Rolex Watches Under $20,000: Your Complete Guide
Rolex increased its prices again at the beginning of this year, which has become an annual expectation. For most customers working with a specific budget, this means fewer options each year. That's why we've put together this guide to Rolex watches that fall under $20,000. The good news is that there are still some solid timepieces available in this price range.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual
The Oyster Perpetual collection stands out primarily for its dial color options. The collection offers a complete size range, with models available for both women and men. The watch uses stainless steel with an Oyster bracelet, which makes it versatile enough to wear with anything.
What You Can Buy in This Price Range
With a budget under $20,000, you can get most models in the OP collection. The exceptions are a few specific variants like the celebration dial in 41mm size.
Value and Performance
Certain dials are worth buying if you're thinking about value retention. The Tiffany blue and celebration dials in particular will retain value and likely increase over time. The minimal design of this collection works with any outfit, which adds to its practicality.
Rolex Datejust
The Datejust is another popular collection in the Rolex lineup. This collection is known for having numerous watch combinations, which gives you more choices under the $20,000 budget.
What Affects the Price
With countless Datejust variations available, it's impossible to cover them all. The key factors affecting price are: case size (smaller is cheaper), dial color, bezel type (diamond bezels cost more), and material (stainless steel is most affordable, while gold and two-tone increase the price). Understanding these elements helps you find a Datejust within your $20,000 budget.
Recommended Models
There are specific models worth buying under this budget. For women, you'll have more choices if your wrist size is under 41mm. The Rolex Datejust 31 pink Roman Oyster 278240 runs around $11,000. If you have closer to $18,000 to spend, the Rolex Datejust 36 MOP Jubilee 126234 is a strong choice.
For men, the selection is more limited, but there are still pieces with good configurations that hold value. The Rolex Datejust 41 blue Roman Jubilee 126334 costs around $17,000. Other models like the Datejust 41 with black, mint green, blue index, or Wimbledon dial with Jubilee bracelet in white gold and Oystersteel 126334 also run around $17,000.
Rolex GMT-Master II
The GMT-Master II is recognized for its distinctive bezel color combinations and dual time zone functionality. A few popular models cost under $20,000: the "Batman" Oyster Bracelet 126710BLNR at $20,000, and the "Sprite" with Jubilee or Oyster bracelet at around $18,500. These models are in high demand and retain value well.
Rolex Submariner
In the Rolex sports watch category, the Submariner is the first choice for most first-time watch buyers. This collection consistently holds its value due to its ongoing popularity.
There are two main variants: the no-date version (Rolex Submariner No Date Black Dial 124060 at $14,750) and the date models, which include the black Sub Date 126610LN and the "Starbucks" 126610LV. Between these options, the 126610LN or 126610LV is the stronger pick.
Other Sport Watch Options
Several other Rolex sports watches fall under the $20,000 mark:
-
Rolex Yacht-Master models with slate dial and blue dial in different sizes (37mm, 40mm)
These Rolex watches look good, but they're not as in-demand as the models listed above. This means they may not hold value as well. However, if you're buying based on personal preference rather than investment potential, these are worth considering.
Final Thoughts
The positive takeaway is that there are still timepieces worth collecting under $20,000. However, compared to last year, the selection has narrowed due to annual price increases.
Buying a high-end watch requires significant money, so it's understandable if you need time to think it through. We're here to guide you through the process and clarify your options. If you're looking for Rolex models that keep their value, focus on the Datejust, Submariner, and GMT-Master II. Looking at how prices have changed over recent years, buying earlier rather than later will save you money.
The models covered in this guide are our top recommendations based on popularity and demand. To shop all watches under the $20,000 budget, visit our collection link.
