An entry level Rolex is the most accessible model in the brand’s lineup, offering the same craftsmanship, precision, and durability without the steep prices. The cheapest range of Rolex is typically the Oyster Perpetual. While Rolex no longer offers watches under S$5,000, pre-owned options—especially older Oyster Perpetual and Air-King models—can be found in that range.
For under S$10,000, beginner watch buyers can explore affordable Rolex models like the Oyster Perpetual or pre-owned Datejust and Explorer watches. Rolex offers these watches in a variety of sizes and dial colors to suit different tastes and wrist sizes. Read on to discover some of the best entry-level Rolexes that carry prestige, making them ideal for first-time luxury watch owners.
1. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 – Oystersteel, Pistachio Dial ref. 134300-0006
About
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a true icon in the world of luxury watches, representing the very essence of Rolex’s commitment to excellence, precision, and timeless design. This Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 is a men’s watch that’s part of the brand’s core collection. It represents a straightforward approach to watchmaking, focusing on durability, accuracy, and timeless design and is one of six new dial color additions to the OP lineup alongside options like beige and green, bringing a fresh aesthetic to the Oyster Perpetual line. What’s also important to note is it’s an upgrade from the 124300 series, offering a newer and more exciting take on the otherwise plain-looking entry-level Rolex watch.
Features
- Pistachio green dial with Chromalight lume-filled baton-style hands and index hour markers (double at 3 and 9 o’clock)
- 41mm Oystersteel case with 100m water resistance
- Smooth, well-polished domed bezel
- Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal over the dial
- Available in a variety of dial colors and sizes to fit different preferences
Specifications
- Production Year: 2025
- Case Size: 41mm
- Materials: Oystersteel
- Dial – Pistachio green, with Chromalight lume-filled baton-style hands and index hour markers (double at 3,6, and 9 o’clock)
- Bracelet – Oystersteel, Oyster, with a folding Oysterclasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, well-polished, domed, Oystersteel
- Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Rolex Caliber 3230 self-winding mechanical movement
Why You Should Invest?
It offers a combination of modern Rolex engineering and a distinctive dial color that’s not widely available. Its recent release means it benefits from the latest movement technology, while its understated design ensures it remains wearable for decades. Rolex’s reputation for quality, combined with limited dial variations, can contribute to strong long-term value retention.
WatchCharts reveals that as of mid-2025, the retail price of the 134300 sits at S$9,500, while the secondary-market price is S$14,322—a remarkable ~73% premium over MSRP. Market prices in the secondary market often exceed retail prices due to high demand, limited availability, and collector interest.
2. Rolex Submariner Date – 904L Stainless Steel, Black Dial ref. 16610
About
The Submariner Date ref. 16610 is the iconic Rolex watch for men that debuted in 1989 as the successor to the 168000, renowned for its exceptional performance in the sea and marine environments. It retained the classic 40 mm case size but introduced the Caliber 3135 movement, a sapphire crystal over the dial, Super-LumiNova lume (in 1999 over Tritium and LumiNova), and a unidirectional rotatable bezel.
It was produced for over two decades, making it one of the longest-running Submariner references. This longevity allowed Rolex to refine small details over time while keeping the core design consistent. It was discontinued in 2010 and replaced by the 116610LN, which introduced a ceramic bezel and updated case proportions.
Features
- Unidirectional rotatable bezel with an aluminum insert
- Date display at 3 o’clock with a Cyclops lens magnifier over it
- Water resistance up to 300 m
- Oyster bracelet made of 904L stainless steel
- Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal over the dial
Specifications
- Production Year: 1989 to 2010
- Case Size: 40mm
- Materials: 904L stainless steel
- Dial – Black, with a Super-LumiNova lume-filled Mercedes-style hour hand, pencil-style minute hand, and round/triangle/rectangle hour markers
- Bracelet – Oyster, 904L stainless steel, with a clasp with a flip-lock safety mechanism and a diver’s extension link
- Bezel – Unidirectional rotatable, stainless steel, with a coin-edge grip and black aluminum insert with a 60-minute scale with clear white markings and individually graduated first 15 minutes for precise timing
- Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Rolex Caliber 3135 automatic movement with 31 jewels, a 48-hour power reserve and 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
This Rolex Date holds appeal due to its long production run, durable construction, and classic design. Its pre-ceramic bezel gives it a traditional look that some prefer over newer models. Plus, it’s often considered an accessible entry point into Submariner ownership, with prices generally lower than discontinued vintage references.
According to WatchCharts, over the past five years, it has seen a modest increase of +0.9% over the past five years, although this is below the broader Rolex brand average of +14.2% and Submariner collection average of +8.3%.
