Rolex has always been linked with luxury, quality, artistry, and the price that often goes with all that. For one of the world’s most elegant and expensive watch brands, it’s safe to say there’s no such thing as a cheap Rolex. (Fake ones don’t count) Still, some pieces are, if not cheap, at least less pricey than others. Are you on a budget? If so, then the list in regards to the cheapest Rolex for men gets narrower. Sad but true.

Yet, the good news is that cheap Rolex watches do exist. Moreover, it’s likely to purchase one without refinancing your home or vending your car. In this guide, you will find the cheapest Rolex for men that can suit you perfectly. We will also show you where to get that superb and affordable Rolex.

The Cheapest Rolex for Men – What to Look For

Before the search for the cheapest Rolex begins, let’s dive into what you should look for in the first place.

• Model. It goes without saying that there are numerous types of Rolex models to pick from. Each starts at a diverse price point, with some being cheaper than others. For those looking for the cheapest Rolex for men, you should consider the Datejust, Oyster Perpetual, as well as the Air-King. These styles won’t hit your wallet as much (although they’re still not precisely ‘cheap’).
• Movement. Today, Rolex watches are either self or manually winding. Be that as it may, this wasn’t always the case. The luxury watchmaker earlier produced a small portion of battery-powered timepieces named ‘Oysterquartz.’ This finished in 2001, but you can still find some of these pieces on the pre-owned market (and they may be some of the cheapest Rolex for men).
• Material. Keep in mind that your Rolex watch materials play a huge part in its worth. The bracelet, dial, and bezel structure can all impact the price. Platinum is typically the most expensive, then gold and stainless steel. The cheapest Rolex watches for men are often made from the latter. Bezels can consist of a mixture of materials. That includes gold, titanium, and ceramic. Still, you might also find luxuries such as diamonds.

#1 Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Quietly snuggled among a list of A-list headliners is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual. Of course, its genuinely remarkable look-alikes are craving your attention and money. Still, Rolex Perpetual is waiting for high-spirited watch lovers to make their moves.

Elegant and unique, without being extravagant or flashy, this Rolex watch is a great entry-level choice. It will set you back slightly over $4,000.

It delivers almost everything you require from a luxury timepiece without the overly exaggerated price tag. Thanks to its refined stainless steel case and white Roman numeral face, it’ll look amazing with your entire wardrobe. Whether you’re dressing for an office, a meeting, or lunch with friends, this is your best bet!

#2 Rolex Air King

Saving for and then purchasing a Rolex is no easy accomplishment. The starting cost alone is often prohibitive for most men.

So how precisely do you go about turning your ideal watch into a reality? Shopping in the pre-owned market clearly gets you a bunch more bang for your buck. This truly goes without saying!

You can find a pre-owned Rolex Air King for around $7,000. So it’s not spare change, but it’s one of the most affordable Rolexes you’ll come across.

It arrives with a 34mm stainless steel Oyster case, perfect for slimmer wrists.

#3 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36

Have you been typing in Google “best men’s gold Rolex for sale” or “best Rolex gold watches for men?” If yes, this model is just for you! Count in a few diamonds and a bit of gold, and certainly, you will need to sell your home to afford one. Not so accurate with this one. Yes, you may have to go easy on the takeouts for some time.

This pre-owned 1987 Rolex Datejust will cost you just over $6,000. Be that as it may, it does define a proper entry point into the world of luxury watches. Showcasing a whole lot of refinement and good taste, it has an 18k yellow gold and the famous stainless steel jubilee bracelet.

What’s more, it has a refined champagne dial with yellow gold-tone hands and diamond hour markers. So, you have found the cheapest Rolex for men, which is truly the fanciest.

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#4 Rolex Explorer II Polar

If you were to classify the Rolex Explorer, it sits someplace between a sporty and elegant watch. It was at first made for adventurers after the first climb to summit Mount Everest.

Today, it looks equally at home with superb tailoring and your best formal shirts. It would likely feel foolish to only wear it while on your weekend trek.

