Ahh, Rolex is the ticker that every person wants to have on their wrist. When you think of this luxurious timepiece, personalities like James Bond come to mind. In 1962, Sean Connery had the Rolex Submariner on his arm tracking down the mean Dr. No. Okay, the model 6358 is a bit older in design than the ones you can click through to.
Then we have Timothy Dalton appearing with another later design of the Rolex in the film License to Kill in 1989. You must agree both these timepieces are dazzling, functional, and shouts elegance. Rolex remains one of the best luxury watch brands provided by this Swiss watchmaker.
No wonder many personages believe it is exclusively for a particular class of wearers. But have you ever asked yourself why Rolex watches are expensive? Today we’re going to answer that interesting question on many people’s minds.
Table of Contents
The Logic Behind Why is Rolex Watch So Expensive
#1 Designing a Rolex Watch Costs a Fortune
When it comes to watchmaking, the process is a meticulous and yet challenging profession. A prime example you see is the models of this famous trademark. WHY? The manufacturing team comprises researchers and designers. All the departments have highly skilled professionals. They use the latest innovative equipment and tools.
That’s not all. Rolex always comes up with new approaches in their production line, remaining ahead of the watchmaking game. The best part is they hire experienced trained scientists to work in their labs. So they can analyze everything to ensure they use the best lubricants for their machines.
Furthermore, in their lab, they have a test room to inspect each chronometer from the bracelet, case to the movement. Finally, to add to the manufacturing practice, they research different materials and metals to make the watch stand out above the rest. You must agree these timepieces are more than luxurious and screams status.
So it is expected that the expenses are high when looking at the in-house development and craftsmanship of each design.
#2 The Best Material Used
One thing that gives Rolex the edge above the rest is their classic yet unmatched design. So how do they achieve this? They use 904L high-quality stainless steel in all their plans. How many times have you looked at these watches noticing the shiny look? Yes, it sparkles but is also strong compared to using 316L steel.
So that strength makes it resistant against bumps and scratches is not cheap. Yet, the material they use is corrosion-resistant Superalloy. But they do not reuse the same equipment again to make the metal. Great, that must cost a fortune? Yes, it does, but they can afford it if you look at all the different watches they sell.
So considering the above, it takes a lot of work and skills to manufacture the hard alloy compared to other watchmaking trademarks such as Phillips.
#3 A Wristwatch that Stands the Test of Time
Now, if you look back as to when the first-ever ticker became famous in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, you must agree it has come a long way. Most men had pocket watches to keep time, so imagine wearing one on your writs for the first time. So if you need a timekeeper that can take the punishment, this is one watch that can.
This wearable can keep the time for you, whether you go through a change in altitude, movement, humidity, or temperature. But, do you still not believe us! Then Edmund Hillary is a good example. He went up Mount Everest wearing an Oyster Perpetual, while in 1994, Ed Viesturs wore an Explorer 2. Both these watches survived the climb, and Viesturs still wears his until today.
#4 The Movements Watchmakers Assemble by Hand
As with the majority of companies these days, they use robots to help with assembling products. But when it comes to the Rolex brand, there is a difference. The androids only do light tasks such as filing, sorting, and cataloging. Where the trademark excels is in the assembling of the bracelet to the watch movement. Then, with dedication and hard work, the horologists double-check and test them to ensure the high quality of the product. So we give their team a thumbs up for the hard work put into each watch they make.
#5 You Get a Quality-Drive Watch
Yet, the assembly does not end here as the business is a control freak making sure that everything up to the screws is perfect. Everything is quality controlled, as one should expect from a top brand. They do from the melting down of metal such as gold to the silver in all their wearables. Great, now you may think you heard everything. Nope,
Rolex even has a team of gemologists specializing in testing and incorporating different refined alloys such as diamonds. They have a team of jewelers handpicked to set those precious stones. Compared to other horologists, they excel for their gold watches. Real genuine ones and not only painted.
So it explains why the gold models are the most expensive on their catalog. They use refined 18 karats white and 24 karat gold or yellow gold and rose in the design.
#6 The Wearables are Water-Resistant
Another factor resulting in the high price tag is the water-resistant designs. You can find models that can withstand depths up to 300 meters, such as their dive watches. An excellent example is the Sea-Dweller that conquered the deep. Each of the wearables with water resistance goes through a severe pressure tank test before placing it in water. They also use pressurized water tanks treated by COMEX.
Rolex Was Not Always Expensive
The truth was in the 50s, with the introduction of the vintage Rolex brand, it was not expensive to own one compared to today. WOW, can we not turn back the clock. However, with time and the quality offered, prices skyrocketed. So there you have all the reasons why this specific wearable can cost you an arm and a leg. But they remain beautiful to look at. We can only place them on our wishlist for now as they are unique and worth every cent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The only way to make sure you are not obtaining a fake is to obtain it from a Rolex Retailer authorized to sell the wearable. The retailers have the skills, know-how, and training with specialized onsite equipment to guarantee its authenticity.
When visiting jewelers or buying online, you will see the official plaque displayed in the store or the online shop. Or you can check the list of authorized distributors and service centers here.
The warranty is for five years from the date of buying. The cover excludes:
– Wear-and-tear on non-metal bracelets and straps
– Loss
– Theft
– Damage due to misuse.
Furthermore, it is only guaranteed if it is sold by an official retailer and the warranty card completed by the provider at the time of purchase. You will need to present the guarantee card with your watch when handed in for repairs.
