Browsing: Rolex

Today we take a deep dive into the creation of the Rolex GMT Master and it’s deep roots in aviation history. Sotheby’s is auctioning a Rolex “Pepsi” GMT-Master 1675 once owned by Chuck Yaeger on April 5 2024. What was Chuck Yaeger’s role in the popularity of this watch with pilots worldwide?

The Rolex GMT is the watch most associated with pilots and aviation. Legendary test pilot Chuck Yaeger, the first man to fly faster than the speed of sound, was a Rolex fan since the late 1940’s. There is also strong evidence that Chuck Yaeger had input into the development of the Rolex GMT, which was then popularized by Pan-Am pilots. Since then, the Rolex GMT has been the top choice for pilots world-wide. Check out this article on the history of Rolex GMT and aviation. Sotheby’s is auctioning this 1970’s Rolex GMT (shown below) formerly owned by Chuck Yaeger with…

Rolex has a history of thinking (slightly) outside the box and experimenting with funky bezel shapes. Below are a few rare examples of the “pyramid” bezel. @amsterdamvintagewatchesThe day-date 18018 above was posted by @amsterdamvintagewatches on instagram (who insisted on posting the image UPSIDE DOWN – whcih we corrected here). Featuring factory diamonds on the lugs, the pyramid bezel gives the watch a louche rockstar vibe.The above is a similar day date 18018 offered available for $28,500 with original box. Watch Reporter subscribers get $500 off.Here we have a Roex Day Date Oysterquartz 19038 with burl wood dial, and the pyramid motif on the bracelet, plus…

Rolex began adding hardstones to dials in the 1970’s, as brands like Piaget popularized this trend. In recent years vintage collectors have gravitated towards Rolex models with malachite, tiger eye, and coral dials, sending price soaring. Check out this article by vintage watch Dealer Jasper from Amsterdam VintageWatches to learn everything you need to know about Rolex stone dials. It was unusual for dealers to stock stone-dialed Day-Date’s or Datejust’s but upon request they could order them at additional costs, displayed by this old and rare “Dial code Chart” below  .

Vintage watch dealer ERIC WIND discusses emerging vintage watch market trends – what will be the NEXT Hot Watch – and shows RARE & DESIRABLE AP Royal Oak, Rolex Submariner, Patek Philippe and more.

The late Shah of Iran was a great watch enthusiast with impeccable taste, decades ahead of his time. Consider the fact he was the first customer to own the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in 1972, and the Patek Philippe Nautilus – when NOBODY understood or was buying these watches.  The Shah was also the man responsible for the creation of the Mercedes G Wagon – the “Watch Diller” favorite ride. What would the Shah think of the the long row of G-Wagons parked outside the Miami Beach watch show in January, driven by grey market dealers who paid for those cars by…

Customized watches have gotten a bad rap. Long associated with aftermarket diamond “bustdown” bling, or all black PVD coatings, nothing destroys a watch value more. BUT, we are now entering a new era of ultra-high level “tuners” – led by Artisans de Geneve whose customization can actually INCREASE the value of a Rolex or Patek, and take it to the NEXT LEVEL. ADG brings true bespoke watchmaking and top-level craftsmanship to the table. Check out the video below which explains the investment thesis for Artisans de Geneve and why we will be seeing more of these watches at auctions in the future.