The best Rolex watches to buy this year, by Chrono Hunter
By Simon Lazarus, head of PR and content at Chrono Hunter
Whether seasoned enthusiast, ardent collector, or venturing down the rabbit hole for the first time, few names in watchmaking carry the weight of Rolex.
Established in 1905, (in London) Hans Wilsdorf’s vision has shaped more than a watch brand—it has defined an industry. Precision, innovation, and permanence have become synonymous with the crown.
A Rolex is never just a timekeeper.
It’s a cultural signal—instantly recognisable, quietly authoritative, and worn by those who understand its meaning. On the wrists of leaders, A-list celebs, Presidents and high achievers, it represents success earned rather than declared.
To own a Rolex is to be part of a legacy.
Today, Chrono Hunter—one of the leading online platforms to buy and sell a luxury watch—takes a minute to examine the best Rolex watches to buy, continuing to define aspiration in the modern collecting world.
Rolex Daytona
Introduced in 1963, it’s one of the most sought-after watches on the planet. Yet the Rolex Daytona was not always destined for cult status. Introduced as a racing chronograph in the mid-20th century, it was once overlooked by collectors.
That changed decisively when Newman’s Daytona sold at auction for a whopping $17.8 million, elevating the model to grail-watch status. Prized references feature 6262, 6263 and 6265, known as “Big Red”.
Today, the Daytona stands as an enduring symbol of performance, prestige, and modern watchmaking history.
Our Hot Horological Picks
- Rolex Daytona “Le Mans” reference 126529LN
- Reference 116500LN in stainless steel (white, black or panda dial)
- “John Mayer” reference 116508
Rolex Submariner
Setting the timekeeping benchmark for all dive watches to follow, the Submariner has already made a giant splash.
Launched in 1953, it was engineered for the depths but quickly found itself perfectly at home above sea level—paired as easily with wetsuits, as with boardrooms and beach bars.
The first dive timepiece to offer 100 metres of water resistance, the Submariner’s genius lies in its restraint. No chasing trends—just flawless proportions, clean dial, bulletproof functionality, and a design so right it has barely needed changing in seven decades.
Worn by explorers, soldiers, CEOs, and more than a few fictional spies, it quietly emphasises capability without shouting about it. A Submariner doesn’t beg for attention; it assumes it.
It remains one of the most recognisable and desirable watches in Wilsdorf’s stable. Equal parts tool watch and status symbol, the Submariner proves true icons don’t need reinvention—only the utmost respect.
Our Hot Horological Picks
- Rolex Submariner “Hulk” reference 116610LV
- 41mm Rolex Submariner “No Date” reference 124060
- Rolex Submariner “Bluesy” reference 1266113LB (pictured)
Rolex GMT-Master II
Developed in the 1950s for PAN-AM pilots navigating multiple time zones, the Rolex GMT-Master was born out of necessity rather than excess.
Function came first—yet style followed effortlessly. With its distinctive two-tone bezel and fourth hand tracking a second time zone, the watch quickly transcended the cockpit.
The GMT-Master’s appeal lies in its versatility. It speaks equally to globetrotters, collectors, and those who simply appreciate purposeful design. From early Bakelite bezels to today’s ceramic iterations, the model has evolved without ever losing identity.
Few executions manage to feel both utilitarian and aspirational. It’s a tool watch with a passport, a luxury piece with genuine provenance. In an increasingly connected world, its relevance feels more assured than ever.
More than a complication, the GMT-Master is a symbol of movement—across borders, eras, and cultures.
Our Hot Horological Picks
- “Pepsi” reference 126710BLRO (pictured)
- “Root Beer” reference 126711CHNR.
- “Batman” 116710BLNR or “Batgirl” reference 126710BLNR
- “Bruce Wayne” Ref. 126710GRNR
Rolex Day-Date
Unveiled in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date was the first wristwatch to display both the day of the week and the date spelled out in full—an innovation that quickly set it apart.
Crafted exclusively in precious metals and instantly recognisable by its fluted bezel and President bracelet, it became a symbol of authority and achievement.
Often dubbed “the President’s Watch,” the Day-Date has been worn by world leaders, visionaries, and power brokers alike. Not to mention Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood and of course Donald Trump.
But there’s nothing “fake” about its legendary appeal which extends beyond status. Understated yet unmistakable, it represents confidence without excess—proof that true influence rarely needs to announce itself.
Our Hot Horological Picks
- Day-Date 40 reference 228238 or reference 228239
- Reference 18038 – Onyx dial
- Reference 228396TBR – Arabic dial
Rolex Sky-Dweller
Introduced in 2012, the Rolex Sky-Dweller is the brand’s most technically advanced watch, designed with the global traveller firmly in mind.
Combining an annual calendar with a dual time zone display, it balances complexity and dexterity with Rolex’s signature clarity.
Its defining feature, the Ring Command bezel, allows wearers to set multiple functions intuitively—an elegant solution to an otherwise complicated problem.
Despite its sophistication, the Sky-Dweller remains unmistakably Rolex: robust, legible, and refined. Modern, confident, and quietly commanding, the Sky-Dweller is less about heritage and more about technical mastery.
Flexed by many celebs including 8-time Wimbledon champ Roger Federer, the Sky-Dweller is the stuff of legends.
Our Hot Horological Picks
- Reference 336934 – mint green, blue or black dial.
- Reference 326934 – stainless steel, white gold, Jubilee bracelet
- Reference 336935 – blue dial, 18k Everose gold
Rolex Oyster Perpetual
An entry-level piece bar none and symbol of timeless elegance, the Oyster Perpetual has remained on many agendas.
Launched in 1931, it’s the personification of pure, unadorned excellence – a watch stripped to its essentials yet unmistakably iconic.
It pioneered the waterproof Oyster case and self-winding Perpetual movement, setting a standard that endures today. Simplicity is its strength: clean dial, elegant proportions, and no complications to distract from its precision.
The ideal everyday piece, it works as effortlessly on a boardroom wrist as it does on a weekend adventure, proving versatility can be luxurious without needing to shout.
Accessible yet aspirational, the Oyster Perpetual embodies Rolex’s philosophy: timeless design, flawless engineering, and quiet confidence in every tick.
Our Hot Horological Picks
- 36mm reference 126000 blue dial or “Tiffany dial”
- 41mm reference 124300
Last Minute Thoughts
Between the sought after Daytona, sleek Sky-Dweller and classic OP, the coronet has got in on lockdown when it comes to the best Rolex watches.
Pick the right model, and it won’t just keep time—it can keep gaining value. For those who enjoy the finer things, wearing one delivers personal satisfaction, undeniable prestige, and the occasional, well-earned double-take.
Wondering whether it’s the right moment to buy or sell a Rolex? Chrono Hunter makes it effortless. Access multiple offers from our carefully curated network of top-tier retailers and discover the smartest way to trade the world’s most coveted watches.
