Rolex Malaysian

Rolex model comparisons

Our Rolex model comparisons put two watches side by side, covering specifications, how they wear, what they cost new and used, and who each one suits.

All Rolex comparisons

All our Rolex model comparisons follow the same structure: a quick answer, a side-by-side specification table built from our reference data, a section on how the two watches wear, and a price table covering retail and three pre-owned conditions. It closes with a plain verdict.

Rolex model comparisons often start here: a Datejust 36 126200 with blue dial on an Oyster bracelet
The Datejust 36 126200 appears in two of our comparisons: against the Oyster Perpetual and against the larger Datejust 41.

How we judge Rolex model comparisons

We do not score watches out of ten in our Rolex model comparisons. Instead, each comparison looks at four practical questions. How does it wear on a real wrist? How easy is it to buy at retail, and what does the pre-owned market charge? What does it cost to own and service? Finally, how has its value behaved over time?

Specifications only settle part of a decision. For example, two millimetres of case size matter less than lug-to-lug length and bracelet taper. Likewise, a cheaper retail price means little if the watch is impossible to buy at retail. Where a decision mainly comes down to budget, our used Rolex price guide and the retail vs market price guide explain the numbers behind the verdicts.

Frequently asked questions

Which Rolex should I buy first?

For most people, a steel watch they will wear daily: a Submariner, Explorer, Datejust or Oyster Perpetual. Choose by wrist size and use rather than by hype. Our first Rolex buying guide goes through the options by budget.

Which Rolex holds its value best?

Steel professional models hold value best. The Daytona 126500LN and the GMT-Master II in steel trade above retail, and the Submariner Date sits about 30% above. Gold dress watches such as the Day-Date usually sell below retail pre-owned. See the used Rolex price guide for figures by collection.