Rolex Learning Center
Rolex Watches Nickname and Information Guides
Find Bob Wingate's Rolex Watches Nickname Guide HERE
Find Bob Wingate's Rolex Vintage Watches Nickname Guide HERE
Find Bob Wingate's Rolex Watches Nicknamed for Famous People HERE
Find Bob Wingate's Rolex Watch Sea-Dweller History HERE
Why is Rolex better?
- Rolex is the most recognized maker of luxury watches in the world
- Watches made by Rolex retain their value over time which makes them a great investment due to their resale value
- Rolex has made a lot of patented innovations like the Oysterlock, Oysterflex bracelets, and Parachrom blue hairspring
- Rolex makes a lot of watches that use precious metals/stones (specifically, diamonds)
- Rolex watches roughly range from $4,000 to as high as $18 million
- Rolex mostly makes mechanical watches
Why is Patek Philippe better?
- The different parts of a Patek Philippe watch are made in-house
- Patek Philippe watches can be sold roughly at $5,000 at the least—and can be as much as $24 million
- Patek Philippe watches are scarce. As a result of this, Patek Philippe watches represent exclusivity
- Patek Philippe usually make mechanical watches
- All of the watches made by Patek Philippe are stunning and extremely detailed (handcrafted) in terms of design
- Patek Philippe watches have exceptional resale value regardless if you buy a vintage or modern timepiece, but most owners consider them an heirloom to be passed down from generation to generation.
Are Rolex unisex?
Rolex makes watches that are designed specifically for men or women, but it is not uncommon to see women wearing men’s Rolex models. While not actually labeled unisex, certain models work as unisex. The Rolex Submariner and Day-Date models are particularly popular among female celebrities, despite being designed for male clients.
Are Rolex watches water resistant?
With the exception of the Cellini models, all Rolex models are water resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet). The company also designs watches meant to be used by divers, including the Rolex Submariner watches, which is water resistant for up to 1,000 meters. Rolex debuted the first water resistant wristwatch in 1926, the Oyster, and has had several innovations since then. The Oyster Perpetual models are all outfitted with the Oyster case and tested for water resistance. Watches are placed in water and put under pressure to simulate the exact circumstances they would be under in a diving situation. The watches are then pushed beyond this limit to ensure they can truly withstand being submerged to 100 meters. Every Oyster watch has been proven to withstand the guaranteed water depth, plus 10% for regular watches and 25% increased pressure for diving watches. Beware though, the crown MUST be screwed down securely for the watch to maintain its water resistance.
Are Rolex automatic?
Most modern Rolex watches do not require manual winding, thanks to the elegant design inside. There are three different options for Rolex movements.
Classified as self-winding, the most common type of Rolex is wound by the wearer’s movement. A spring within the watch movement actually uses kinetic energy, such as wrist movements, to keep the watch wound. However, this only works while the watch is being worn and for a short while off the wrist. If your watch is left sitting for several days, it will eventually need manual winding. These kinetic energy watches include Datejust, Day-Day, Yacht-Master, Explorer, and Submariner lines.
There are also classic, hand wound watches available. The Rolex Cellini Collection for Men is the most common line that uses this method. Some vintage Rolexes were also manual winding or self winding.
Quartz movement watches are not as common, but do not require hand winding and are the most precise option. These include the watches in the Cellini Collection for Women.
Are Rolex Swiss made?
Yes, Rolex has four locations within Switzerland, with the world headquarters located in Geneva. The country is known for its fine watch movements, which Rolex takes advantage of to ensure the best quality watches possible. Everything involved in making a Rolex is developed and produced in-house, including the movement assembly and gold alloy casting.
How Rolex watches work
Thanks to the ongoing testing and precision movements, Rolex watches are among the top quality timepieces in the world. The perpetual movement design ensures the watches stay functioning as long as they are worn. An oscillating weight inside the watch rotates as the wearer moves, maintaining the mainspring under tension constantly, maintaining a continuous energy source.
