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Rolex vs. Breitling Watches (EVERYTHING You Should Know)

Posted on August 29, 2022August 24, 2023 by William Boyd

Which one is a superior brand? Breitling or Rolex? This is a question that has probably been arugued for generations and will more than likely never end. You must have asked this question to yourself and friends a multitude of times. There probably has yet to be a definitive answer and there may never be.

These two luxury watch brands often confuse the buyers, offering so many bells and whistles to their watches that even the most enthusiastic of fans may end up scratching their heads. Since both are classified as top-tier and high-class luxury, it is hard to decide which one is better.

However, let’s discuss it from a different angle of what if Breitling is an improved Rolex? When looking for a luxury watch from a reputable Swiss watchmaker (like IWC and JLC), these two high-end brands are always on top of the list. This is one fact that cannot be disputed, no matter where you fall on the spectrum of which watch brands are the best.

You can debate between two watches and want to know which is superior, Breitling or Rolex. Both companies make some excellent timepieces. Having stated that, let’s determine which watch brand should be your next buy:

History

Rolex

Hans Wilsdorf, a German-born watchmaker, and his brother-in-law Alfred Davis founded their firm in 1905 in London. They bought Swiss movements, placed them in British cases, and marketed them to jewelers so they could brand the dials with their names. Wilsdorf created and acquired the Rolex brand in 1908 after recognizing the potential for its brand to flourish in the expanding wristwatch industry.

Wilsdorf was always aware of the attractiveness of accurate timekeeping. This awareness has paid off over the years and there are many consumers that flock to Rolex because it is known for its attention to detail, precision, and mission to always stay one step ahead of the competition across the board.

The National Clock Grading Institute in Bienne, Switzerland, awarded the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision to the first timepiece, a Rolex, in 1910. Wilsdorf obtained a “Class A” Precision Certificate from the Kew Observatory in 1914 after realizing the beneficial effect this certification had on sales. These certifications are what many watch enthusiasts point to as proof that Rolex is one of the few brands that places a high premium on the technical as well as aesthetic aspects of its watches.

Since then, Rolex has provided cutting-edge accuracy that is arguably the best in the industry and what other top brands seek to emulate. As the market for Rolex watches increased quickly, Wilsdorf decided to move the company to Geneva, Switzerland, in 1919 due to British taxation on the Swiss movements Rolex utilized.

After that, the Rolex team developed a completely sealed watch casing, which Wilsdorf named the Oyster, and made it widely available. Fast forward to 2010, Rolex became one of the most sought Swiss watch brands.

Breitling

Léon Breitling established Breitling in 1884 in St. Imier, Switzerland. All the Breiling watches have a long history of usage in science, sports, and business. The company relocated to bigger quarters at La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1892. Breitling introduced a timepiece with a chronograph function in 1915.

The brilliant idea to include a push-piece at 2 o’clock to start, stop, and reset the chronograph operations came from Léon Breitling’s son, Gaston. By continually pushing the start/stop button while wearing the crown, the wearer may clock subsequent occurrences without needing to recalibrate.

The wristwatch kept moving forward in terms of advancements. Léon Breitling’s grandson Willy came up with the idea to include a second push-piece at 4 o’clock for stopping the stopwatch. To split the costs of creating a new self-winding chronograph, Jack Heuer approached Breitling in 1967.

However, some watchmakers may dispute this. The storied Heuer Monaco and Breitling Chrono-Matic lines held the Calibre 11 watches. It’s interesting to note that all current Breitling models, both conventional and quartz, have passed the COSC’s independent chronometer testing.

Design Consistency

Rolex

Regarding their watch styles, Rolex is famous for making only small, conservative alterations. Furthermore, the design language of Rolex hasn’t changed much since ages. These intricate, yet decisive adjustments may not be for everyone, but they have been an undeniable hit with ardent followers and enthusiasts, who herald the brand as a game-changer in the industry. In short, you can say that Rolex rarely had to innovate since its 20th-century designs established such a timeless aesthetic standard.

The unchanging appearance of Rolex watches has undoubtedly contributed to the growing desire for retro-styled timepieces, as mechanical wristwatches have been unequivocally out of date for roughly fifty years. However, a glance at any other watch company reveals that Rolex stands apart among large-scale watch manufacturers for its tight devotion to its design tradition.

The Rolex catalog’s Cellini line continues to be an outlier, with many avant-garde designs coming and going throughout the years, particularly for models for ladies. However, the Cellini series remains the least popular, identifiable, and collectible Rolex model. Despite this fact, it is still considered a premium model and heads and shoulders above the offerings of other brands in the same class.

Breitling

Regarding design consistency, Breitling has also given tough competition to its rivals., who often have to go back to the drawing board in order to offer proper alternatives to their versions. Although we have seen some major design upgrades from Breitling over the decades, some main design languages are kept intact. For instance, the triangle on the edges of minute and second hands has been the same for a long time. Moreover, Breitling has kept their watches in elegant design over time.

While most watchmakers were going with elegant design upgrades, Breitling decided to keep up with their signature designs. The brains behind Breitling wanted to make their design consistent on top of everyone. This philosophy has made the brand easy to identify and is one of the qualities that fans find endearing and specific to the brand.

Rolex vs. Breitling- Who Holds Value Best?

Believe it or not, there is a clear link between a brand’s worth, popularity, and resale value. On average, the stronger the brand, the more money you’ll receive back when trying to sell it. However, certain timepieces have a better resale value for other factors, such as their rarity or iconic significance.

Nevertheless, you will often receive more money when selling your Rolex watches relative to your Breitling watches when comparing the proportion of what you initially spent for a Rolex or Breitling with what you may sell it for. But, it depends on the price at which you may acquire the timepiece, its state, and if you still have the paperwork and other accessories that came with the initial purchase.

If you overspend on a Rolex timepiece, you will probably not make back your money if you subsequently sell it. Additionally, certain Rolex models are less well-known than others. Think about a Daytona, Submariner, or GMT-Master if you want a Rolex that will keep its worth over time.

Breitling watches often keep their worth over time but depreciate over time. This is a fact that is associated with all models of watches, no matter the brand. A Breitling does, however, take some time to depreciate, and it is conceivable for a very new Breitling to be valued greater than the amount paid for it. This is a serious consideration that collectors take into account before making an investment.

The benefit of buying a Breitling watch is that they are known for being extremely professional timepieces. An example is the Breitling Navitimer 01, which is made for aeronauts like flyers, scientists, military professionals, search and rescue teams, and more. If an incident arises, Breitling’s Breitling Emergency watch, which features a finder and a rescue signal, is fantastic. The Exospace B55 watches, for example, are smartwatches created with unique smart capabilities for pilots and aerospace professionals.

Breitling also sells a few more smartwatches. Additionally, Breitling offers a variety of rubber strap alternatives that are suitable for any of their watches. Having so many options on the table is another selling point for many watch enthusiasts, who may be searching for a different type of watch than what they normally may purchase.

Rolex now only offers a small number of rubber strap alternatives in its Yachtmaster line and a small number of Rolex Daytonas. Breitling is the brand to choose if you want a high-quality timepiece that is affordable and won’t depreciate quickly.

But Rolex is the route if you want to get into the most competitive marketplace on the planet and invest in a watch that will probably increase in value with time. However, be careful not to overspend for your Rolex, and retain your receipts.

Rolex vs. Breitling – Brand Reputation And Prestige

In news that is probably not news to anyone, Rolex truly kills the competition when it relates to brand recognition, and it has done so across several generations. Even people that are not interested in watches know that a Rolex watch is a luxury item and an instant indicator of class and distinction.

Breitling is a well-known brand, although not quite as well known as Rolex. When someone mentions luxury watch, most people immediately think of Rolex. This is due in part to their immaculate marketing and product placement over the years tht has reached people across all economic levels.

Again, this does not suggest that Breitling is not a significant player; they are. You may find Breitling in the search results by performing a straightforward Google search for ‘top luxury watch brands’. Few other manufacturers have the same level of respect as Rolex. You will receive positive comments when wearing a Rolex as they are impossible to ignore. Moreover, if you wear a Breitling, you won’t receive nearly as much praise as if you wore a Rolex.