Yours for a bit under $12,000, it’s not quite the most affordable Rolex for men. Still, it is more affordable than other alternatives. The price tag is undoubtedly more appealing once you look at the traditional stainless steel with a long-lasting Oyster bracelet. It feels sporty enough to wear with pants and gym gear. Yet, it will impress everyone at your next work meeting. Telling time has never been deemed so pleasing.

#5 Rolex Explorer

The Explorer evolved to become a true “entry-level” Rolex sports model. This is mainly due to its price. It surely stays in that place to this day.

Similar to all Rolex models, the Explorer has been through so many sortings. This incorporates modern repetitions like the 14270 (1989-2001), now famous among vintage collectors as its tritium luminescence has finally shifted to beige. Rolex topped the case length with the 2002 getaway of the 39mm Explorer.

Notably, the Explorer came back to 36mm. This hints that the movement toward smaller timepieces is authentic nowadays. In 2021, Rolex surprised us with a two-tone norm, incorporating gold into the list for the first time.

#6 Rolex Datejust

Rolex brought their Oyster pieces (from the 1920s) and in 1945 incorporated the first date barrier that altered “just before” midnight. Rather than taking too much time to turn over. (Or was “simply,” as in “true-to-life,” relying on your rendition)

Looks like a simple thing, yet in the 1940s, and even now, that trait was unique and timely. The “Cyclops” date magnifier was there primarily on the Datejust from 1945.

Not overly sporty and not too formal. The Datejust is the terrific answer for a man who needs one watch to do it all. Rugged, waterproof, wear proof, but formal enough to wear to the office, the Datejust is a masterpiece that stays the centerpiece of Rolex’s record. Elementary, legendary, eternally in favor, a Rolex Datejust may be the only wristwatch you’ll ever need.

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#7 Rolex Submariner 2020

No, this one may not be the cheapest Rolex for men, but it’s still on the bit cheaper side. Rolex’s previous timepiece was the Sky-Dweller (2012). Prior to that, the Yachtmaster (1992) and before that, the Sea-Dweller (1971).

Gradual tweaks to watch stripes are what Rolex does – an office model that appears to be operating out for them. It illustrates why notice of a retooled Submariner, arguably Rolex’s single most iconic design, was one of the best watch releases of 2020.

Yes, you would require a microscope to locate any updates. Still, the tweaks aren’t so negligible. Inside, you can see a refreshed caliber, an nearly 50% boost in the power resource (up to 70 hours), and a new breakout. In totaling up: this 2020 Rolex is a structured masterpiece that will outlast everything.

Tip: Are you maybe a fan of cheaper watches? If so, take a look at the best-selling Invicta watches for men.

#8 Rolex Milgauss

In 1956, when this interesting men’s watch was released, the globe was busy with nuclear study, mainly at sites like CERN. That is the most cutting-edge particle accelerator now.

In the meantime, all the superb tech formed during WWII was being shifted to commercial uses, making engineers one of the most vital professional groups on the globe. Rolex offered them what they really needed, a watch that can resist 1,000 (“mil”) gauss.

Be that as it may, after 2007, it was a somewhat thrilling surprise for Rolex devotees. The lightning bolt seconds hand stays the most playful element of any Rolex model. The new interpretation isn’t fully impossible to obtain at retail. Also, more than any other Rolex model, the Milgauss is the perfect one to make you stand out. It is, by all means, a timepiece for those in the know.

Final Words

In the world of luxury watches, Rolex stands tall as a symbol of excellence and luxury. While some models might carry a hefty price tag, there are still affordable options for those seeking a taste of timeless grace. From the Rolex Oyster Perpetual to the Explorer II Polar, each piece exudes a distinct charm that captivates the discerning watch enthusiast. So, fear not the notion of a “cheap” Rolex. These magnificent timepieces remain within reach without compromising on quality and style. Embrace the allure of a Rolex or Patek, and let its elegance grace your wrist, leaving a lasting impression wherever you go.