How Rolex makes watches
Every Rolex watch is made up of hundreds of tiny, precise components. Each of these pieces is made in the Rolex production facility, with roughly 2,000 people involved in the process. Each and every watch movement is carefully assembled by hand, then tested to ensure it’s perfect.
The dials and Rolex watch faces are created with both technology and by hand, depending on the design. Gems are set into the faces when needed and the parts are all put together to create a beautiful masterpiece that you can then wear.
Why Rolex watch doesn’t tick
Interestingly, Rolex watches do not make any noise. That’s because the movements are so precisely made that there is little to no friction inside and everything moves very smoothly. You’ll notice that not only is there no sound, but the hands sweep around the face without stopping. Everything is smooth and perfect on a Rolex, including the movements.
How to check my Rolex watch is original?
There are a number of non-authentic watches on the market, so it is important to ensure that your Rolex is original before you purchase it. The simplest way to do this is to buy from a reputable source, like Wingate’s Quality Watches, selling fine timepieces since 1976. However, you can also check your serial number with the company. There are also a few tell-tale signs that a watch is not an original Rolex. Signs of an authentic Rolex:
- It doesn’t tick. Real Rolex watches do not make any noise.
- The hands move smoothly. An original Rolex has smooth, sweeping hand movements, thanks to the fine, Swiss-made movements.
- The watch has weight. An original will be weighty in your hand, due to the quality materials used, such as machined stainless steel, gold, or platinum. Non-authentic watches tend to be made of cheap materials that are much lighter.
- The date is magnified. On Oyster Perpetual models with dates, there should be a magnifying bubble on the crystal, with the exception of the Seadweller.
- The movements are precise. A reputable watch maker will be able to identify an authentic Rolex by peeking inside at the movement.
How to set the time on my Rolex?
Setting the time on a Rolex will depend on the model you have. Rolex offers Quickset watches now, but if you have an older model, you may need to set the watch differently. When purchasing your Rolex, ask which model it is, or check with your serial number. Setting Time on a No-Date Rolex If your watch has no date included, setting the time is very simple.
Step 1: Pull the crown until it is on the last notch.
Step 2: Turn the crown to set the placement of the hands. It may be turned clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Push the crown back in completely.
Setting the Time on a Non-Quickset Rolex
If you are using a watch that has a date on it, but does not use Quickset, you will need to do the following to set the time:
Step 1: Pull the crown until it is on the last notch.
Step 2: Twist the crown in a counter-clockwise direction to reach the proper date.
Step 3: Turn the crown until the hands are in the correct position.
Step 4: Push the crown back in completely.
Setting the Time on a Quickset Rolex
If you are using a watch that has a date on it and uses Quickset, you will need to do the following to set the time:
Step 1: Pull the crown until it is on the first notch. Be careful that you’re setting the watch to AM or PM. As the hour hand moves to 12:00, the date will begin to move. It will then be in PM before 12 and AM after 12.
Step 2: Turn the crown counter-clockwise if you have a men’s watch, clockwise if you have a woman’s watch, to set the date.
Step 3: Pull the crown until it is on the last notch.
Step 4: Turn the crown in either direction until the hands are in the correct positions.
Step 5: Push the crown back in completely.
Setting the Time on a Double Quickset Rolex (Day-Date)
A Rolex Day-Date has its own method of setting the time and date.
Step 1: Pull the crown until it is on the first notch.
Step 2: Turn the crown clockwise until the date is correct.
Step 3: Turn the crown counter-clockwise until the weekday is correct.
Step 4: Pull the crown until it is on the last notch.
Step 5: Turn the crown in either direction until the hands are in the correct positions.
Step 6: Push the crown back in completely.
How to wind a Rolex watch?
Consider using a watch winder if you take your Rolex off and leave it motionless overnight. The winder will maintain the gears in motion, which keeps oils in the movement coating the gears. Perpetual watches do not require winding. Simply move them in your hand if the watch has stopped working. You should feel the weights moving back and forth to set it working again.
If your Rolex is a vintage model or one that requires manual winding, you will find it easiest to follow the steps below to wind your watch.