Breitling is a fantastic watch brand; anyone who knows watches would agree with this. Still, unfortunately, this goes to demonstrate the ignorance the common consumer has about luxury watches. Therefore, if you receive a compliment while wearing a Breitling, you can be certain that the individual knows watches.

Rolex vs. Breitling – Price And Movement

The least expensive Rolex costs about twice as much as the least expensive Breitling. It will cost you $6,100 to enter the Rolex world – a steep price to pay to be associated with a premium product. This is the cost of their brand-new men’s 39mm Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch.

You will pay nearly half as much as an entry-level Rolex to join the Breitling club. This will buy you the entry-level Breitling watch, which is still as cool as some of the premium ones. The best part about Breitling is that they value their female customers. Breilting has dedicated the Colt Lady lineup to their female watch enthusiasts.

This is a feature that is not lost on consumers and a rare example of a brand that understands the desires of women and premium watches as well. Even though all Rolex timepieces are equal in terms of movement, they all have mechanical movements that the company itself makes in-house. Collectors of watches view mechanical watches as having the most renowned sorts of movements. This is an activity that Rolex takes great pleasure in.

The entry-level Breitling watches feature battery-operated, cost-effective quartz movements. Therefore, this is a major reason Rolex is more costly than Breitling when comparing prices. They exclusively employ premium, very accurate mechanical calibers.

You consequently get what you pay for. In earlier days, Rolex employed quartz movements. The Rolex flagship watch oyster was last mentioned in a 2001 inventory. However, it has since been eliminated since Rolex wishes only to highlight the greatest movements, among all other aspects of watches.

Breitling also develops their internal movements. Moreover, this luxury watch brand also takes great pleasure in horology. Breitling manufactures all of its timepieces, some of which are among the best in the world.

Best Rolex Watches

Rolex Submariner

The Sub didn’t truly become trendy until the 1980s, primarily because preppy people wore them as a statement of an active lifestyle that, most likely, centered around drinks at the yacht club. Unfortunately, tool watches became fashionable during this decade, and the rest is timepieces history.

Rolex recognized that the Submariner had evolved from a tool to a jewel, and during the decade of materialism, gold, two-tone, and even diamond-encrusted variants appeared. Gold variants are significantly less sought-after than plain steel ones, which are difficult to find at retail and may sell for up to 25% more than retail among fans.

Rolex GMT Master II

The GMT Master II, an improvement to the crown in 1982, featured a new movement and an individually changeable local hour hand that proved to be huge successes as steel and gold editions exuded a flawless jet-set attitude.

Many people knew how to wear a Rolex Submariner with maximum flair, but wearing a GMT Master II was a subtly fashionable gesture highlighting the owner’s individuality. The GMT Master II still exudes a subdued quirkiness.A revamped GMT Master II with a ceramic bezel and a new movement that featured several contemporary modifications was released by Rolex in 2007.

Rolex Milgauss

When the Milgauss was released in 1956, nuclear research was a hot topic, especially in locations like CERN, which is today home to the world’s most sophisticated particle accelerator.

Electrical engineers were among the most significant professions in the world at the time as all the amazing technology created during World War II was being translated to commercial applications.

Unfortunately, engineers and scientists don’t get the fame they deserve, and the Milgauss is the only Rolex model that was discontinued from 1988 to 2007. For Rolex lovers, the watch’s reintroduction in 2007 was a very pleasant surprise, and the lightning-bolt second’s hand continues to be its most amusing design element.

Unlike and more than any other Rolex watch, the Milgauss will probably make you distinguish yourself from the crowd. The current version isn’t absolutely hard to get on sale. It is undoubtedly a watch for savvy individuals.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

Before the 1960s, Rolex employed Oyster casings to contain external chronograph movements. Then the manufacturer produced the futuristic-sounding ‘Cosmograph’ while increasing the case size and redesigning the dial.

Soon after, the Rolex Daytona legend began to take shape when the crown began sponsoring races at Florida’s renowned beachside track and adding its initials to the dial. While there wasn’t much uproar at the time—that would come later. A striking outcome for a watch that was initially unimpressive is that the Daytona continues to be in demand and sells over retail on the used market, like many titanium Expert variants.

Best Breitling Watches

Breitling Cockpit Chrono

The Breitling Cockpit Chrono model has ruled the market since the early 2000s, and shows no signs of slowing down This watch fills the void between a scientific chronograph watch and a beautiful regular sports watch. The 39mm stainless steel case and a beautiful brown leather band give this watch a distinct profile.

This makes it easy to go from casual business wear to an active weekend outfit. The Breitling Caliber 13 automated movement with a 42-hour power reserve is the heart of the Cockpit Chrono ref. A13358. The clock, date, and chronograph functions of the watch are provided by this mechanism, which is all nicely displayed on the dial’s balanced layout.

Breitling Chronomat

The Chronomat, Breitling’s flagship model, is one of the company’s most popular and enduring lines. The Breitling Chronomat, a special model from the late 1990s, has all the characteristics you might expect from a premium timepiece.

The metal bidirectional spinning bezel is mounted on top of the 40mm stainless steel case and is marked to 60 units. The difference between this Chronomat and other models is that it has a matte texture steel finish as opposed to the more typical polished steel appearance. This style is known as ‘stealth mode’ by Breitling.

Breitling Chrono Avenger

The Breitling Chrono Avenger is a tough timepiece designed to survive harsh conditions and heavy use, ideal for those that lead active lifestyles. Despite having a big 44mm size, the Chrono Avenger is nonetheless very light owing to the utilization of titanium.

The chronograph configuration with the three registers at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock is on the black dial. Additionally, the dial has a lot of illumination to provide the best visibility in dim light. The trustworthy Caliber 13 automatic movement powers this robust Breitling chronograph. The Breitling Chrono Avenger is the ideal choice if you want a gorgeous timepiece that is also robust.

Breitling Super Ocean Heritage

Breitling produces excellent diving watches in addition to pilot watches. The Breitling Superocean heritage comes in stainless steel and has a large 46mm case with a blue bidirectional diver’s dial. The SuperOcean Heritage II pays a modest homage to legendary Breitling diving watches from the late 1950s, as suggested by its name.

The wristwatch carries some design cues from Breitling timepieces of the past. One such example is the vintage steel mesh band that resembles the original model. Breitling has put in great thoughts to make a time piece of this level. Furthermore, the overall aesthetics of this watch are gorgeous for people with different tastes.

Conclusion

When purchasing a watch, you must be aware of your objectives in addition to the amount of money you are looking to invest. If you have the cash and are a trader, Rolex is currently experiencing a market bull run. A Rolex in your possession may be valued more than you bought it for.

Purchasing a prized Rolex is a daunting task and not one to be taken lightly. Even though there will always be more interest than supply, there is a fair probability that there will eventually be a downturn and a purchasing opportunity. If you don’t have $30,000 to spare and are willing to risk losing it, a Rolex watch is not for you.

Breguet vs. Rolex Watches (EVERYTHING You Should Know)

Posted on August 28, 2022November 6, 2024 by William Boyd

When you want to collect a luxury watch, you have come to a firm decision – you are on your way to a high-profile personality. Of course, easier said than done as there are many avenues and approaches to reaching luxury. A watch is a symbol of dignity and discipline, uplifting the appearance of the person. However, it is not as easy to collect a luxury watch for everyone.

With so many brands available on the market today, narrowing down the contenders take a more streamlined approach than ever before. Purchasing a luxury watch might be intimidating in part because of the variety of options and the extremely high pricing of some models. For example, it may be difficult to pick between Brequet vs. Rolex watches or other luxury brands.

Depending on your personal sense of style and the value placed on certain brands, the process can be even more daunting. In this review, we will analyze the Brequet and Rolex brands, presenting an in-depth analysis of what distinguishes them from one another. Afterwards, you should have more confidence in making a decision that agrees with your price range and lifestyle.

