Rolex is undoubtedly one of the most popular luxury watch brands. If this is your first venture into watch collecting then it is the right place to start. Rolex is known the world over for its performance and reliability. Being a part of this exclusive club however does not have to be restrictive. There are some entry-level models that provide the same quality craftsmanship and precision that is also present in higher priced Rolex timepieces.
Explorer I
This is an excellent choice for any collection. It was the first watch to reach the summit of Mt. Everest in 1953, which solidified its iconic status. The Explorer I has a reputation for ruggedness and was designed specifically for professional use. Its all steel bracelet was perfect for the harsh weather conditions of the Himalayas expeditions. The mechanism was secured by a Twinlock winding crown along with its patented double waterproof system.
Rolex relaunched the Explorer I in 2010. It is still an Oyster Perpetual though with an entirely new luminescent display. The watch is 39 mm in diameter and 11 mm in thickness. It has an automatic mechanism, steel polished bezel and a scratch resistant sapphire crystal. This is a perfect addition to any collection.
Air King
This Rolex watch line was previously discontinued in 2014 though was revived in 2016. It was introduced in 1945 as a tribute to the British Royal Air Force (RAF) World War II pilots. The timepiece measured 34 mm back then and was its entry-level model. Its relaunch however also repositioned it to be an aviation timepiece. The standard Oyster Perpetual took its place.
It is presently 40 mm in size, with an attractive black dial. The arabic numerals can be seen even in the dark due to its long-lasting luminescent display. This watch also has a scratch resistant sapphire crystal and polished stainless steel bezel. It is a solid timepiece that is securely strapped to your wrist by a steel Oyster bracelet with flat, three-piece links. The Air King is also equipped with an anti-magnetic protection to shield its movement mechanism from magnetic fields.
Oyster Perpetual
There are many Rolex watches to choose from. Even with that in mind however, the allure of the brand’s most standard model is just as enticing. Its classic design features and original roots will certainly have an impact on your watch collection. This timepiece should not be overlooked. Instead, it is one of the first watches you might want to consider incorporating into your collection.
The Oyster Perpetual’s simplicity is a distinct symbol of the Rolex brand. It is a straightforward timepiece that is powered by a calibre 3132 self-winding movement mechanism. This watch has a brushed steel case and Oyster bracelet, locked-in by an Oysterclasp buckle. It has a scratch-resistant sapphire bezel held in place by a steel, polished bezel. The Oyster Perpetual is a good dress watch though is very reliable for everyday use as well.
Rolex Datejust
This is a fine example of an elegant watch. The Rolex Datejust is the archetypical timeless piece that transcends fads and fashion trends. Its traditional design aspects has been easily recognizable throughout the decades despite its introduction over 70 years ago. Iconic in its own right, it was the very first timepiece that had an automatic date changing mechanism. It is still located at the 3 o’clock position.
The Rolex Datejust is perfect for casual as well as formal gatherings. Its dial and bezel can easily be upgraded with diamonds. This makes this watch a very flexible option to start any collection with. It is a powered by a calibre 3235 movement and is twice tested before being made available for sale. The date area of the watch has a Cyclops lens covering it, which is integral to its design.
Milgauss
It was originally developed in 1956 for watches that are exposed to higher than normal magnetic fields. The preciseness and reliability of a regular mechanical watch can be compromised by magnetic fields measuring 50 to 100 gauss. There are many scientists who are commonly subjected to working environments well beyond this range. The Milgauss was Rolex’s answer to this dilemma. It got its name from mille which is one thousand in French and gauss, the unit of measurement of magnetic flux density.
This watch is a representation of the brand’s technological expertise. The magnetic shield is made of ferromagnetic alloys which encases the movement. A calibre 3131 self-winding mechanism powers this innovative model. It has a distinct scratch-resistant green sapphire crystal with a Twinlock double waterproofness system. The Milgauss is water-resistant up to 330 feet. It is a sporty timepiece that is accompanied by its signature seconds hand appearing as an orange lightning bolt. This is probably a good second watch to add unto your collection, after you get any of the previous ones above.