Step 1: Turn the crown counter-clockwise until it releases. You should notice that it pops out a little.
Step 2: Turn the crown clockwise. It will need 30-40 complete rotations in order to fully wind the watch. Be sure to completely wind it or the Rolex will not work for long. Don’t worry, you can’t overwind a Rolex.
Step 3: Carefully push the crown into the watch while turning clockwise until it is flush with the watch again.
Note: Perpetual motion watches may also need to be moved around a little before they will begin to work again after a period of disuse. Make a small circle with your hand when holding the watch in your hand or wearing it on your wrist to get it going again.
When Rolex started
Rolex SA was started in 1905, in London, UK. Today, it has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, where the finest watch movements are made.
Why Rolex stops running?
Rolex watches don’t tick, thanks to the extremely precise movements. However, it is possible that your Rolex may stop running after a period of being motionless. If you have a perpetual movement watch, like the Oyster, it can stop ticking after being left on a table or otherwise without movement. You can start it up again by moving the watch from side to side. Otherwise, try winding the watch to get it going again. You will need to reset the date and time if this happens.
Why Rolex DateJust?
The Rolex DateJust is one of the most popular options when it comes to luxury watches. There is a women’s line, as well as a men’s, although many women are opting for larger mens watches. The design has been perfected over the years, but is still very similar to the original watch, which was also the first waterproof wristwatch in existence with a self-winding feature. It was also the first to enjoy the date bubble Cyclops lens. Overall, this particular watch is one of the most popular options you’ll find on the market today.
Why Rolex is the best?
Many watch collectors consider Rolex to be the best watch on the market, thanks to the following factors.
- Uses the finest quality materials
- Uses Swiss movements that are so precise the hands sweep
- It’s silent
- It has a pristine reputation
- Rolex is a symbol of success
In the world of fine watchmaking, Rolex is regarded as one of the top quality luxury timepieces.
How to adjust a Rolex bracelet
An older Rolex will require help from a professional to remove links and adjust the bracelet. However, with the newer versions, there are three settings within the clasp. Use a springbar tool to release the springbar on both sides and slide it into the appropriate slot. Set it again and you can wear the adjusted bracelet.
How Rolex GMT works
The Rolex GMT Master was created in 1955, with the Rolex GMT Master II watch introduced in 2005. The watch was designed specifically for pilots who travel internationally. It can show three time zones, which makes it ideal for anyone traveling outside their usual time zone. The watch contains four hands and a rotating bezel dial with a 25 hour scale that covers a third time zone.
How much does a Rolex watch cost?
Rolex watches have a wide price range. You can expect to pay anywhere from $7,000 to $10,000 for a new watch, and even more if the watch is one studded with diamonds. However, previously owned Rolex watches are considerably less and may be a more affordable option if you’re looking for something on a budget, with luxury features.
Are Rolex watches expensive?
That depends on your perspective. Most Rolex watches fall in the $3,000-$20,000 range, but there are higher end Rolex watches that cost much more than that. But Rolex watches are built to last generations. A Rolex watch is no ordinary watch. It contains precise movements that you cannot find in most other watches.
Are Rolex watches battery operated?
Most Rolex watches are made with automatic movements, run by the kinetics of your body. But some Rolex watches are battery powered, including the OysterQuartz. If you do choose a battery powered watch from Rolex, the battery should be replaced approximately every three years.
Are Rolex prices negotiable?
This depends on where you are purchasing from and whether or not the Rolex is new or not. If it has been previously owned, the Rolex price may be negotiable. Most reputable dealers set their prices at very fair and competitive rates.
Can a Rolex stop working?
Rolex watches are designed to last for generations. However, it is possible that your Rolex will stop running temporarily if it is an automatic movement that has not been wound or moved. If this is the case, simply wind the watch if it needs it. Perpetual motion watches (most Rolexes) can be wound or moved back and forth until they resume.
Can Rolex watches rust?