Breguet Watches Overview

Breguet is honored to be the inventor of innovative production processes and technology. In 1801, Breguet invented the “Tourbillon” regulator. The Tourbillon mechanism was invented by the company’s founder Abraham-Louis Breguet, initiating a legacy that continues to this day. The Tourbillon adjusts for changes in rate resulting from a watch’s various positions.

Mounting the balance and escapement in a revolving cage is the guiding concept. It has the balance and escapement spin around its shared axis to cover all positions in order to average out any faults. Breguet Watch Company produced the final modifications to the marine chronometer in 1815, setting the way for creating the Marine Chronograph and Breguet Marine Chronograph for women’s watch lines.

Each Breguet watch has a “guilloche” face with hollow eccentric moon hands and unusual numerals, combining utility and elegance and boasting a hidden Breguet signature. Each Breguet watch has a further distinguishing characteristic as the coined edges on the case edge, often known as “case-band fluting”.

Rolex Watches Overview

Hans Wilsdorf and his relative Alfred Davis co-founded the renowned watch company in 1902. He started the watchmaking business there in London, selling timepieces with precision movements from Hermann Aegler and casings from reputable manufacturers like Dennison. The pair then gave the watches to jewelers so the shops could stamp their logos into the cases.

The initials “W&D” were frequently stamped on the inside surface of the case back of many of the early timepieces. Rolex has maintained its position at the top of the watch industry for decades thanks to the same kind of widespread, universal goodwill that often only goes to Patagonia fleeces and A-list actors in movies. Of course, its motions and finishes are top-notch, but like Elizabeth Taylor they hardly need an introduction at this time.

Brequet Vs. Rolex – Brands Comparison

While we compare the two watch brands, Brequet vs. Rolex, certain elements need special consideration.

Accuracy

Watch devotees may talk about this topic at length because of its relevance to their hobby: the pursuit of perfect chronometric precision. Outside of a case, COSC certifies Rolex movements. Once the watch’s movements pass the COSC standards test, it returns to the manufacturer. They are fitted into a cover and subjected to additional testing until they achieve an accuracy of -2/+2 seconds.

Rolex’s internal designation of “Superlative Chronometer” on the dial is now the de facto norm for all new timepieces bearing the brand. Although Breguet does not routinely get its watches certified by the COSC, they have shown that they can produce more accurate timepieces than the COSC requires. Therefore, Breguet doesn’t represent its product as the most reliable. They aren’t quite as precise as Rolex but revered for their historical place.

Brand Popularity

A recent survey by a brand value firm found that Rolex is the most well-known Swiss watch brand, outperforming Breguet and all other Swiss watchmakers in terms of consumer demand. They have become the most famous luxury watchmaker in the world, with approximately one hundred percent brand recognition in every country.

Maybe that’s why their logo includes a crown. This type of brand identification is what most brands work diligently for across generations, and rightfully, Rolex has earned it and continues to maintain its status at the top of the industry. Breguet, a stylish name in the watch industry, comes in at number six on the list of top watchmakers, behind leader Rolex.

Aesthetes of fine timepieces and the industry’s history are most likely to recognize the name Breguet. They made more substantial early contributions to the age-old expertise of heptic watchmaking, making them a more crucial historical brand than Rolex. Rolex is far and away the more well-known watchmaker than Breguet.

Brand Prestigeousness

Rolex may be the best-known unique timepiece brand, yet it is often ranked behind Breguet in terms of prestige. This is one of those itnricacies of branding where being extremely well-known can be viewed by some as a hindrance – more obscure brands often can get misconstrued as offering more appeal as they are more rare and less likely to be worn en masse.

Breguet is among the oldest companies continuously operating in the world of timepiece manufacturing. They have established themselves as an expert in watchmaking thanks to their numerous inventions, developments, and achievements.

Horology

Abraham Louis Breguet was responsible for the creation of a number of remarkable pieces that have contributed to the enigma and mystery that surrounds mechanical watchmaking nowadays. Rolex may have improved upon the self-winding rotor that Breguet invented, but compared to Breguet, they haven’t achieved nearly as many significant advancements in the watch industry.

This is a little-known fact that many not familiar with the fine details of watchmaking are not privy to, but for watch enthusiasts and collectors, it is one worth noting. In particular, the limited edition Marie-Antoinette pocket watch was the most complex timepiece Breguet ever made. Its manufacturing came with no constraints on time or money. Breguet watchmakers worked on it for 44 years, spanning two generations. Through this success, Abraham-Louis Breguet became the best watchmaker in history.

Resale Value

With all other brands considered, Rolex is superior in this regard. Rolex watches are the most sought-after because of their prestige and excellent resale value. For individuals seeking to own a worthy watch that will retian its worth for longer, Rolex is the brand they can rely on.

Retail Value

Breguet watches start at a price point almost double that of the entry-level Rolex. However, many factors beyond the manufacturer’s suggested retail price determine their true market worth. When compared with Rolex, the suggested retail price of a Breguet is significantly more.

On the other hand, Rolex prices have soared in recent years, notably for their most popular and unique sports models. There’s a chance that some will double their suggested retail price. Specifically, Rolex’s decision to delay goods, which has driven up demand, is to blame.

Water Resistance

Breguet and Rolex both make dive watches and both brands are known for producing excellent pieces to add to their collections. A Breguet Marine Royale dive watch with a water resistance of 300 metres is sufficient for recreational scuba divers.

However, if you’re a professional scuba diver, you’ll need a watch with at least 600 meters of water resistance. The Rolex Sea-Dweller is an excellent illustration of this because it can withstand depths up to 1220 meters. With a 3900m/12800ft rating, this watch is more than ten times more resistant to water.

Warranty

Rolex provides a warranty duration for their watches that no other company offers. The warranty duration for Rolex watches is for five years. In comparison to Rolex, the warranty duration offered by Breguet is just two years. Still, in the luxury watch industry, a two-year guarantee holds a considerable value to be standard.

FAQs

What is your opinion about Breguet as a watch company?

It’s been a while since a descendant of Abraham Louis Breguet was in control of this famous watchmaker, but preserving the founder’s heritage remains a top concern. Look here for incredibly well-crafted, crazily intricate timepieces with Breguet’s signature hands with a tiny circle around the hand’s tip.

Patek Philippe vs. Breguet finishing: Which one is most appealing?

Apart from Rolex, Patek Philippe has the greatest average resale value in the industry, and its corporate motto tries to subtly and gracefully underline that fact. The Patek Philippe offers a higher level of appeal than the FP Journe and Braquet.

Rolex vs. Lange vs. Breguet: Which one stands out the most?

Rolex, Lange, and Breguet are the three competent brands that are all popular among watch enthusiasts. Rolex is popular due to its history, marketing, and quality of its watches. Breguet has loads of high-end watches that attract every watch lover. However, the Lange has a next-level shape and structure that fixes at heart and upgrades your personality up the roof.

Which one will you choose: Breguet Type XXI vs. Rolex Daytona?

Rolex Daytona is a name of prestige among watch fans. Individuals who want to uplift their personality tend to bring a Rolex Daytona home. Though it has a supremacy legacy, Breguet Type XXI is a competent and prominent alternative to Rolex Daytona. Though the styles are different, their impact on your looks remains intact.

Is Breguet more expensive than Rolex?

The entry cost, as well as the retail price, are the two essential values determining prices. Though Rolex is a high-end brand with high prestige and a luxurious feel, the Breguet is not the less. Both cost of entry and retail price of the Breguet watch is more than any Rolex watch.

Is Breguet worth buying?

Breguet watches are mass-produced, implying that their supply-demand value is robust. The value depreciates when something has an excellent supply more than its demand. Therefore, these watches do not retain their worth over time, and you can’t mark them as an investment. They are not investments but rather consumption goods.

How prestigious is Breguet?

Breguet is quite a prestigious brand due to its rich history, robust advertising strategy for average-class individuals, and high-end watches. Since the quality is the best, the entry and retail costs are high for Breguet watches. This way, it ranks higher as the most prestigious watch brand.

What are better watches than Rolex?

