So, you wanna get into Rolex huh? Cool. But like, which one?! It’s not as simple as just walking in and grabbing the flashiest one (although, if that’s your vibe, no judgement, ya know?). Seriously though, you gotta consider things. Your budget (obvi), your style, and like, what you even *want* it for. Are you trying to impress the boss? Just treat yourself? Flex on Instagram? (Be honest!)
I see a lot of chatter online (yeah, I lurk on r/rolex, sue me) about “entry-level” Rolexes. And that usually means things like the Oyster Perpetual. Honestly? It’s a solid choice. It’s clean, it’s classic, it screams “Rolex” without screaming *too* loud. Think of it as the gateway drug to the Rolex universe. You get that sweet, sweet Oystersteel, that smooth, reliable movement, and you’re IN.
Then there’s the Datejust. A little fancier, maybe. That cyclops date window? Some people love it, some hate it. Personally, I think it gives it a bit of, I dunno, character? It’s a step up from the OP, price-wise, but you’re getting more features, more history, more *bling*.
Now, someone always brings up the Explorer. And yeah, it’s cool. Adventurer vibes, tough as nails, all that. But I dunno, it’s kinda…understated? Like, if you *really* want people to KNOW you’re wearing a Rolex, the Explorer might not be the best bet. Unless you’re actually climbing mountains, then go for it. You’ll look legit.
And then there’s the Air-King. Honestly? I’m a bit on the fence with the Air-King. It’s got that weird, quirky dial. Some people dig it, some think it’s ugly as sin. I guess it depends on your personality. If you’re the type who likes to stand out, maybe it’s your jam.
Now, here’s where things get messy. You *want* a Submariner, right? Everyone does. It’s *the* Rolex. But good luck getting one at retail, LOL. Be prepared to spend some serious time on a waiting list, or bite the bullet and go grey market. Are Submariners good starter Rolexes? Well, yeah, they’re amazing. But are they *realistic* starter Rolexes? That’s a different question.
Here’s my (totally biased and probably wrong) advice: Don’t overthink it too much. Go to a dealer, try some on, see what speaks to you. Don’t get caught up in the hype, the waiting lists, the grey market prices. At the end of the day, it’s *your* watch, *your* money. Pick something that makes you happy. And maybe, just maybe, avoid the ones that everyone else is chasing. You might find something even better, something that’s… you.