Rolex watches are made of materials that do not rust. Stainless steel, gold, silver and the other high quality materials in a Rolex are meant to last a lifetime, and then some.
Can Rolex glass scratch?
Before 1970, Rolex watches were made with acrylic crystals. The Rolex sapphire crystal appeared first in 1970 on the Oyster Quartz model. Acrylic crystals are much easier to scratch, but can also be buffed clear and are fairly inexpensive to replace. The sapphire crystal is very durable, almost completely scratchproof, and nearly as hard as diamond. It is nearly impossible to scratch. However, a scratch in a sapphire crystal cannot be buffed clear.
What Rolex is a good investment?
While all Rolex watches are a great investment, the Rolex Submariner line tends to hold its value best out of all the watches. You simply cannot go wrong with a luxury time piece like a Rolex.
What Rolex do I have?
To determine which Rolex you have, you can either take it to a retailer to evaluate, or check it against the Rolex website catalog. Be sure to note any specialty features, such as crystals or gems and materials used. You can also give us a call at (800) 842-8625 or email photos to purchasing@tic-tock.com, and we can help you determine what model you own.
What Rolex to buy? What Rolex is right for me?
Only you can decide which Rolex watch is right for you. However, there are a few things to consider when making your selection. Do you prefer:
- Delicate or more rugged designs?
- Simple or complicated faces?
- Date and time or multiple time zones?
- Perpetual motion or battery operated?
- Aviation, regular, or diving design?
- Gold, platinum, or stainless steel?
Among the most popular options are:
- Submariner
- Datejust and Date
- Explorer and Explorer II
- GMT Master
- Daytona
- Yacht Master
- President
When do Rolex prices increase?
Rolex prices generally increase every year, though there is no set date for the increase. Price increases are usually fairly modest, unless Rolex is drastically changing a model design. Buying any luxury watch is better done sooner than later, but you want to make sure you’re getting the watch you really want from a reputable dealer. Don’t settle, just for the sake of saving a few bucks.
When did Rolex introduce Quickset?
The Quickset function was introduced in 1978. This feature allows you to change the time independently of the date and vice versa, making it much faster to set the watch to the correct date. Rolex DateJust, President and Day-Date watch lines are just a few that have the Quickset option.
Are Rolex watches good investments?
You can’t go wrong with purchasing a genuine Rolex. The precision of the movements means with proper maintenance, your watch will last long enough to passed on as an heirloom. Aside from emotional value, these watches are a good investment thanks to:
- Valuable materials
- Long lasting movements
- Timeless looks, rather than trendy
- Lack of technology to go out of date
- High market value, even when used
- Prestigious brand that is known around the world
Are Rolex watches solid gold?
A genuine gold Rolex watch uses solid gold for most of its parts, including the bezel and the bracelet. Since the company does not use gold plating in any way, any part that looks gold is usually 14 or 18 carat gold. Note that even the tiny screws used to hold these watches together are made of gold. However, some Rolex watches, such as the Rolex Yacht-Master II, are made of stainless steel, while others, like the Lady-Datejust 28, are made with platinum. No matter which finish is chosen, the end result is perfection.
Are Rolex watches supposed to tick?
When you pick up a Rolex watch, the first thing you will notice is the absence of that familiar ticking noise. That’s due to the extremely detailed movements inside the mechanical movement. The pieces are so precisely fitted that there is no noise when they move. A true Rolex will never tick.
Are Rolex watches worth the money?
In short, yes. While might be pricey, the watches are also of the highest quality. Made of gold, the finest steel, and carefully designed to work perfectly, a Rolex is more a work of art than a mere watch. It’s resistant to damage and can handle being underwater, as well. When you purchase a Rolex, you can rest assured that you have the best money can buy, which is why these watches are also a sign of prestige.
Can stolen Rolex watches be traced?
When a Rolex is stolen, its serial number can be recorded and while it is not actually traced, it will be available for anyone to check if they are buying a Rolex. For example, if a buyer is looking at purchasing a used Rolex watch, they may check the serial number to be sure that the item is not stolen. If the watch has been reported lost or stolen, it will show up in the search and can be returned to its rightful owner.
