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Rolex Observatory

Rolex Stainless Steel Early Oyster Perpetual with Original Dial from 1951
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual / Reference 6085 METAL
Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

1920’s, Art Deco Gruen Quadron, 15 Jewel, beautiful statement timepiece.
By Gruen
Located in Raleigh, NC
leaders in wristwatch design and quality, even working together with Rolex. In 1925, Gruen introduced
Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

1920"s Art Deco Gruen Quadron 15 Jewel, Restored, 14KY Gold Filled
By Gruen
Located in Raleigh, NC
leaders in wristwatch design and quality, even working together with Rolex. In 1925, Gruen introduced the
Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

1942 Lord Elgin Caliber 559 21 Jewels. Christmas 1943
By Elgin
Located in Raleigh, NC
knows what the difference between the two are? Is Lord Elgin analogous of a gold Rolex to an Oyster
Category

Vintage 1940s American Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

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18k Gold Men's Watch Omega Constellation Chronometer
By Omega
Located in Montreal, QC
Omega Constellation chronometer, automatic day-date 18k gold men's watch with leather strap, circa 1960-69. Lug width 19mm, mechanical automatic movement, gold tone original dial, go...
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Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

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18k Gold

Gruen Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style Watch with Original Dial from 1940
By Gruen
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Gruen Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 38mm X Width 26mm MOVEMENT / CA...
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Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Vintage Gucci 3900l ladies wristwatch, Diamond
By Gucci
Located in NEWARK, GB
A stylish Gucci 3900l stainless steel watch. This is a bracelet strap watch with a nice sleek stainless steel bracelet strap with a brick type link. The case is stainless steel wit...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Stainless Steel

Rolex 1940s Yellow Gold Automatic Bubble Back Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Circa 1940s Rolex Bubble Back Wrist Watch, 32 M.M. 3 Piece 14K Yellow Gold case with smooth Bezel, Automatic, Self Winding movement. Restored Black Dial with Radium style filled Rom...
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Vintage 1940s Swiss Aesthetic Movement Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Hamilton Khaki Navy Sub Auto Chronograph H787160
By Hamilton
Located in Braintree, GB
Hamilton Khaki Navy Sub Auto Chronograph men's wristwatch. Reference Nr. H787160 Made in Switzerland. The watch features 30 minute counter at 3 o'clock, Date between 4 and 5, 12 ...
Category

2010s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cartier Tank Must GM Silver Blue Precious
By Cartier
Located in PARIS, FR
Cartier Must model Tank watch in 925/1000 silver, ecru background with blue railway indexes and Roman numerals, quartz movement, blue exotic leather strap, Cartier folding clasp in s...
Category

1990s French Wrist Watches

Materials

Silver, Stainless Steel

Dunhill Rare Royking Lighter, 18k Gold Plating & Enamel Inlay “Royking” lighter
By Dunhill
Located in New York, NY
Dunhill Rare Royking Lighter, 18k Gold Plating & Enamel Inlay “Royking” lighter. Circe 1980 Roy King Rollagas, a Unique RARE example of a ROYKING designed lighter made circa 1970's,...
Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Art Deco Vanity Items

Materials

18k Gold, Enamel

Cartier Tank Louis Rare 1960 Paris 18k Gold Folding Clasp Jaeger LeCoultre K850
By Cartier
Located in PARIS, FR
CARTIER Founded in 1847 For the discerning ones Wear Cartier watch it's integrate the club of famous clients : Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana, the Duchess of Windsor, Princess Grac...
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Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold

Omega Lady's Constellation Quadra Wrist Watch
By Omega
Located in Amman, JO
Omega Constellation Quadra watch made with stainless steel, it features a classy squared bezel with engraved Roman numerals that are housed on a black dial. Luminescent hands and hou...
Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Extremely rare rectangular solid gold watch 1930s
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
Rolex Ref 2356 Circa 1930 Rolex Vintage Rectangular solid gold case with solid wire gold fixed lugs. This attractive watch is manual hand winding. Excellent condition it has been rec...
Category

20th Century European Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold

Rare 1947 Palladium / Diamond Dial 19 Jewel
By Hamilton
Located in Raleigh, NC
Welcome to Vintage Watch Corner, where one can find the most unusual timepieces that are sure to have stories that will never be revealed. Everyone looks at your watch and it represe...
Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond

Rare 1947 Palladium / Diamond Dial 19 Jewel
Rare 1947 Palladium / Diamond Dial 19 Jewel
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W 0.87 in Dm 1.5 in
Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Pocket Watch
By Patek Philippe
Located in Dallas, TX
Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Pocket Watch - Manual winding . 18K Yellow Gold Case, monogrammed. Signed Patek Philippe & Co. ( 45 mm ) with black enamel . Silver dial with Arabic raised...
Category

