Shopping for a pre-owned Rolex starts with choosing the right model. Each collection has its own personality, size and history. Here's a plain-language guide to the most popular Rolex models and how to choose between them.
Quick Answer
The Datejust is the most versatile everyday dress watch. The Day-Date is the precious-metal flagship. The Submariner is the iconic dive watch, the GMT-Master II tracks two time zones, and the Daytona is the chronograph. For a clean, simple Rolex, look at the Oyster Perpetual or Explorer.
Popular Rolex Models at a Glance
| Model | Style | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Datejust | Dress / everyday | Date window with Cyclops lens; fluted or smooth bezels; many dial options; 36mm and 41mm are popular |
| Day-Date ("President") | Luxury dress | Day and date display; made only in precious metals; President bracelet |
| Submariner | Dive / sport | Rotating dive bezel; robust water resistance; an icon of sport watches |
| GMT-Master II | Travel / sport | Second time zone with 24-hour bezel; famous two-color bezels |
| Cosmograph Daytona | Chronograph | Racing heritage; tachymeter bezel; highly sought after |
| Oyster Perpetual | Minimalist | Clean, no-date design in several sizes and dial colors |
| Explorer | Tool / everyday | Simple, legible dial with 3-6-9 numerals |
| Yacht-Master | Sport-luxury | Raised bidirectional bezel; often in precious metals |
Why the Datejust Is So Popular
The Datejust works with a suit or a T-shirt. Classic references such as the two-tone Datejust 16013 remain favorites, and the wide choice of dials, bezels and bracelets makes it easy to find one that feels personal. Many pre-owned Datejusts have been customized with aftermarket diamond dials or bezels, so always ask which parts are original.
Choosing a Size
- 31–34mm: classic smaller sizes, often chosen for smaller wrists.
- 36mm: the timeless Datejust size that fits many wrists.
- 39–41mm: a more modern, larger presence.
Try several sizes on in person; case shape and bracelet change how a watch wears.
Bracelets
- Oyster: sporty three-link bracelet.
- Jubilee: dressier five-link bracelet, classic on the Datejust.
- President: semi-circular three-link bracelet, associated with the Day-Date.
Buying Pre-Owned: What to Ask
- What is the reference number and approximate production period?
- Which parts are original, and which are aftermarket?
- Does it come with box and papers?
- When was it last serviced?
Read the full checklist in Buying a Pre-Owned Rolex in Sacramento.
Ralph's Jewelers is not an authorized Rolex dealer and is not affiliated with Rolex S.A. or Rolex USA. Rolex, Datejust, Day-Date, Submariner, GMT-Master II, Daytona, Oyster Perpetual, Explorer and Yacht-Master are trademarks of Rolex S.A., used here for identification only. All Rolex watches sold by Ralph's Jewelers are authentic, pre-owned timepieces; some contain aftermarket components, which are noted in each item description.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular Rolex model?
The Datejust is one of the most popular Rolex models because it is versatile, available in many sizes and styles, and works for both dress and everyday wear.
What is the difference between the Datejust and the Day-Date?
The Datejust shows the date and comes in steel, two-tone and precious metals. The Day-Date shows both the day and the date and is made only in precious metals.
What size Rolex should I get?
36mm is a classic size that fits many wrists, while 39mm to 41mm offers a larger, modern look. Trying several sizes in person is the best way to choose.
Is Ralph's Jewelers an authorized Rolex dealer?
No. Ralph's Jewelers is not an authorized Rolex dealer and is not affiliated with Rolex. All Rolex watches it sells are authentic, pre-owned timepieces.
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Visit Ralph's Jewelers in Sacramento & Carmichael
Ralph's Jewelers has been Sacramento's jeweler for decades, with one of the largest selections of fine diamond and gold jewelry and fine Swiss timepieces in the Sacramento area, shown in a high-end, luxury showroom atmosphere at two locations: Arden Way in Sacramento and Madison Avenue in Carmichael.
Ralph's Jewelers – Arden (Sacramento)
3416 Arden Way
Sacramento, CA 95825
Phone: (916) 207-4710
Ralph's Jewelers – Madison (Carmichael)
6630 Madison Ave
Carmichael, CA 95608
Phone: (916) 627-5986
Serving Sacramento, Carmichael, Arden-Arcade, Fair Oaks, Citrus Heights, Roseville, Rocklin, Rancho Cordova, Elk Grove, Folsom, Natomas, West Sacramento and Davis. Email info@ralphsjewelers.com · Instagram @RalphsJewelers
