In the world of luxury watches, there is no denying the prestige and sophistication that Rolex brings to the table. The iconic Swiss brand is known worldwide for its timeless designs, precision, and craftsmanship.
Although women can always wear any Rolex timepiece as they please, the brand has also thoughtfully created collections exclusively for women. In fact, given the wide range of Rolex watches for women, finding the perfect one can be a daunting task. Whether you’re looking for a classic design or something more modern, the five watches on this list are sure to impress.
In this article, we have named the 12 best Rolex watches for women to help you narrow down your choices:
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Best Rolex Watches for Women
1. Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual: Best for value | starts at $2,710 (as of May 2024)
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual traces its beginnings from the Oyster watch of 1926, most famously known as the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. This innovation was made possible by the Rolex patented Oyster case, which consisted of a hermetically sealed caseback and screw-down winding crown. This technology ensured that the watch was protected from dust, water, and other elements, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sports. The first series from the collection appeared in 1950, and finally the exclusive Rolex Oyster Perpetual for ladies was introduced in 1964.
One of the features that makes the Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection is the straightforward and classic design in stainless-steel, which keeps the price point approachable. As a time-only model, the Oyster Perpetual is also not excessively adorned or complicated, which makes it easy to pair with just about any ensemble. However, despite its simplicity, the watch is still crafted from high-quality materials and boasts exceptional functionality and reliability. If you’re considering just one watch for all occasions, the Oyster Perpetual is a safe bet.
The Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection is available in a range of sizes. The original Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual measured 24.6mm, and these are still available in the pre-owned market. In the current collection, the smallest size available is 28mm (with options of 31, 34, 36, and 41mm) allowing for a perfect fit on any wrist size.
As for dial colors, the collection features classic colors in a sunray pattern such as black, bright blue, silver with gold markers, and pink.
The ladies’ Rolex Oyster Perpetual’s clean and simple dial, along with the iconic Oyster case, offers versatility and a sense of sophistication that suits all occasions.
2. Ladies Rolex Datejust Midsize 31: Best for everyday wear | starts at $3,870 (as of May 2024)
The Rolex Datejust was first introduced in 1945 and was the world’s first self-winding chronometer wristwatch with a date display window. The Datejust quickly became a symbol of luxury and elegance, and it has since been one of Rolex’s most popular and iconic collections.
The original Ladies Datejust was sized at 26mm, but Rolex has since adjusted it for modern tastes – the smallest size available in the current collection is now 28mm, followed by the midsize 31mm. The Rolex Ladies Datejust Midsize is a sweet spot if you’d like a feminine watch with a little more wrist presence.
The Ladies Rolex Datejust Midsize 31 collection features a number of impressive features, including a precise automatic movement, a date display window, and a waterproof case. The watch also boasts a wide range of design options, allowing women to choose the metal, dial color, bracelet, and movement for their needs. That’s what makes the Ladies Rolex Datejust Midsize 31 the best for every day wear.
Its available in a range of metals including stainless steel, 18k gold, and Rolesor, which is a combination of steel and gold (yellow, white and Everose).
The collection also features classic dial colors such as black, silver, and white, as well as more vibrant options such as pink, silver, champagne, blue, chocolate, aubergine, and olive green. For a sportier, more casual look, one may opt for the Oyster bracelet; while Jubilee bracelets lend a dressier look and feel.
3. Ladies Rolex President Datejust: Best for formal occasions | starts at $8,140 (as of May 2024)
The Rolex “Presidential” bracelet was introduced in 1956 along with the iconic Day-Date model. The semi-circular, three-piece link bracelet was exclusively designed for the Day-Date, but somewhere along the way, Rolex deemed it fit to pair the elegant bracelet with precious metal versions of the Rolex Lady-Datejust. Just like the Day-Date, only Lady Datejust models in 18k gold (yellow, white, and Everose) and platinum are ever seen with the Presidential bracelet, giving these watches an air of exclusivity.