While Grand Seiko is a direct rival of Rolex regarding price, elegance, and craftsmanship, Seiko provides more economical alternatives that look wonderful, have a rich history, and do not cost an arm and a leg. The Seiko Prospex SPB155J1, often known as the Seiko Alpinist among enthusiasts, is an excellent example.

Conclusion

In the market for a luxury wristwatch, you will discover a vast selection of possibilities, and of course, your own perception of what components are the most important when it comes to selecting a watch is what truly matters. The collector must examine the watch’s beauty, functionality, and the user’s wants and desires.

The choice of watchband is essential since it has a robust impact on an individual’s personality. At the end of the day, any of the watches from these brands would be considered a step above typical brands, but an astute eye and research informs the final decision.

Rolex vs. Zenith Watches (EVERYTHING You Should Know)

Posted on August 28, 2022August 24, 2023 by William Boyd

The question we will tackle today is whether I should choose either a Zenith or Rolex timepiece for my next purchase. Purely from the standpoint of brand recognition, the hands-down selection would be a Rolex. Rolex is perhaps the most recognizable luxury watch in all the world, but to truly make an informed and subjective decision, we will discuss the similarities and differences between both brands.

Zenith’s History

We will begin by providing some background on the Zenith brand. The company was started in 1865 by Georges Favre-Jacot in Neuchatel, and is one of the longest operating and manufacturing watch houses in all of Switzerland. Favre-Jacot is the originator of the concept of “in-house movements” where every aspect of the watch manufacturing process was controlled in-house.

He believed that only true perfection could be achieved by controlling every facet of a watch’s conception to its finished product. He built a vertically integrated operation and in 1900 he won the Grand Prix award at the Paris World’s Fair for his Zenith movement. By 1911, the company would bear the name Zenith as its official brand.

Throughout the early 1900s, Zenith continued garnering awards for excellence in chronometry. The caliber 26x and the caliber 135 movements were introduced and contributed to the eventual accumulation of over 2300 awards for chronometry and precision timekeeping. The watches may not be COSC certified, but Zenith is renowned for its rigorous accuracy standards.

Zenith purchased movement maker Martel in 1959. This opened the door to the development of the El Primero chronograph movement, which is perhaps one of the greatest contributions to the watchmaking world. This movement was introduced on Jan.10, 1969, and was the very first automatic chronograph timepiece and possessed a frequency of 36,000 VpH. Because of this high rate, the movement offers great positional accuracy and resolution.

Another major development was the use of CAD to develop an ultra-thin movement that ranged from 2.83mm to 6.2mm. (depending upon the array of complications incorporated). Characteristics of the movements included an annual Glucydor balance wheel, a self-compensating balance spring, and an automatic winding mechanism with a large diameter tungsten carbide rotor mounted on ball bearings.

These movements operate at 28,800 VpH and require minimal maintenance. These very precise movements were awarded “Best movement of the Year” at the Basil Fair in 1994. Another triumph in development, design, and assembly for Zenith.

Rolex’s History

Rolex, surprisingly, has been around for a far shorter time than Zenith and compared to most other luxury Swiss brands. This is an even greater testimony to the success of the Rolex brand and the reputation the company enjoys today. Much of this success is attributable to Hans Wilsdorf, the English entrepreneur responsible for the creation of the brand.

Though conceived in England, Wildorf created the Rolex brand in 1908 and would ultimately move the entire operation to Geneva, Switzerland where he would create the first water-proof self-winding wristwatch with a perpetual rotor. In fact, a patent was issued to Rolex in 1926 for the world’s first waterproof watch, what today is the oyster case.

Rolex has filed for over 500 patents over the history of its existence for innovations that range from their movements to their exclusive Cerachrom bezels and bezel inserts. Cerachrom is a ceramic material that is virtually impervious to scratches and its color is unaffected by the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Rolex today is a completely vertically integrated company with every step of the watch’s conception to completion performed by the Rolex team. To assure the continued success and commitment to producing the highest quality timepieces, Rolex has an exclusive training center that educates, trains, and acclimates every employee to their culture of excellence as well as one of the most rigorous testing labs to ensure the integrity of every watch.

There is even a department of tribology where the scientific study of friction, wear, lubrication, and how moving parts interact in every aspect of a watch’s movement and physical parts exists in order to continue Rolex’s constant perfection in watchmaking. Another attribute of the Rolex collection is its commitment to precision and accuracy.

In this aspect, Rolex and Zenith share a common trait, though every Rolex is not only a certified chronometer but a superlative chronometer as reflected by the certificate and green seal that accompanies each wristwatch. The parameters of accuracy exceed those required by the COSC. which are -4/+6 seconds per day. The superlative identification reflects a deviation of -2/+2 seconds daily.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona vs. Zenith Chronomaster Sport

We will now compare two of the most popular watches available in each brand’s collections. The present-day Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is outfitted with a caliber 4130 self-winding chronograph movement housed in a 40mm. case constructed from 904L stainless steel. This type of steel is made up of various alloys that are particularly resistant to corrosion.

The original Daytona was unveiled in 1963. From 1963-1988, the Daytona had a mechanical chronograph movement made by ETA Valjoux. From 1988- 2000, Rolex procured the Zenith El Primero automatic chronograph movement for use in the Daytona. These models were referred to as the “Rolex Zenith” or the “Zenith Daytona.”

According to the Rolex website, there were modifications made to the El Primero movement by their watchmakers, but for the most part, a majority of the movement’s parts and construction were provided by Zenith. The current in-house produced movement employs a vertical as opposed to a lateral clutch to activate the chronograph.

It has a larger mainspring, increasing the power reserve feature to 72 hours and the movement features a Parachron hairspring which offers greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations. An easy way to determine if the Daytona you are handling has an El Primero movement is if the running seconds’ indication subdial is at the nine position.

Also, if there is a 60 on the subdial, the watch has a Zenith movement. Since 2000, Rolex has made many modifications and improved its caliber 4130 movements to increase its accuracy and precision. The pre-2000 Daytonas are highly collectible due to the Zenith El Primero relationship. The Daytona collection base model in stainless steel retails for approximately $14,000.00 and prices increase rapidly from there.

The Zenith Chronomaster Sport, though not as popular as the Rolex Daytona, is a beautiful watch in its own right. The entrance price point for a Chronomaster Sport is approximately $11,000.00 retail in stainless steel with an 18kt. rose gold model running almost $40,000.00. The diameter of the watch is 41mm. and has a self-winding chronograph movement composed of 311 components and resonates at 36,000 VpH. It has a black ceramic bezel and a striking three-color dial and a power reserve of 60 hours.

The Chronomaster Open, introduced in 2003 is worth mentioning here for it has a partially open dial that exposes the regulating organ and the escapement of the watch. This unique feature lends further to the allure and appearance of the timepiece.

Next, we will compare some of the major characteristics and attributes of the Zenith and Rolex collections. The selection of models varies greatly between each brand. Zenith offers about 10 percent of the models and variations in comparison to Rolex. Zenith has 4 distinct collections and is grouped as follows; Defy, Elite, Pilot, and the Chronomaster.

The Defy collections are men’s and women’s watches that combine cutting-edge manufacturing with futuristic forms and materials. The Elite timepieces are ultra-thin dress watches and automatic movements. Most are available with a strap and reflect a purist and classic watch fashion. Lastly, the Pilot segment is probably the most renowned after the Chronomaster.

Zenith created the very first pilot and aviation watch and trademarked the term “Pilot” in 1904. To this day, the Zenith Pilot watch is the only watch that has the word “Pilot” on the dial. Rolex, on the other hand, has over 1400 different models with some of the most popular styles being the Presidential, Submariner, Daytona, GMT Master, Sea Dweller, and others.

Another major difference between the two is the timepieces available for women. Here, there is no comparison. Zenith offers a few ladies’ models whereas Rolex has several styles to choose from made in steel, steel, and gold, all 18kt. yellow. rose, or white gold. In addition, women can opt for diamond markers, bezels, and diamond-encrusted bracelets.

