Top Rolex Watches for 2020

Getting a Rolex for yourself, or someone you love, is always special — whether you’re buying your first ever Rolex or adding to a growing collection. At SwissWatchExpo, we always advise customers to choose the Rolex that best suits their individual needs. However, it also pays to know what models are flying off the shelves and why.

So here’s the annual list of our 10 most popular Rolex styles, according to you, our clients and readers. From dress watches to purpose-built tool watches, you had your eyes on the most iconic and timeless.

The versatile ‘Rolesor’ blend of 904L stainless steel with 18k yellow or rose gold are constructed with the finest alloys the world has to offer, making these not just statement pieces, but reliable everyday companions as well.

The contemporary Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39, introduced in 2015, combines form and function in a handsome package. Built tough for everyday wear, the ref 114300 features a 39mm Oyster case and a flat-link Oyster bracelet that creates a secure hold. The simple, time-only design, combined with versatile color options such as blue, rhodium, and red grape, make for a sportily elegant watch.

The inaugural Rolex Explorer II was launched in 1971, and was aimed at speleologists and cave explorers, who could lose their sense of time while working in the dark.

To mark its 40th year, Rolex released the newer variation of their Explorer II. Similar to the inaugural “Freccione” or “big arrow” model, it featured a striking orange 24-hour hand, as well as a fixed 24-hour bezel.

While holding on to aspects that made the Explorer II an icon, the ref 216570 was equipped with modern luxuries such as a 904L stainless steel finish, a robust 42mm case, and a calibre 3187 movement. All these make for a bold and modern tool watch that’s perfect for daily wear and leisure time alike.

The Rolex Submariner is sought after for its classic looks and tool watch capabilities. For those who seek these qualities, plus an elevated look, the two-tone Submariner is the perfect choice.

The stainless steel and 18k yellow gold finish, combined with the striking blue bezel, makes a bold statement without being overly flashy. It still has all the qualities that make the Rolex Submariner an excellent diver – an Oyster case, impressive water resistance of up to 300 meters or 1,000 feet, a uni-directional bezel and a self-winding perpetual movement.

Aside from the classic blue dial and bezel models, the two-tone Submariner is also available with the gem embellished Serti dial version. The two-tone Rolex Submariner is ready for adventure whether at sea or on land.

The Rolex Submariner was introduced in 1953, with the vision of creating a robust and capable dive watch that’s also elegant enough for everyday wear.

The 5-digit Rolex Submariner ref 16610 came to market in the 1980’s, bringing together the classic design of vintage Submariners with a water resistance of up to 1,000 feet. This previous generation Submariner offers an older style case with tapered lugs, which is sought after by those who want a slimmer fit.

In 2010, Rolex upgraded the stainless steel Submariner ref 116610 with a modern aesthetic. It featured a Super Case with broader lugs and an overall beefier look, a Maxi Dial with larger hands and markers and a Cerachrom bezel for resistance to scratching and fading.

Both renditions of the stainless steel, 40mm Rolex Submariner are still highly sought after, even more so now with the introduction of the new 2020 Rolex Submariner with a 41mm case.

The iconic Rolex Datejust made a name for itself in 1945, when it became the world’s first watch to feature an automatically changing date. It may be commonplace now, but back then, this was a true game changer.

Aside from its important place in watch history, the Rolex Datejust remains sought after for its timeless design. Since hitting the market, several editions of the Datejust have been released, but the famous 36mm size and two-tone steel and yellow gold finish still reigns supreme on the lists of Rolex fans. Go for an Oyster bracelet for a casual look or choose the Jubilee bracelet for a dressier feel.

No matter where you go — from the office, to a weekend excursion or to a formal gala, an all-steel Rolex Datejust will always be appropriate.

The clean and classic design of the Rolex Datejust shines through with the durable stainless steel finish, paired with a luxurious 18k white gold fluted bezel. The elegant ref 16234 pictured here comes with a five-piece Jubilee bracelet, which gives the watch a dressier look and feel.

Aside from its looks, the Datejust promises water-resistance of up to 100 meters and is powered by a self-winding, chronometer rated movement. A Rolex Datejust offers reliable readings for many years of wear, and perhaps even a lifetime, making it an undisputed favorite among Rolex fans.