The Ladies Rolex President Datejust collection features several impressive features, including a precise automatic movement, a date display window, and a waterproof case. While limited to precious metals, the watch still boasts a range of dial options, from sunburst dials in silver, champagne, black, green, and blue; to more ornate styles like mother of pearl, pyramid, Jubilee, honeycomb, and myriad diamond dials.
The Ladies Rolex President Datejust collection is available in a range of sizes, including 26mm, 28mm, and 31mm, making it a versatile option that can be worn by women with a variety of wrist sizes.
Upping the ante on luxury, dials can also be adorned with exotic materials that feature precious stones, or rare minerals like meteorite.
4. Rolex Datejust 36: Best for unisex design | starts at $3,680 (as of May 2024)
The first Rolex Datejust was introduced in 1945 in a 36mm Oyster case. The range has since been introduced in various sizes (26 – 31mm for ladies, 36 to 41mm for men) but recent trends have seen more and more women wearing traditional men’s sizes. It lends an oversized look that really makes a style statement.
The Rolex Datejust 36 features a range of impressive features that make it a reliable and versatile timepiece. It has a waterproof case, a self-winding automatic movement, and a date display window at the 3 o’clock position. The watch also features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, ensuring that it stays looking new for years to come.
What makes the Rolex Datejust 36 the best unisex watch is its classic design and versatility. Rolex’s hallmark features can be found in this timepiece: the Oyster case, the Oyster and Jubilee bracelets, as well as the date window with Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock. The watch’s clean, classic design, and reliable performance make it a favorite among those who value quality and craftsmanship.
It is also available in a range of metals, including stainless steel, 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold, two-tone steel and gold. The dial colors available include classic options such as black, white, blue, and silver, as well as more luxurious options such as champagne, mother-of-pearl, tapestry, and Jubilee. Beginning in 2020, Rolex has also used laser etching techniques for its dial patterns, and we’ve seen refreshing styles like the Palm Motif and Fluted Dial lend a contemporary feel to the classic timepiece.
Some of the movements available include the latest generation Calibre 3235, which has a power reserve of up to 70 hours; and the Calibre 3135, which has been in use since 1988 and is known for its reliability.
5. Ladies Rolex Yacht-Master Midsize: Best for performance | starts at $6,785 (as of May 2024)
The Rolex Yacht-Master was first introduced in 1992 and quickly became known as one of the most iconic and sought-after luxury sports watches in the world. The Yacht-Master was designed specifically for those who love the water and boating, and it features a range of functions and features that make it ideal for sailing and other water activities.
The Rolex Yacht-Master Midsize features a range of impressive features that make it the best watch for performance. It has a waterproof case, a self-winding automatic movement, and a unidirectional rotating bezel with a graduated scale for calculating elapsed time.
What makes the Rolex Yacht-Master Midsize the best watch for performance is its durable build and rotating bezel. It is designed to withstand the rigors of boating and water activities, and it is capable of withstanding depths of up to 100 meters. The watch’s unidirectional rotating bezel and luminous hands and markers also make it easy to read in low-light conditions.
The Rolex Yacht-Master Midsize is available in a range of metals, including stainless steel and platinum (Rolesium), 18k yellow gold, and two-tone steel and gold (Rolesor). The dial colors available include classic options such as white, blue, and slate grey, as well as more luxurious options such as mother-of-pearl, champagne, and platinum (as seen in the Rolesium model).
Some of the movements available include the Calibre 2236, which has a power reserve of up to 55 hours, and the Calibre 2235.
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6. Rolex Pearlmaster: Best Jewelry Watch | starts at $11,440 (as of May 2024)
The Rolex Pearlmaster is often viewed as a canvas for Rolex’s craftsmanship in gemology. Each Pearlmaster model is carefully crafted using only precious metals – yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold, and platinum – serving as a backdrop for the most exquisite gems.