Many Rolex models have the distinctive cyclops magnifying lens over the date window at the three o’clock position on the dial. The luster and sparkle of the fluted bezels make a Rolex standout in the sea of swiss luxury watches and the durability and superior water resistancy of the oyster case lend to the watch’s practicality and appeal.

Rolex is probably the most recognized Swiss luxury watch available today. The success of the brand is a virtual case study in creating a luxury item that grows in demand and popularity year after year. In using effective marketing, exclusive distribution, and promotion through partnering and sponsorship of golf, equestrian events, and a host of other prominent sports and activities Rolex has become one of the distinct reflections of success.

The Presidential model is prominent in many board rooms around the world and wearing a Rolex says as much about an individual as the automobile they drive or what zip code they live in. Concerning retail prices, purchasing either a base model Rolex Oyster Perpetual or the least expensive Zenith Elite will cost you about $6000.00.

Resale and Warranties

If resale value is something you are concerned with before purchasing your watch, Rolex would be the better purchase hands down. Even if this is not a consideration at the time of purchase, Rolex watches hold their value better than any other brand on the market. Certain models such as the Daytona are so sought after that older models sell for well over their purchase price in the after-market. Unfortunately, Zenith timepieces, like almost every other brand, do not hold their value as well.

On the subject of warranty, Rolex offers a five-year warranty which is generous compared to most Swiss luxury brands. Zenith watches come with a more standard two-year warranty which is commonplace amongst Swiss watch houses.

In discussing the precision and accuracy of each brand, both Rolex and Zenith produce highly accurate movements. As aforementioned in this article, Rolex watches are not only certified chronometers satisfying the standards set forth by the COSC but bear the “Superlative Chronometer” label because they exceed these standards.

The Zenith movements are very accurate, but they are not certified chronometers. Arguably though, the El Primero is still regarded as the most accurate automatic chronograph movement for measuring time. It too is not a certified chronometer. The only characteristic where Zenith might be considered superior to Rolex is in terms of high horology watches.

High Horology encompasses the realm of watches that incorporate added complications to their movements. Examples of high complications are minute repeaters, perpetual calendars, and tourbillons. Few watch companies are able to create these complications which add considerable prestige to their brand. Zenith created the very first high-beat tourbillon which oscillates at 36,000 VpH or 5 Hz.

While Rolex has some complicated movements such as the caliber 9001 powering the “Sky Dweller” model, the collection is more known for its construction and accuracy. It would be fair to mention that the caliber 9100 movement holds 14 patents making the “Sky Dweller” a pretty impressive model in its own right.

Zenith Vs. IWC timepieces

The question has been posed: are Zenith watches comparable to IWC timepieces? I do not believe there is a simple answer. In making an educated comparison, we will start by discussing the history of IWC. IWC or the International Watch Company, as it is more formally known, was founded in 1868 by the American watchmaker and businessman Florentine Ariosto Jones.

While in Boston, Massachusetts, Jones conceived the idea of combining advanced American production technologies with the skilled craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers. With this mandate, Jones traveled to Switzerland to start his venture. Upon arriving in Switzerland, he did not receive the warmest reception in places like Geneve or other Swiss centers of watchmaking.

Perhaps this was due to Jones being a foreigner or that the watchmakers in these regions were wary of an outsider and his vision. Instead of becoming discouraged, he went as far north as he could and set up shop in Schafhausen near the German border and on the Rhine river. Being on the Rhine river became a prescient decision because it enabled IWC to harness the river’s flow to provide hydroelectric power for its factory.

This has led to IWC being a major proponent of using renewable energy, making sustainability a prime focus, and a commitment to accelerating biodiversity efforts within the watch industry. As per the corporate website, the purpose of IWC is “Engineering Beyond Time”. Transparency, circularity, and responsibility are the guiding principles and inspire all that the company pursues.

Six collections comprise the IWC brand. The “Pilot’s Watch” has a starting retail price of $4250,00. The “Portofino” starts at $5050.00. The “Davinci” with an opening price tag of $5550.00. The “Ingenieur” with an entrance price point of $4750.00. The “Aquatimer” begins at $5950.00. And lastly the “Portugieser” collection.

The “Portugieser” timepieces are some of the most complicated wristwatches produced in Switzerland. The watches exhibit superior craftsmanship and are like works of art. $7500.00 will get you a base model with prices ranging into the hundreds of thousands of dollars for the most sophisticated and complicated models. In conclusion, IWC offers a wider array of complicated watches than Zenith.

Zenith Vs. Omega

Another question often asked, is how do Zenith watches compare to Omega watches? Omega is a Swiss luxury timepiece that is counted amongst the ten most recognizable brands around the world. Omega was founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux de Fonds, Switzerland. The watch company did not incorporate the “Omega” name until 1903 and even then it was known as a combination of Brandt and Omega.

The major feature that distinguishes Omega watches from other brands is that each is a master chronometer. To achieve this classification, the movements are not just certified chronometers by the COSC (Swiss chronometer testing institute) for accuracy, but they are then put through more precision testing by METAS.

METAS is the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology. The movements are put through eight additional tests and must fall within certain parameters of accuracy. Whereas the COSC accepts results of -4/+6 seconds per day after the METAS tests the range is 0/+5, 0/+6, and 0/+7 seconds per day depending upon the caliber size of the movement.

The Omega watch line offers over 500 models and has a starting retail price of approximately $5000.00. A basic “Rail Master” is about $4900.00. and a basic divers watch will run you about $5100.00. Women’s watches start at approximately $6000.00. There is great depth to the women’s selections with styles ranging from the classic to models adorned with diamonds and gemstones in solid gold.

There are four distinct subgroups within the collection. Seamaster, Speedmaster, Constellation, and Deville. These groups are also made up of subgroups of assorted styles with choices that most would find appealing.

Omega has many notable inventions and patents it has acquired during its history. The company created the first Master Chronometer Tourbillon and presently offers four models that range from $137,000.00 to over $700,000.00 retail. These handcrafted watches come with either manual winding or self-winding movements and range in case size from 38.7 mm. to 44 mm.

These models are inspired by the first tourbillon wristwatch caliber Omega, created in 1947. Unlike the conventional tourbillon movements where the cages rotated once every minute, the Omega rotated once every 7.5 minutes. This provided greater accuracy leading to the movement being recognized as the most accurate recorded timepiece in 1949.

Another iconic chapter in Omega’s history was the development of the “Moon” watch. This watch was launched in 1957. In 1962, it was the first watch in space when it was worn by Wally Schirra for the Mercury Mission on Oct. 3, 1962.

Nasa subsequently qualified the watch for manned missions in 1965, and astronaut Buzz Aldrin wore it when he walked on the moon on July 21, 1969. Thus Omega became known as “The First Watch on the Moon.” Omega offers a five-year warranty on all of its timepieces making it comparable to Rolex in this respect.

Conclusion

Given the above analysis, I leave you to render your own decision as to the various brand comparisons. Rolex is by far the highest recognized brand of the four brands mentioned in this article. Zenith watches are accurate but have a limited appeal because of the narrow selection of styles. There is a great emphasis on chronographs, and rightfully so given the reputation and success of the EL Primero movement, but this ultimately limits the pool of watch buyers. Both Omega and IWC are far more recognizable Swiss luxury brands and have their own distinct styles and complications that would appeal to both a sophisticated buyer and a watch collector.

All four brands are high-quality timepieces. If you are seeking recognition in your timepiece, then the Rolex should be your choice. After Rolex, Omega probably has the most to offer as far as diverse styles appealing to anyone wanting a luxury watch. The ladies’ pieces in gold with diamonds and gemstones are incredible pieces of jewelry and worthy to be worn to any gala or other social function.

For a watch with different complications, IWC would be my choice but Omega should be considered especially for a tourbillon movement. Lastly, any watch enthusiast with deep pockets would do well to desire to have a Zenith with an El Primero movement in their collection.

Rolex vs. Cartier Watches (EVERYTHING You Should Know)

Posted on August 20, 2022August 24, 2023 by William Boyd

If you are into luxury watches and say that you’ve never heard of Rolex and Cartier, you are bound to be viewed with skepticism as everyone knows these brands, whether or not they can afford them! Rolex and Cartier are premium watch brands that are synonymous for generations for their distinction, class, and aesthetic. Owning one signifies many things to many people and they are a status symbol like no other for watch aficionados.