20th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Rolex Vintage Steel Manual Wind Ref 6424 Wrist Watch
By Rolex
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1954 Rolex Reference 6424 Wrist Watch, 36 M.M. Stainless Steel 3 piece Oyster case. Caliber 1215 Mechanical, Manual wind Nickle Lever movement, Rolex Logo Crown. New Custom Vin...
Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Rolex Steel Oyster with Rare Original Dial from 1946
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster / Reference 4365 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1946 DIMENSIONS: Length 39mm X Diameter 34mm MOVEMENT...
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style Watch with Custom Finished Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference Tank METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 38mm Length X 21mm Widt...
Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Rare and Unusual Rolex Vintage Precision Stainless Steel Ref 4309 Ladies Watch
By Rolex
Located in Dallas, TX
Rare and Unusual Rolex Vintage Precision Stainless Steel Ref 4309 Ladies Watch - Manual winding. Stainless steel ( 16 mm x 23 mm ). Silver dial with applied dot and triangular number...
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20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Recent Sales

Vintage Rolex Prince Observatory Doctor's Stainless Steel Watch, 1930s
By Rolex
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
1930's Vintage Rolex Prince Observatory Steel Doctor's watch with Two Tone Silver and Gray Dial
Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Wrist Watches

2022 Rolex GMT-Master II 126710CHNR
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
Rolex GMT-Master II 126711CHNR GMT-MASTER II OYSTER, 40 MM, OYSTERSTEEL AND EVEROSE GOLD The Rolex
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2010s Wrist Watches

Rolex A 9CT Yellow Gold Keyless Lever Open Face Observatory Quality Pocketwatch
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
Rolex 43mm A 9ct Yellow Gold Keyless Lever Open Face Observatory Quality Pocket Watch C1930s with
Category

Early 20th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Prince Imperial Observatory Quality Bi-Colour Gold Dress Pocket Watch 1930
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
movement is signed “Rolex Observatory, Rolex Hairspring Observatory Quality, Timex 6 positions, 17 Rubies
Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold, 10k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Gold Jump Hour Railway Prince Wristwatch
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
yellow gold pin buckle, a Rolex Observatory Quality Extra Prima manual wind movement with 17 rubies and
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Vintage 1930s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Gold Jump Hour Railway Prince Wristwatch
Rolex Gold Jump Hour Railway Prince Wristwatch
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H 1.66 in W 0.99 in
Ref. 1768 Prince Railway ROLEX
By Rolex
Located in Firenze, IT
Ref. 1768 “Prince Railway” Rolex "Prince Railway", Ref. 1768. Case No. 014106. Made in 1933. Fine
Category

Early 20th Century Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Art Deco, Gold, 1927
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
round 18-Rubies (Jewels) Observatory quality Chronometer movement signed Rolex and Swiss made. Silvered
Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rolex Art Deco, Gold, 1927
Rolex Art Deco, Gold, 1927
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W 0.87 in D 0.28 in L 1.42 in
Rolex Prince Brancard, Art Deco, Silver, 1930
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
Extra Prima Chronometer Observatory movement with 15-Rubies and marked “Timed 6 positions” with Rolex
Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Silver

Rolex Prince Brancard, Art Deco, Silver, 1930
Rolex Prince Brancard, Art Deco, Silver, 1930
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W 0.99 in D 0.32 in L 1.7 in
Rolex Prince Brancard, Art Deco, Silver, 1929
By Rolex
Located in London, GB
A very rare, fine and well-preserved Art Deco vintage wristwatch in silver by Rolex made in 1929
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Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Silver

Rolex Prince Brancard, Art Deco, Silver, 1929
Rolex Prince Brancard, Art Deco, Silver, 1929
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W 0.99 in D 0.32 in L 1.7 in
Rolex Prince Doctor's Model ref# 971 c. 1930s
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
tone silver dial signed "Chester" and Rolex Prince Swiss Made. Rolex Observatory quality Extra Prima 15
Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Royalite Observatory Wristwatch circa 1942
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Rolex stainless steel Oyster Royalite Observatory wristwatch scarce WWII-era model with exceptional
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Royalite Observatory Wristwatch circa 1942
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Rolex stainless steel Oyster Royalite Observatory wristwatch, serial number 227,XXX, circa 1942/43
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Rolex Oyster Everest Observatory Ref# 4647, circa 1940s
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Scarce model vintage Rolex Oyster Everest Observatory model ref 4647 circa 1940’s. Featuring a 30
Category

Vintage 1940s Unknown Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Rolex Silver ref 1490 Branchard Prince, duo dial doctor's watch
By Rolex
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Rolex Sterling Silver ref 1490 Branchard Prince, duo dial doctor's watch. Large flared case 26 X
Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Sterling Silver

Rare 18k Gold Rolex Observatory Prince Imperial Dress Pocket Watch, circa 1950s
By Rolex
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful rare and very fine quality 45mm diameter gold pocket watch is in good working condition and it is running well. It comes with an old box. This watch weighed 43.3 grams...
Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold

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Rolex for sale on 1stDibs

While the rise in popularity of vintage Rolex watches is of no surprise to aficionados, collectors and industry experts, when it comes to contemporary luxury wristwatches, Rolex is also often the first brand that springs to mind. Not only is the company revered for its precision timekeeping and impeccable craftsmanship, but its name was designed to be memorable.

