Factors affecting your Rolex valuation

There are more elements to consider concerning the valuation you are attempting to produce unless your watch is in new condition, as shown in the baseline example. The following are the key factors that might reduce value:

Watch Condition

Normal wear and tear are to be expected. However, the following variables can significantly affect value:

1. Bracelet - is the bracelet still tight, or has it begun to droop? Is the clasp in good working order?
2. Gouges - there will almost always be superficial scratches, which can be cleaned away, but are there any deeper cuts? If there are any scratches on the glass, it may be necessary to replace it.
3. Ceramic - the ceramic bezel is highly resistant to tarnish, but it is quite costly to replace if it does.
4. Movement – how well is it running? Is it gaining or losing time? When winding the watch, what kind of 'input' do you get from the crown?

The faults above will almost always come with a repair fee, which you should subtract from the baseline price.

Box and Warranty Card (papers)

The impact of the watch not having a box and paperwork on its value is generally around £750, so this is a decent starting point. The value of a new watch would be affected more, whereas the value of an older piece would be affected less. If the watch is less than 5 years old, the balance of the 5-year warranty will typically cover it, but it will be void if there is no warranty card.

Age 

The first depreciation of a watch is highest at the moment of purchase from new, similar to driving a car off the dealer forecourt. Year on year depreciation vs new price will occur. However, the valuation will improve if there has been a price gain since the watch was acquired (as the baseline for the valuation is the current retail price rather than the retail price at the time of purchase). Market forces will ultimately determine how much any given model would depreciate over time. The amount of buyers in the market dictates how much of a discount they would want to get if they bought a used watch instead of a new one.

Looking after your Rolex

Now you are up to speed on how you can find out how much your Rolex is worth. You may be wondering what the best ways to keep it in the best condition possible are. We have listed a few of the most effective ways below:

If your Rolex is older, make sure it is serviced more regularly

Rolex watches are intricate machines that require your attention and servicing to keep them operating well. We recommend bringing your Rolex watch in for repair every two to three years after it has reached the age of ten years - the friction within timepieces wears them down over time. It may be the difference between a fast touch-up and a complete Rolex overhaul with new parts if you wait five years or more after that point.

Keep your watch moving 

It's always preferable to wear your watch rather than leave it sitting. Watches were designed to run, much like a car that performs better when driven. Oils might dry out, and motions can tighten if it sits for too long. If any moisture got in over time, rust would have developed and destroyed the essential components. If you must store your watch, make sure you keep it in a temperature and humidity regulated environment. Hot, dry, cold, and damp conditions can all be detrimental to your watch. Another no-no is direct sunshine.

Be careful and mindful when wearing your Rolex 

Although Rolex watches are built of high-quality stainless steel, gold, and platinum, and most feature scratch-resistant sapphire crystals, but they are not indestructible. Even a slight bump can harm the watch if it is caught at the proper angle at the wrong moment.

Modified Rolexes 

It's hard to believe that dazzling your Rolex with diamonds, one of the world's most desired and precious jewels, may actually depreciate its worth. But, to be honest, customising or altering a Rolex watch is akin to putting lipstick on the Mona Lisa. Sure, she'll look better, but you just altered a perfectly fine (and valuable) artwork for the sake of aesthetic pleasure.

Every part and component of a Rolex watch is purposefully and deliberately placed with meaning. The purist collectors will not buy a watch that has been polished, much less one that has had aftermarket diamonds put, or a bright new face installed.

What are the benefits of customising your Rolex?

There are several aftermarket modification possibilities available nowadays. Some businesses can completely revamp your watch to make it appear like a long-lost vintage treasure, and others will provide you with the transparent case back on your Rolex that you have always desired. PVD coating on your Rolex case and bracelet is available for an ever-cool matte-black appearance. Of course, you have the option of changing the dial to the colour of your choice. When you personalise your Rolex, you'll have a one-of-a-kind or almost one-of-a-kind piece that will attract attention and spark a few conversations.

What are the downsides to customising your Rolex?

While customisation appears to provide limitless options, it actually limits the amount of money that can be made. This is a major turn-off for serious collectors. Yes, we all started watch collecting because we adore the items. However, collecting pieces that are already valuable or will increase in value over time is a significant part of the enjoyment. When you replace authentic Rolex components with aftermarket parts – no matter how well-made they are – you are essentially devaluing the watch.

The option is yours. Indeed, if you know it's only for fun and fashion. However, this isn't the greatest choice if you're seeking to develop a collection with long-term worth and investment potential.