Maybe you’re looking to buy one of these expensive watches. Choosing which brand to use could be challenging for you as there are so many to select from, each bringing something unique to the table that is worth researching depending on your particular interests.

Perhaps you want to know which brand is the best. Again, this lies in the eyes of the beholder and is up to a spirited debate. In this post, we will compare Rolex vs. Cartier to find which one stands out as having the finest qualities. But first, let’s start with a background check and history of both the watchmakers.

History Of Rolex

Theoretically, the history of Rolex started in 1905, when creator Hans Wilsdorf founded a London business focused on the distribution of watches. To understand the complete narrative, though, you must go back to 1903, when the businessman born in Germany first packed up and traveled over the pond with nothing but a dream in mind. This dream, as well documented, became a reality in quick succession.

Approximately two years later, he and his brother-in-law Alfred Davis established the Wilsdorf and Davis business. Little did the couple realize that fame, money, and widespread praise awaited them just three years later. Wilsdorf experienced inspiration while traveling in one of London’s well-known double-decker buses.

Wilsdorf started sourcing the production of all Rolex timepieces from the legendary Maison Aegler in Bienne, Switzerland. Although the quality was excellent, Wilsdorf insisted that every component function flawlessly together. He worked hard to achieve this goal and was the first wristwatch vendor to receive an officially validated Chronometric Certification in 1910.

Wilsdorf relocated Rolex from London to Geneva as England imposed a hefty 33% tax on custom imports, which impacted the firm. Tragic events occurred to the Wilsdorf family just one year before Rolex celebrated its 40th anniversary. Florence, Hans’ loving wife, went away unexpectedly. Wilsdorf never had kids with Florence and was orphaned when he was 12.

The Hans Wilsdorf Foundation acquired control of the business upon Wilsdorf’s death in 1960. Initially, the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation gave its earnings to organizations involved in the watch industry, including the Swiss Watchmaking Research Facility in Neuchâtel. As the 2010s began, the Foundation extended its influence by giving $100 million to the Geneva branch of HEAD, an applied arts college.

History Of Cartier

Louis-Francois Cartier started Cartier in Paris in 1847 after taking over his master’s factory. The first Cartier store was opened in 1859, despite the significant insecurity and uncertainty caused by the unfolding French Revolution. Cartier continued to prosper and flourish over the following ten years. Alfred Cartier, the son of Louis-Francois Cartier, took control of the firm in 1874. Alfred had far better business sense and aspirations of swiftly expanding the company than his father.

Alfred played a crucial role in exposing Cartier to the royal families of Europe and beyond; King Edward VII was a particular fan of Cartier’s creations. Cartier saw tremendous success in the late 1800s, and in 1899 they finally erected a shop in the Rue de La Paix district of Paris. This was a pivotal move that shaped the success of the company for generations to come.

Although Alfred successfully made Cartier the preferred choice of the French aristocracy, his sons Louis, Pierre, and Jacques would make the Cartier name well-known worldwide. Eventually, the Cartier brothers developed the regionally acclaimed brand into global fame that is still around more than 150 years later through a range of fortunate international exposure, wise strategic choices, and sound marriage alliances.

From its establishment in 1847 until 1964, Cartier remained a family-owned business. Even though it is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Swiss Richemont Group, its main office is still in Paris.

Rolex vs. Cartier- Luxury Brand Name

Almost everyone is familiar with the Rolex name, and compared to the Cartier brand name, it unquestionably carries greater weight. Just consider how frequently you hear the names “Rolex” and “Cartier” compared to one another.

Since the beginning, Rolex has been at the forefront of watch innovation. For example, Rolex was the first watch company to produce fully water-resistant watches and timepieces with an automated date change. This was a game-changer in the industry and forced any watch brand intereted in maintaining a certain cache to follow suit or fall by the wayside in terms of what is considered a top-tier brand.

In addition, Rolex watches are among the most accurate on the market in terms of accuracy. On the other hand, Cartier was first created for pilots but has now become linked with the royal and the wealthy. In today’s world, both these brands are considered to be for the elite class. Whether you wear one or the other, what no one mistakes is that they are both signature brands of the elite and wealthy.

Final Verdict On Luxury Brand Name

According to the above arguments and, we are sure, your personal experience, Rolex certainly enjoys a vastly more significant level of brand awareness than Cartier. Indeed, they are both well-known premium timepieces, but Rolex is the undisputed leader in the luxury watch industry.

Rolex vs. Cartier- Build Quality

Both Rolex and Cartier produce manual and quartz analog timepieces. Both of these manufacturers provide luxury timepieces built in Switzerland using premium components. Although they also offer gold and platinum casings, Rolex and Cartier’s watches tend to have stainless steel cases in most cases.

But because Rolex uses a kind of stainless steel known as 904L stainless steel, its stainless steel casings stand out. This kind is more resistant to corrosion than others. Both brands, however, also feature sapphire crystal dial windows.

The water resistance is the component which comes next. Although the versions from each company will differ, they all have a typical water resistance of roughly 100 meters. Nevertheless, Rolex does offer versions with a maximum water resistance of 1220 meters.

Final Verdict On Build Quality

There may be some that debate this, but a fact is a fact. Rolex is superior to Cartier in terms of build quality. The stainless steel frame and rigid water resistance of its timepieces are unrivaled. On the other hand, Cartier isn’t too far behind in terms of build quality, but Rolex has the slight edge.

Rolex vs. Cartier – Style

Cartier watches typically adhere to the rules of fashion in terms of style. Cartier’s background as a jeweler before a watchmaker still has some merit despite having a few more products in other categories. The fact that Cartier watches come in a range of case designs is an advantage that many never overlook.

Cases for Cartier watches come in a few varieties and can be round, square, or even tonneau-shaped. But Rolex tends to remain with a more rounded case style for most of its watches. Cartier’s variety of case forms is undoubtedly a bonus, but it doesn’t guarantee victory in this contest.

Most of the time, Cartier watches are more of a dress accessory. On the other hand, Rolex continues to uphold more excellent standards despite being a well-known premium brand. They can fit various themes and styles, including athletic, casual, and formal. Their stylistic adaptability partially offsets their lack of variation in case forms.

Final Verdict On Style

Both watch brands seem to have advantages and disadvantages in terms of style. Cartier will be the ideal choice if you’re seeking a genuine luxury dress watch with a selection of case shapes. However, despite the lack of choice in case forms, Rolex might be a better option if you’re searching for a premium watch that can go with various outfit styles. Therefore, we would like to call it a draw in style.

Rolex vs. Cartier – Pricing

Cartier watches are often more affordable than Rolex watches in terms of price. Cartier would be the preferable choice to consider first if you are starting in the luxury watch market, even though they are by no means inexpensive.

Many consumers that are just beginning their journey into the luxury watch game may choose one over the other and refuse to change their minds on which one should be the first to add to their coterie, but for those that are strictly going by price, then the Rolex brand offers more affordable options.

On the other hand – and a fact that should not be forgotten or overlooked – Rolex has a higher resale value. Therefore, a Rolex can be a better choice if you don’t want to keep your fancy watch forever because you’ll receive more cash back if you decide to sell it.

Final Verdict on Pricing

Once more, there is a situation when the two watches are somewhat comparable. A Cartier will cost less upfront, but a Rolex could be a superior investment over time. The Rolex will cost more, but you can get your money back when you sell the watch in the future.

Best Rolex Watches

Rolex Datejust 16233

The Rolex 16223 was initially made public in the late 1980s. It was the first two-tone Datejust 36 watch to have a sapphire crystal. The Datejust 16233, the most remarkable men’s Rolex watch, was the final 36mm model to provide the collection’s traditional case quality and dimensions before Rolex redesigned the Datejust to include thicker lugs with an entirely perfect look.