Rolex Pearlmaster watches are embedded with gemstones that are selected using the most stringent criteria. Rolex has its own in-house gemological laboratory where experts examine and handpick each diamond or precious stone for its cut, clarity, and color. The stones are then hand-set by skilled artisans to ensure they meet the brand’s meticulous standards for perfection.
The collection boasts an array of dial options that enhance the Pearlmaster’s luxurious aesthetic. From classic simplicity to intricate patterns, some dials are adorned with diamonds set in a floral motif or arranged in hour markers, providing a striking contrast against the mother-of-pearl, meteorite, sodalite, or sunburst finishes.
The Pearlmaster’s bezel comes in various styles, ranging from a simple polished finish to a more lavish, diamond-set bezel. The most extravagant models feature a Rainbow bezel, which includes a gradation of sapphires in rainbow hues, encapsulating Rolex’s penchant for creating timepieces that are truly works of art.
As for the movement, the Pearlmaster is equipped with calibers that maintain Rolex’s promise of precision. These self-winding mechanical movements are all COSC-certified chronometers, ensuring that the watches keep time with Rolex’s promised accuracy after casing.
Rolex’s attention to detail extends to the Pearlmaster bracelet. The bracelet not only exhibits a refined aesthetic with its rounded five-piece links but is also constructed for comfort. The concealed Crownclasp provides a seamless and secure closure, allowing the Pearlmaster to drape elegantly around the wrist. It’s this combination of function and form that sets the Pearlmaster apart as a premier jewelry watch.
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7. Rolex Cellini Classic: Best Value Ladies Vintage Watch | starts at $3,095 (as of May 2024)
For women who appreciate the finesse of vintage timepieces, the Rolex Cellini Classic offers a graceful nod to the past with its timeless design. The Cellini line, named after the renowned Italian sculptor and goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini, showcases Rolex’s commitment to traditional watchmaking with a contemporary touch.
The Rolex Cellini Classic is often hailed for its understated elegance and simplicity. These watches typically feature a slim and refined profile, with clean lines and often a manual wind movement that pays homage to the art of traditional watchmaking. With a smaller case size that sits delicately on the wrist, these timepieces offer a subtle yet sophisticated presence. Their value proposition lies not just in the Rolex name but also in their ability to retain a classic aesthetic that never goes out of style, making them a fantastic choice for vintage enthusiasts looking for a piece with history and character.
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8. Rolex Datejust 26 Steel Gold: Best Luxury Ladies Vintage Watch | starts at $3,095 (as of May 2024)
The Rolex Datejust 26 Steel Gold is a harmonious blend of durability and luxury. The Rolex Datejust has been a cornerstone of the brand’s catalog since 1945, and the 26mm ladies’ version embodies the same enduring appeal in a size that’s been a traditional choice for women.
Combining stainless steel with 18k yellow gold, these watches capture the essence of Rolex’s commitment to producing pieces that are as robust as they are precious. The Datejust’s iconic design features such as the date window with a Cyclops lens and the instantly recognizable Jubilee or Oyster bracelet are all present, offering a luxurious vintage watch that remains highly functional for everyday wear. Women who choose the Datejust 26 Steel Gold are not only investing in a piece of Rolex heritage but also in a watch that retains its value and elegance over time.
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9. Rolex Cellini Cellissima: Best Cocktail Watch | starts at $10,665 (as of May 2024)
When it comes to choosing a watch that is as much a piece of fine jewelry as it is a timekeeper, the Rolex Cellini Cellissima is a stunning choice. This range within the Cellini collection is designed for evening wear and special occasions, where its sparkling presence stands out in a crowd.
These exquisite watches are often crafted in 18ct white or yellow gold and can be found adorned with diamonds, adding to their sumptuous appeal. The Cellissima watches are characterized by their unique bracelet designs and delicate gem setting, combining traditional Rolex precision with the allure of fine jewelry. The quartz movement within these watches is a nod to modernity and ensures precise timekeeping without the need for winding.
