Every collector—no matter how big or small their collection—has that mental list of “must-own” Rolex models. Think of it as the watch-lover’s version of a bucket list. The watches on this list aren’t just popular; they’re significant, iconic, and historically important.
Here are five Rolex models you should consider owning at least once in your collecting journey.
1. Rolex Submariner (any reference, honestly)
The Submariner is the closest thing Rolex has to a universal language. You don’t even need to be a watch person to recognize one. It’s clean, versatile, sporty, and timeless.
And whether you choose a vintage reference like the 5513 or the modern 126610LN, one thing stays the same: it’s a watch you’ll never regret buying.
2. Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi”
If the Submariner is the king of diving watches, the Pepsi is the king of travel watches.
The red-and-blue bezel is pure nostalgia, pure aviation heritage, pure Rolex.
Collectors love it because it represents Rolex at its most playful—and because it looks good on literally everyone.
3. Rolex Daytona
The Daytona is less a watch and more a cultural phenomenon.
Paul Newman wore one. Everyone wants one. Rolex barely makes enough.
Owning a Daytona, even for a short time, feels like gaining membership into a very exclusive club.
4. Rolex Day-Date (The “President”)
If you’ve ever wondered what power feels like on the wrist, this is it.
Solid gold. Fluted bezel. Iconic President bracelet. Day-date display.
This is the watch worn by world leaders, CEOs, and anyone who wants to appear as though they have their life figured out. Even if they don’t.
5. Rolex Datejust
The Datejust is the most underrated Rolex, period. Elegant. Reliable. Perfectly sized. Infinite combinations of bezels, dials, and bracelets.
It works with jeans. It works with a suit. It works with anything in between.