The Rolex Datejust 16233, less flashy than its six-digit predecessor, has recently become popular because it combines traditional style with contemporary worry-free comforts like scratch-resistant sapphire glass and the dependable Caliber 3135 movement.

Rolex Daytona 116500LN

Rolex launched this masterpiece back in 2016, and it took the whole luxury watches market by storm. The Daytona 116500LN, made of stainless steel and features a black Cerachrom bezel, has been entirely out of stock at shops worldwide for over six years and continues to be one of the most well-liked Rolex models, both on the secondary market and at retail.

The Rolex Daytona 116500LN is available with a black or white dial, and the white variants are frequently the most popular with consumers today. Nevertheless, each has multi-year store queues, which may be found for more than their selling value on the used watch market.

Rolex Submariner 16610

Perhaps one of Rolex’s most iconic and well-liked timepieces is the Submariner. The Submariner is sturdy and very powerful, with an Oyster casing for maximum water resistance up to 300 meters. It was first created with deep-sea explorers in mind. The most excellent Rolex watch, the stainless steel Rolex Submariner model 16610, has a stylish black dial with luminous hour markers visible in dim or adverse lighting.

This specific Submariner model was produced until 2010, when Rolex stopped making it and unveiled an improved version of their renowned diver’s watch with noticeably bigger lugs, more comprehensive hands, more extensive hour markings, and a Cerachrom ceramic bezel.

Best Cartier Watches

Cartier Tank MC

The Cartier Tank is a must-have on any list of Cartier watches, whether for men or women. The Tank, as its name implies, was inspired by tanks, particularly the powerful ones that swept through Europe during World War One. Today, it is considered a classic example of fine craftsmanship and is an isntant status symbol and indicator of elegance for anyone wearing one.

Even though many of its characteristics have altered since the legendary watch originally appeared on Parisian streets in 1919, it still retains the square case that caught people’s eye immediately. Several items from the Tank line look great on both male and female wrists, and the Tank MC, however, has a very macho feel.

Drive De Cartier Extra-Flat

This iconic watch has a distinctive cushion-shaped casing that stands out in the Driveshaft. We’re discussing 6.6mm thin. Even though it is so thin, it has enough weight never to feel delicate. It is an excellent choice for men that lead active lifestyles and desire a sleeker appearance that is versatile enough to be worn to a variety of functions.

The casing is shaped unusually, and conventional Roman numerals on its front contrast it and give it a more vintage appearance. This lovely watch dresses up nicely for formal excursions on a blue alligator strap when a satin-brushed sunburst dial is added.

This watch looks great on female wrists, much like many others in the Cartier collection. With dimensions of 39 mm broad and 38 mm high, the slightly bulky casing yells masculinity but bolder women can definitely pull off the look!

Santos De Cartier Chronograph

A prominent Brazilian pilot, Alberto Santos-Dumont, collaborated with Cartier to design the company’s first wristwatch. The Santos de Cartier Chronograph, a replica of the initial watch in design and functionality, carries on its history.

First, the well-known square casing is now a substantial 43.3mm x 51.4mm. It has a similarly substantial 12.5mm thickness for a masculine feel. Roman numerals that are distinctive to Cartier make the dial easy to identify. This one has a bolder, diagonal design that resembles a sports watch. This watch seems sensible to incorporate Cartier’s recognizable quick Switch band technology. The adaptable watch can easily switch between a belt clip, an alligator skin, and a steel band.

Conclusion

Thus, according to the research, Rolex is the superior watch overall. But in the end, since each person is unique, it depends on personal preferences. It all comes down to your financial capacity and the goals you have for the watch when you purchase it. But in the end, both Rolex and Cartier are excellent options for luxury watches! If the prices for these brands are out of your price range, you could want to check into other high-end alternatives that have the same design as a luxury watch but are less expensive!

Do Rolex Watches Hold Their Value? (READ This Before You Buy)

Posted on August 6, 2022August 8, 2023 by William Boyd

Rolex has built a reputation of being one of the most reliable watch brands to invest in. From their inception in 1905, Rolex has consistently crafted high quality timepieces for all occasions. We’ve seen the Rolex crown on the wrist of many influential leaders throughout history from famous athletes like Tiger Woods and Roger Federer to various US Presidents who influenced the coining of the Day-Date’s nickname, the “President.”

We can all agree that Rolex has done an outstanding job at building and maintaining such a highly revered presence in the watch market, which in turn has made them a great brand to invest in.

Do Rolexes Appreciate in Value as They Age?

In general, Rolexes are great investment pieces but that doesn’t mean yours will automatically increase in value as soon as you unbox it. The strongest indicator of value with a Rolex is rarity. Throughout the rich history of Rolex, there have been many references that have experienced major appreciation due to their limited number or elusiveness in the market.

A great example of this would be the rising popularity of vintage Submariners. We have seen a noticeable increase in desire for various vintage Submariner references as they become harder to find in better conditions. The principle of scarcity increases the value of certain Rolexes. Some of these references sell in the gray market online or through dealers for 3x their retail value and some of them make it to the auction block of Sothebys or Phillips and sell for millions of dollars.

Today, modern Rolexes are in just as high demand. The demand is so high that Rolex has had to create waitlists for brand new Rolex models. Those on the waitlist may have to wait a couple of years before receiving a brand new watch. Because of this, the preowned Rolex market is booming. Many sought after models are circulating the market and trading at amounts a lot higher than their retail price.

Whether you acquire a vintage Rolex or opt for a modern timepiece, what matters is the quality of the watch, inside and out. Rolexes that achieve investment status are those that are serviced regularly and kept in good condition. These two factors will improve the longevity of your watch and quite possibly increase the value as well.

Top 5 Rolexes That Hold Their Value

Paul Newman Daytona

This Daytona made its way to fame on the wrist of Paul Newman the actor, director, and race car driver. Whether he was shooting for a movie or racing around the track, the Daytona he wore on his wrist gained a lot of attention. Over time collectors and enthusiasts of Rolex sport models have given this watch more attention, making it become more sought after.

There are only about 2,000-3,000 of these vintage models from the 1960’s-1970’s circulating the world and a couple of them have made it to auction selling for millions of dollars. Paul Newman’s actual Daytona (Ref. 6239) sold at Phillips Auction house for $17.8 million in 2017 and earned the title of the most expensive watch ever sold.

Cosmograph Daytona

The Daytona gained a ton of popularity from Paul Newman and Rolex decided to run with it. Created in honor of one of America’s racing capitals, the Daytona is a prime example of the unparalleled performance, design, and luxury that Rolex offers with their sport models. The Cosmograph Daytona has been produced with a wide variety of dials, case materials, and colors, making each of them exciting watches to collect and invest in.

More accessible than the Paul Newman Daytona, there are many Cosmopgraphs circulating the market. Although there are plenty of these Daytonas in the market, they are in high demand and are still trading between 2 and 3 times retail value. The Cosmograph Daytona is a great Rolex to invest in

Milgauss

The Milgauss is somewhat of an elusive Rolex. Launched in 1956, this watch was built with the scientist in mind. The Milgauss has a really strong resistance to magnetic fields, made for someone who may be working in a lab or in the field around areas of high magnetism. Although this was an incredible feat of innovation for Rolex, the main attraction to this watch is the orange lightning bolt seconds hand.

The Milgauss was discontinued in 1988 and wasn’t seen for almost 20 years. In 2007 Rolex picked up production on the new and improved Milgauss. This one features the same orange lightning bolt but now also features a green tinted sapphire crystal which helps legibility. With the large gap in production, the pre 2007 models are becoming more rare and coveted amongst the many new models hitting the market.

GMT Master II

One of the most popular models from Rolex, the GMT Master II is a fantastic example of a watch that holds value. Originally made for pilots and travelers, the GMT featured a separate hand on the dial to display another time zone. Those traveling across time zones would be able to simultaneously track the time of where they’re coming from and where they’re going.

This watch became an instant classic. The most noticeable characteristic of the GMT is the multicolored 24 hour bezel. The terms “Pepsi”, “Coke”, and “Batman” became nicknames for these models based on the two colors on the GMT bezel. Vintage models that have a “patina” or faded dial have become highly sought after due to their rare condition.

