like me, the Rolex Submariner ref. 14060 is worth considering. For under $10,000 (sometimes well under), you’re getting a special piece of Rolex history that I don’t see decreasing in price anytime soon.

The 14060 was introduced in 1990 and produced until 2010. This was the last Submariner without a date before Rolex switched to the modern Super Case design. It features an aluminum bezel insert instead of shiny ceramic, slim drilled lugs, and a symmetrical dateless dial—all in a comfy 40mm case. Inside, it runs on the reliable caliber 3000, which is modern, accurate, and easily serviceable. 

Rolex Submariner 14060(M) on Everest Curved End Rubber. Image Sources: @because_analog and @mhaymond1 on IG

If you like the look but want an upgraded movement, the 14060M offers the same aesthetics with a COSC-certified caliber 3130. We know from Rolex’s recently published Submariner production numbers that the 14060M outnumbers the 14060 (130,622 vs. 93,518), but whichever reference you choose, you’re getting a fantastic blend of vintage charm and modern reliability.

Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 16710 ‘Coke’

Image Source: Bezel

In 1989, Rolex released the GMT-Master II ref. 16710, which was a slimmer update to the first-ever GMT-Master II: the red-and-black 16760 ‘Fat Lady’. This update featured the slimmer caliber 3185, making it a more comfortable watch for everyday use. It also maintained the red-and-black ‘Coke’ bezel – an eye-catching feature that we haven’t seen implemented in a modern Rolex GMT.

Rolex 'Coke' GMT-Master II 16710 on Everest Curved End Rubber. Image Sources: @radcliffeestatewatches AND @watchenthusiastlondon on IG

Around that $10,000 mark, the 'Coke' 16710 is a solid choice in the preowned Rolex market, combining those older Rolex design cues – slimmer lugs, aluminum bezel – with modern reliability. With a long production run until 2007, there are plenty of options available for collectors and newcomers alike. If you prefer the thicker 16760, expect to pay a bit of a premium, of course depending on condition. Whichever reference you go for, the ‘Coke’ GMT is a classic piece of Rolex history that offers great value compared to the newer ceramic models (keeping availability in mind).

Final Thoughts

As I mentioned at the top, these are just three references that stick out to me as representing particularly good value. Naturally, they’re a reflection of my taste. Luckily, there are thousands of Rolex references out there and, on average, their prices are normalizing following the greatest watch market bull run of all time. This is the time for you and I – people who actually love watches – to get in on the action and find some good value. What models do you have your eyes on? Let us know in the comments below, and if you’re looking to customize your Rolex watch, check out our selection of curved-end (integrated) straps for various models.