3. Rolex Explorer 36 – Oystersteel, Black Dial ref. 124270-0001
About
The Rolex Explorer 36 has origins tied to mountaineering and exploration. The reference 124270-0001 continues the tradition with proportions that suit a wide range of wrists. It was introduced as part of Rolex’s 2021 updates, marking a return to the classic 36mm size after years of larger cases. The design is straightforward, focusing on clarity and robustness rather than decorative elements.
Features
- Black dial with the signature 3, 6, and 9 Arabic numerals
- 36mm Oystersteel case with water resistance up to 100 meters
- Twinlock winding crown
- Smooth, well-polished, domed bezel
- Available in a variety of bracelet options
Specifications
- Production Year: 2021
- Case Size: 36mm
- Materials: Oystersteel
- Dial – Matte black, with a Chromalight lume-coated Mercedes-style hour hand, pencil-style minute hand, and applied index/Arabic numeral/triangle hour markers
- Bracelet – Oystersteel, Oyster, with a folding Oysterlock safety clasp with an Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, stainless steel
- Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Rolex Caliber 3230, a self-winding mechanical movement
Why You Should Invest?
Its steady demand and restrained design make it a strong choice for those seeking an entry point into Rolex ownership without compromising on quality.
Additionally, WatchBase indicates its price increased from S$9,139 on April 7, 2021, to S$11,312 on March 11, 2025.
4. Rolex Air-King – Oystersteel, Black Dial ref. 126900-0001
About
The Rolex Air-King has origins in the 1950s, created to honor aviation pioneers and the golden age of flight. This modern reference, 126900-0001, continues that legacy with updated proportions, improved movement technology, and enhanced materials. It retains its recognizable dial layout, including the prominent minute scale and green seconds hand.
Features
- Green seconds hand with a luminous tip
- Arabic numeral markers every five minutes
- Black dial with bold Arabic numerals at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock
- Water resistance to 100 m (330 ft)
- Oyster bracelet
Specifications
- Production Year: 2022
- Case Size: 40mm
- Materials: Oystersteel
- Dial – Black, with a Chromalight lume-coated Mercedes-style hour hand, pencil-style minute hand, a green seconds hand with a luminous tip, and triangle/applied Arabic numeral hour markers and Arabic numeral markers every five minutes at 1,2,4,5,7,8,10, and 11 o’clock
- Bracelet – Oyster, Oystersteel, with a folding Oysterlock safety clasp with an Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, Oystersteel
- Function: Hours, minutes, and seconds
- Mechanism: Caliber 3230 self-winding mechanical movement that uses Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer certification and has 31 jewels, a 70-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
As an entry point into Rolex’s professional models, it provides strong value retention and appeal to both collectors and first-time buyers. As per WatchBase, its price increased from S$10,496 on March 30, 2022, to S$11,696 on March 11, 2025.
5. Rolex Milgauss – 904L Stainless Steel, Black Dial ref. 116400GV-0001
About
The Rolex Milgauss was originally introduced in 1956 for scientists and engineers working in environments with strong magnetic fields. The 116400GV-0001 is a modern iteration that keeps the anti-magnetic capability while updating the design with contemporary materials and finishing. Its “GV” designation refers to Glace Verte, the green-tinted sapphire crystal that is unique to the Milgauss line.
Features
- Orange lightning bolt-shaped seconds hand
- Orange indices at 3,6, and 9 o’clock
- Scratch-resistant green sapphire crystal
- Orange minute track
- Smooth, well-polished, domed bezel
Specifications
- Production Year: 2007-2023
- Case Size: 40mm
- Materials: 904L stainless steel
- Dial – Black, with Chromalight lume-filled baton-style hands, an orange lightning bolt-shaped seconds hand, index hour markers (orange indexes at 3,6, and 9 o’clock), and an orange minute track with Arabic numeral markers every five minutes
- Bracelet – Oyster, 904L stainless steel, with an Oysterclasp with the Easylink extension system, allowing quick adjustment of 5mm for comfort
- Bezel – Smooth, fixed, polished, 904L stainless steel
- Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Rolex Caliber 3131 self-winding movement with 31 jewels, a 48-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
The discontinuation of the Milgauss line has increased its demand. Its distinctive green sapphire crystal, anti-magnetic engineering, and unique dial accents make it stand out from other Rolex models. Collectors value it for its niche history, technical specifications, and limited availability in the current market.
WatchBase reveals its price increased from S$10,871 on February 1, 2015, to S$13,945 on January 13, 2023.
6. Rolex Datejust 31 – Oystersteel, Silver Dial ref. 278240-0005
About
The Datejust 31 ref. 278240-0005 is a luxury women’s watch that belongs to Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Datejust collection. It caters to those preferring a smaller case size without sacrificing performance or quality. Its neutral silver dial and polished steel surfaces give it a clean, understated appearance while its three-piece bracelet gives a sporty, more relaxed vibe for the modern, everyday woman who prefers a less flashy piece.