Vintage GMT’s are in high demand but the modern GMT’s are also a hot commodity on today’s market. A combination of updated designs and even a “left handed” model with the crown on the left side of the watch, keeps the GMT high on the list of Rolexes worth investing in.

Oyster Perpetual

Usually poised as Rolexes entry level watch, the Oyster Perpetual has always been slightly overlooked. The simple design has proven to be a Rolex classic but had never garnered much attention compared to the popular Submariners and Datejusts. 2020 was a monumental year for the Oyster Perpetual as Rolex released new models that immediately hit the spotlight.

Rolex introduced a new movement and larger case size with the new OP’s but the crowd pleaser was the variety of dial colors that were released. Oyster Perpetuals are now available in vibrant colors like teal, light pink, yellow, and green. These new models are now trading well over retail price.

Do Submariners Hold Their Value?

Within the variety of sport models Rolex offers, there are a couple that have been known to steadily hold or increase their value over time. The Submariner is one of Rolexes most iconic watches and has been placed on a pedestal of inspiration with many other watch brands riffing off the unmistakable dive watch design. Its durability, water resistance, in-house movement, and impeccable design make it a fantastic tool watch worth investing in.

The Submariner was first introduced in 1953 as a dive watch water resistant to 100 meters. The rotating 60-minute bezel is to aid divers in timing their dives. With plenty of lume throughout the dial, these watches were made to be highly legible. Over time, enthusiasts have started cult followings over specific models. Two green submariners known as the “Hulk” and “Kermit” are popular models that have become increasingly hard to find.

Aside from their sleek colorways, they’re also both discontinued making them even more rare. Vintage Submariner enthusiasts love to compare the details from reference to reference in order to identify the most rare references. The critical details on these vintage Rolexes ranged from the font, size of logo, and colors used for the words on the dial.

In 1959 and 2020 Rolex increased the case size of the Submariner. In 1969 the first gold Sub was introduced and in 1984 the first two-tone was launched. As collectors began to pay attention to the little changes from reference to reference, the excitement began. All of these factors can come into play and dramatically increase the value of the watch.

Submariners are great watches and have a lot of potential in today’s market. Historically they have done a fantastic job at holding their value over time and in many cases becoming more valuable. Submariners can be great opportunities for investment and a chance to be a part of Rolex history.

Do Datejusts Hold Their Value?

The Datejust is one of Rolexes most timeless models. First developed in 1945 this watch was featured for Rolexes’ 40th anniversary. It grew in popularity because of its Oyster case which was a waterproof design first introduced in 1926. The Datejust, a 36mm sized watch made it versatile for both men and women. It wasn’t until 2009 Rolex introduced a 41mm Datejust for those who wanted the same design in a larger case.

With each new release from Rolex, the Datejust continues to evolve and modernize both aesthetically and mechanically. Modern Datejusts also come with a COSC-certified chronometer movement that has 50 hours of power reserve. The Datejust 36 is also a highly customizable watch. There are plenty of options for different bracelets, dial colors, bezels, and metals to choose from.

If you’re looking at your Datejust as an investment piece it will be important to consider the quality and originality of your watch before making any aftermarket customizations. When it comes to the preowned or vintage markets, a custom Rolex does not guarantee an increase in value as much as originality might. The value of a Datejust can also range based on the materials used, the reference number, and age.

In today’s market, the value of a Datejust can vary from under to over retail price depending on the factors above. Unlike a vintage Sub or rare GMT, this watch most likely won’t see any drastic price changes in the near future but that doesn’t exclude the opportunity for it to gain value over time.

Although a Datejust may not seem like the most sure fire investment piece compared to other Rolex models, they have still followed the same trajectory of Rolex pricing over the last 100 years and have incrementally increased in value.

Best Rolex to Buy for Investment

When it comes to investing in Rolex, the stainless steel sports models are a no brainer. They are known for holding their value very well and on many occasions, increasing in value tremendously. The GMT Master II, Cosmograph Daytona, and Submariner are splendid options for investment. The models that come in a variety of colors tend to have potential to gain value depending on how the market shifts.

As Rolex continues to gain popularity around the world it has become easier for various models to gain a cult following and quickly become rare. The Submariner “Hulk” and GMT “Batman” are examples of watches that have gained a cult following and are now worth a lot more than they were just a couple years ago.

The GMT Master II is another solid option for a Rolex investment piece. The GMT has been in demand since its inception and will most likely remain a sought after design as long as they are being made. The ability to display multiple time zones simultaneously makes it a valuable tool for those who travel or work internationally.

The GMT is also equipped with a Rolex in house movement, ensuring precision and durability backed by Rolex. Although created to be a tool watch for pilots, the uniquely bold design has attracted many enthusiasts outside of the aviation community. Lovers of design appreciate the bi-colored bezels that pop with color and the high contrast dials that draw the eye inwards. The GMT has since shifted to more of a statement watch, adorning the wrist ofs sartorialists and rakish enthusiasts.

The Day Date is another Rolex well worth investing in. The Day Date was designed with luxury and status in mind. It was the first waterproof, self-winding watch to display a date and day window, a window spelling out the day of the week near the top of the dial. This new layout became a favorite to many and instantly became a coveted watch.

Rolex refers to the Day Date as “the ultimate status watch.” They are made with 18k gold or platinum which is usually reflected strongly in the retail price but also promises for great resale value as well. The timeless design of the Day Date will allow you to wear it for years on end without having concern about depreciating value.

A Rolex we haven’t mentioned in this article yet but shouldn’t go unrecognized is the Explorer II. The Explorer II is known for the cyclops above the date window, a 24 hour bezel, and 100 meter water resistance. Built with Rolexes most expensive and rugged stainless steel and featuring a bright lume on the indices, the Explorer II is truly built to be put to the test.

The new “Polar Dial” Explorers feature a large orange GMT hand standing out amongst the crisp black or white dial adding both an intriguing aesthetic and multiple timezone tracking capabilities. The Explorer, hence the name, was built for the modern adventurer who might find themselves in challenging or extreme conditions. Today the Explorer holds its value at a consistent rate. Don’t expect the value of your watch to randomly spike but instead slowly appreciate over time just as Rolexes do.

The watches listed above cover some of Rolexes most sought after models in today’s market. Rolex has many other models like the Sea-Dweller, Yacht-Master, and Air-King that all have their own value props as great investment pieces. As we discussed earlier, the value of your Rolex will always depend on a combination of the condition, features, and materials but also the market and what Rolex enthusiasts are demanding at the moment.

It seems there will always be the Rolex “classics” which we as collectors and enthusiasts can rely on when navigating the market and collecting Rolexes of our own but we also have no way of telling which models will have their moment in the future. As we’ve seen in the last few years, models like the Submariner “Hulk”, GMT “Batman”, or Oyster Perpetual “Turquoise” dial, have all dramatically increased in value due to market demand.

When investing in a Rolex it is highly important to learn about the history of the Rolex catalog and what models will be wise investment pieces. By understanding the brand’s history and catalog of models you’ll be able to make a better decision around which model will be best for you.

We encourage you to empower yourself and do your own research into Rolex based on your values, taste, and priorities. The history of Rolex is rich and has many facets that will undoubtedly capture the attention of any budding enthusiast.

Do Rolexes Ever Depreciate?

Rolex has built such a strong brand and reputation in the market that it’s rare for a Rolex to drastically decrease in value over time. If your Rolex is kept in great condition over the course of time it’s on your wrist, it will most likely maintain its value fairly well and sometimes noticeably increase in value. Your Datejust might dip slightly below retail value overtime or you might see your GMT increase in value as ages, it will always depend on the model and condition of your watch.

In the vintage Rolex market, a well kept and rare Submariner or GMT reference is worth a tremendous amount compared to how much it was sold for at retail price. A worn in unserviced Datejust might not be as desired as a pristine vintage model from the same year in great condition. There are no guarantees on which Rolex will give you the highest ROI but we can guarantee that you won’t regret taking care of your watch to ensure the longevity and durability the Rolex is known for.