Can a stretched Rolex bracelet be fixed?
Over time, the band on your Rolex watch may start fitting more loosely. This is caused by worn center pin links that cause loosening or stretching of the bracelet. Fortunately, it is possible to remedy this situation by replacing or strengthening the worn down pins. Clasps may also “stretch” and can be replaced to give your watch band a more comfortable fit.
Where is Rolex serial number located?
ItIt’s simple to find the serial number for a Rolex watch. It is engraved onto the the case at the 6 o’clock position, tucked between the two lugs (you have to take the strap or bracelet off to see it). The number will be between 4 and 8 digits long and can be checked with the company to ensure it is genuine. In 2005, Rolex started engraving the serial number on the inner rim of the dial, under the crystal.
What Rolex watches are water resistant?
Rolex watches are water resistant, meaning the rating that certifies how deep a Rolex will maintain its water resistance. Those who wish to use their Rolex while diving or performing other activities below 100 meters of water will want to look at the sports watches meant for divers. The Rolex Submariner line is good for diving and is waterproof for up to 300 meters. All Rolexes have gaskets and seals that maintain that water resistance rating. These components can degrade over time. It is a good idea to have your Rolex’s water resistance rating checked over time, especially if you are a SCUBA diver. Also, to wind a Rolex, you must unscrew the crown. If you forget to screw the crown back down, water can seep into the movement. Always remember to screw the crown back down.
Who sells Rolex watches?
You can find Rolex watches for sale in quality retail stores and online sites from leading independent dealer of fine luxury timepieces. To avoid getting fake Rolex watches, look for a company that has a proven record as a dealer of luxury timepieces. Ideally, the company should have a history of selling watches and will offer guarantee of authenticity.
Where does Rolex come from?
Rolex watches were created by Hans Wilsdorf in Germany, back in 1908. Partnering with Aegler, Rolex took fine watchmaking to another level with movements that fit inside a wristwatch. The combination of German usefulness and style, combined with Swiss precision, makes for the perfect timepiece.
Which is better, Breitling or Rolex?
A list of pros for each brand would do well to treat this particular question. In the case of Breitling timepieces:
Pros of the Breitling brand:
- Most Breitlings are more affordable than Rolex watches'
- Breitling timepieces are made for professionals such as pilots, astronauts, search and rescue personnel
- Breitling watches come with a wide variety of straps and metal braceles.
- Breitling feature more quartz models that require less maintenance and more precision than mechanical watches
- Compared to Breitling, Rolex do not have a lot of limited/special edition watches which affects sense of variety
Pros of the Rolex Brand:
- The resale value of Rolex timepieces is more consistent and better than most other luxury watches brand
- Their collection is filled with timepieces that possess a lot of diamonds
- Rolex is the number one (arguably or otherwise) recognized brand of luxury watches world-wide (partly due to iconic timepieces)
- They have numerous patented innovations such as Osterflex bracelets, Triplock locking crown, and Oysterlock
As with topics such as this, there's simply no personal best to be had. It all falls on user preference at the end of it all. A wearer might like the diamond bezels that are featured by Rolex and will most likely consider it better than a Breitling watch due to that very reason. Alternatively, affordability is a powerful incentive that can convince wearers to prefer Breitling timepieces over Rolex made ones.
Which is better, Cartier or Rolex?
Picking the best between a Cartier and a Rolex depends on your personal preference. So, we've compiled the information below for you to go through.
Cartier Watches
- Cartier timepieces are cheaper overall than Rolex watches
- Cartier watches are generally more dressy and they come in various case sizes
- Cartier produces a lot of quartz watches (better accuracy than mechanical watches) as opposed to Rolex
Rolex Watches
- Rolex has excellent resale value when compared to Cartier watches
- Rolex has a large selection of timepieces for you to pick from
- Rolex is acknowledged as the most popular luxury watch brand in the world
- Rolex has a focus on using diamonds in many of their watches