Positioned as one of the most coveted collections, crafted and manufactured by one of the world’s most popular luxury brands, an authentic Rolex Datejust watch will always receive high interest from potential buyers.
Released back in the 1940s to celebrate Rolex’s 40th anniversary, the Datejust may not have the same professional claims and unique features as models like the Daytona and Submariner timepieces, but it remains a cornerstone of the watchmakers’ world. It is classy and simple by design, with a date window that changes itself at midnight.
For watch collectors and owners who are looking to sell a Rolex Datejust, the market can be a bit of a minefield. Do you sell to an independent buyer, or do you seek out a boutique reseller who buys stock and endeavours to sell it on? And where do you start when it comes to assessing value, condition, and everything in between?
To help potential sellers to get the best price and to navigate the market effectively, here are four of the most important things to consider when selling a Rolex Datejust.
1) Condition
The age of a Rolex Datejust can range from anywhere between a couple of years old and 80+ years old. Luxury watch enthusiasts will already know that there remains high demand for older and more vintage models, which are considered rare collectibles – in much the same way as an exclusive or limited-edition release can expect to sell for more money. But there is a catch, especially when looking at the older models.
The condition of the watch that you want to sell is critical. There’s a reason why so many watch collectors never wear or even open the boxes of their collectibles – and that’s because, when it comes to selling their model, the better the condition, the higher the price.
While we’re on the topic of condition, it’s also important to discuss the accessories and little extras that come with and around the watch you’re selling. This includes having all the right documentation and proof of purchase, with the watch nestled in the right box and with all the original packaging – with these extras needing to be in top condition.
2) Model
The popularity of the Rolex Datejust revolves around not only its distinctly wearable design and build but around the history and the core characteristics of the collection.
Despite there being various models released throughout the timepiece’s extensive history, the hallmarks of the Datejust remain the same. These include the oyster case, which gives the watch its waterproof quality; the date window framed in a cyclops lens; a decorative bezel surrounding the watch face; and the choice between an oyster or jubilee bracelet.
But, when it comes to selling a Rolex Datejust, simply stating the collective name of these watches is not enough. Buyers want to know the exact model of the piece they are looking at buying, to understand the small features and details that align with buyer preference and with ever-changing trends.
The easiest way to determine this is through the reference number that can be found on the watch. A four-digit code indicates an early model, while a five-digit code means the Rolex was released after 1977, and a six-digit reference code means the watch was made later than 2000.
A few other factors that can indicate the exact model and age of a timepiece, particularly in the Rolex Datejust collection, include:
- The presence of the Datejust label on the dial (this detail was not added until 1957)
- Whether the hour and minute markers are luminescent (added to models after 1959)
- The redesign of the case, which marked the 2000’s collection, with chunkier finishes and contemporary details
3) Colours and Materials
While the condition and model of a Datejust that you want to sell are both important details in valuing your timepiece, when it comes to finding a buyer, it is just as likely that they will look at colour and material finish.
This is where aesthetics become as important as quality, with the colours and materials of your Datejust impacting the way it looks as well as its underlying material value.
The Rolex Datejust Two-Tone, for example, is one of the most popular models, owing to its steel and gold bracelet, which became favoured by traders and city workers. The Rolex Datejust Wimbledon benefits from its unique design with green numbers that reference the scoreboards of the iconic London-based tennis tournament – as well as the fact that Roger Federer is a known fan of the watch. And then there are the precious material collections, which include the Datejust Diamond and Mother of Pearl timepieces. These items are luxurious to look at, with their high value solidified in the use of such a high-end material.
4) Who and Where You’re Selling It To
The fourth and final thing that you need to think about when selling a Rolex Datejust, or any luxury timepiece, is where and who you are selling to.
While the market is rife with auctions and independent buyers, the best and safest option is to sell to a reputable boutique reseller, who will protect your sale and who is committed to delivering the best experience and price, both to you as the seller and to a future buyer.
You can determine a reputable reseller by looking at their stock and considering their inhouse valuation process – how much weight they put on condition and on authentication checks, and how well they market goods that they buy and have in stock.
Here at Love Luxury, we work out of our boutique stores in London and Dubai – and are passionate about matching buyers and sellers alike with the best pieces to boost their collection. Whether you have a Datejust you want to sell for cash or are interested in exchanging for something new, or you want to add to your own collection, visit us in store today.