The Cellissima is not a watch that’s worn every day; rather, it’s reserved for the most special of events. It’s a timepiece that complements the finest of outfits, designed to act as a statement piece that celebrates Rolex’s artistry in watchmaking and gem setting. With their exceptional craftsmanship and elegant design, these watches are perfect for the woman who desires a luxurious accessory for those moments that call for a sophisticated statement.
3 Best Rolex Men’s Watches for Women
Of course, women can wear any Rolex model with equal aplomb. Here are our top picks for Rolex men’s watches that women can wear:
1. Rolex Day-Date 36 | starts at $15,320 (as of May 2024)
The classic and timeless design of the Day-Date watch maintains a wristwatch that’s both elegant and understated for who want an esteemed watch that’s not necessarily flashy. With its classic Oyster case, fluted bezel, and three-piece Presidential bracelet, it makes a statement without overpowering the wrist.
The day and date function also make it easier to track your appointments and events, while maintaining a simple elegance on your wrist that comes in enough options in metals and colors to really personalize the piece to your fashion preferences. The Rolex Day-Date comes exclusively in precious metals (18k yellow, white, and Everose gold, plus platinum) but dial options are aplenty.
Over the years, many prominent women have been spotted in a Rolex Day-Date 36 including Jennifer Aniston, Victoria Beckham, Sofia Vergara, and Ellen DeGeneres.
2. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona | starts at $18,130 (as of May 2024)
The Rolex Daytona is the world’s most famous racing watch, with its iconic case silhouette and three-chronograph registers. You’ve got the excellent combination of a sporty, yet elegant design with the chronograph functions and tachymeter scale, complemented by a wide range of materials and colors. The Rolex Daytona may have been designed for men, but its wide range has allowed women to choose a combination that really suits their style.
The impressive features make it a highly functional watch with a fully-integrated, self-winding chronograph movement (Calibre 4130), water resistance of up to 100m, robust metal construction, and in some models, a scratch proof Ceramic bezel and durable Oysteflex bracelet. Its excellent build makes it a great everyday watch that can travel from work, to dinner, to the beach with ease.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona has already been endorsed for women by several famous icons like Victoria Beckham, Sofia Vergara, Elle Macpherson, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
3. Rolex Yacht-Master 37 | starts at $23,080 (as of May 2024)
As another typically men’s watch with a sporty, yet elegant design, the 37mm Yacht-master suits women’s wrists just as well as men’s even if it’s not marketed that way. The rotating bezel with raised numerals sets off the sunray finish dial wonderfully. You can choose a model that suits your style perfectly with plenty of options when it comes to case materials, bracelets, and dial colors.
This watch is designed for precision timekeeping on the water featuring a self-winding automatic movement and a water resistance of up to 100 meters (330 feet). The impressive power reserve of 48 hours easily fits into most lifestyles.
The design of this watch keeps in mind both comfort and durability. There is a choice between the Oyster bracelet that is made of Rolex’s 904L steel or steel and gold, or the flexible Oysterflex bracelet which ensures comfortable wear with its fins and titanium-nickel alloy. The Easylink extension system ensures perfect fit and adjustment over wet suits.
You can easily see how well this watch suits women too with the likes of Ellen Degeneres and Wimbledon star Justin Henin as fans.
Best Rolex Watches for Women: Final Thoughts
Rolex has proven time and time again to be the top choice of women with exacting tastes.
The 5 best Rolex watches for women highlighted in this article offer a range of options from classic and elegant to sporty and functional. With their attention to detail and use of only the finest materials, these watches are sure to make any woman feel confident and empowered.
Whether you choose the iconic Datejust, the adventurous Yacht-Master, or the luxurious President Datejust, a Rolex watch is a timeless investment that will last a lifetime. Find your perfect Rolex in the massive inventory at SwissWatchExpo today.
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