Features
- Silver dial with a sunray finish
- 31mm Oystersteel case
- Smooth domed bezel
- Oyster bracelet with Oysterclasp
- Date display at 3 o’clock with a Cyclops magnifier lens
Specifications
- Production Year: 2020
- Case Size: 31mm
- Materials: Oystersteel
- Dial – Silver with a sunray finish and Chromalight lume-filled baton-style hands and index hour markers
- Bracelet – Oyster, Oystersteel, with a folding Oysterclasp with an Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, Oystersteel
- Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Rolex Caliber 2236 self-winding mechanical movement with 31 jewels, a 55-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
According to WatchBase, its price increased from S$9,447 on September 2, 2020, to S$11,021 on March 11, 2025.
7. Rolex Ladies’ Yacht-Master 29 – Rolesium, Silver Dial ref. 169622
About
The Rolex Ladies’ Yacht-Master 29 is a discontinued women’s luxury watch that’s part of the Yacht-Master collection, a line designed for nautical use but adapted for daily wear. Introduced as a smaller, more elegant alternative to the larger Yacht-Master models, it maintains the same professional-grade build quality. Its Rolesium construction — stainless steel case and bracelet with a platinum bezel — gives it a distinctive look and robust corrosion resistance.
Features
- Unidirectional platinum bezel with raised numerals for timing purposes
- 29mm 904L stainless steel case
- Red seconds hand with a luminous tip
- Water resistance to 100 meters
- Date display at 3 o’clock with a Cyclops magnifier lens
Specifications
- Production Year: 2000
- Case Size: 29mm
- Materials: 904L stainless steel
- Dial – Silver, with a Super-LumiNova lume-filled Mercedes-style hour hand, pencil-style minute hand, a red seconds hand with a luminous tip, and round/rectangle/triangle hour markers
- Bracelet – 904L stainless steel, Oyster, with an Oysterlock clasp
- Bezel – Unidirectional rotatable, solid 950 platinum, with polished and raised numerals and graduations, and a background with a sandblasted texture for contrast.
- Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Rolex Caliber 2235 self-winding mechanical movement with 31 jewels, a 48-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency.
Why You Should Invest?
Its discontinued status makes it appealing for both collectors and wearers. The “Rolesium” composition is highly desirable, offering precious metal appeal at a lower price point than full-platinum models.
It combines elegance, rarity, and Rolex prestige into a relatively accessible package.
Depending on when you acquired it, many owners have seen their investment grow by 30–70% over a few years. Its unique size, luxurious materials, and enduring brand appeal make it a compelling pick for those looking to blend passion and investment in one.
Summary
The following table of contents highlights the entry-level Rolex watches above, plus their key features, retail, private market, and pre-owned prices:
| Model | Key Features | Retail Price | Private Market Price | Pre-Owned Price |
| Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 ref. 134300-0006 |
|
S$9,836 | S$14,322 | S$15,100 |
| Rolex Submariner Date ref. 16610 |
|
S$9,900 | S$10,909 | S$11,700 |
| Rolex Explorer 36 ref. 124270-0001 |
|
S$10,700 | S$9,142 | S$8,500 |
| Rolex Air-King ref. 126900-0001 |
|
S$11,000 | S$10,057 | S$8,050 |
| Rolex Milgauss ref. 116400GV-0001 |
|
S$13,050 | S$12,700 | S$11,500 |
| Rolex Datejust 31 ref. 278240-0005 |
|
S$14,100 | S$13,250 | S$12,115 |
| Rolex Ladies’ Yacht-Master 29 ref. 169622 |
|
S$14,800 | S$6,572 | S$4,100 |
Final Word
An entry level Rolex is more than just a watch—it’s a gateway into the world of Swiss luxury, blending excellence, precision, and prestige. If you want a piece that will hold value, each of these rolex models delivers a balance of performance and timeless design. Whether you prefer the Explorer for durability, the Air King for sportiness, or the Oyster Perpetual for understated elegance, there’s a perfect rolex watch to choose from.
Key Takeaways
- Every entry-level Rolex model provides quality at an accessible price tag. They maintain the brand’s core standards in materials, movement accuracy, and design. While they have lower retail prices than flagship models like the President, Sky-Dweller, RLX titanium, and Daytona chronograph, they still use robust stainless steel and certified chronometer movements.
- Popular options cater to a variety of preferences and uses. Common choices include the Oyster Perpetual for simplicity, the Air-King for a sportier look around the wrist, and the Explorer for durability. You can get a timepiece for both casual and formal wear.
- Entry-level Rolex timepieces often hold their value well compared to other luxury brands. This makes them appealing to both first-time buyers and those considering long-term ownership.
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