Rolex's enviable worldwide recognition can be credited in part to the genius of company founder Hans Wilsdorf. When the German-born watch dealer and his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, set up their London enterprise, in 1905, they called it Wilsdorf & Davis, according to the traditional formula.

But Wilsdorf was determined to come up with another name that was short, would look good on a watch dial and was easy to say and remember in several languages. In 1908, he trademarked the name Rolex, and by 1920, he had moved the company to Geneva and redubbed it as Montres Rolex S.A.

But the main reasons for the brand’s success are its aforementioned commitment to precision and unflagging pursuit of innovation. In 1926, the company introduced the aptly named Oyster model. With a screw-down crown and case back, both fitted with rubber gaskets, this was the first truly waterproof watch.

Five years later, Rolex upped the ante with the Oyster Perpetual. That model’s patented Perpetual movement contained a rotor mechanism enabling it to self-wind. In another trendsetting move, in 1945, the brand debuted the Datejust, with a date window prominently displayed on the dial.

The company’s two most iconic models are sports watches. Although the Submariner, which debuted in 1953, was developed as a dive watch, its waterproof case, solid construction and good looks made it a favorite of adventurers and urbanites alike, including James Bond, who wore it in classics like Dr. No and Goldfinger. The Daytona, the racing chronograph made famous by Paul Newman, is especially sought after by collectors. Newman’s personal Daytona, which hit the auction block in 2017, sold for $17.8 million.

Find vintage Rolex watches, bracelets and more on 1stDibs.

Finding the Right wrist-watches for You

Antique, new and vintage wristwatches have captured the hearts and minds of all manner of watch collectors as well as the watchmakers themselves — it's time you found your own.

Certain vintage watches for men and iconic watch designs for women are sought after not only because of their graceful proportions or innovative materials but also because of the illustrious histories of the houses that created them, histories that they stylishly embody.

Bvlgari’s legendary Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional wristwatches.

Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.

In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.

Are you shopping for a wristwatch? It’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.

Find antique, new and vintage wristwatches on 1stDibs.

Questions About Rolex
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    While choosing a watch can depend on the wearer's style, there are a few consistent favorites. Some of the top Rolex watches for women include the Rolex Datejust, the Rolex Day-Date, and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The lowest priced Rolex model is the Oyster Perpetual. This watch retails for roughly $5,000. On 1stDibs, you can can find a variety of Rolex watches for sale.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The most expensive Rolex ever sold is the Paul Newman Daytona. This Rolex was purchased for $17.8 million in 2017. On 1stDibs, there are expensive Rolex watches but there is a wide variety available, so it should be easy to find a good fit for your tastes as well as your budget.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    You can buy a Rolex watch through an official Rolex dealer. To meet the demands of customers worldwide, Rolex partners with brick-and-mortar dealers in more than 100 countries. In addition, you can buy Rolex on numerous online platforms, including 1stDibs. To ensure that you receive an authentic Rolex, only buy from a reputable dealer or platform. Find a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The best Rolex really comes down to a matter of preference. From fit and style to functionality, the best Rolex watch is the one that suits you and your needs perfectly. Shop a range of expertly vetted Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Rolex watches are special because they are crafted with 904L stainless steel which ensures durability and longevity. The stainless steel also polishes exquisitely well. You can shop a collection of Rolex timepieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Rolex movement is called ‘oyster perpetual movement’ and refers to the timepiece’s ability to run on the energy of the wearer’s movement instead of having to be wound. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Rolex timepieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Rolex is renowned as a luxury brand that creates exceptionally high-quality products using the best materials and expertly hand-crafted detail. Its timepieces feature landmark design and expertise in the manufacturing process that gives each watch its value. Shop a range of Rolex watches from top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    There are several famous faces who wear the Rolex Explorer — its well-known enthusiasts range from Prince Harry to Tom Hanks. Roger Federer was also named as the face of the Explorer II, a larger version of the Explorer. On 1stDibs, you can find a range of authentic Rolex Explorer watches from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    If you find that your Rolex watch is running slow, it could be time to send it in for servicing. A certified technician will disassemble your watch, regulate and lubricate it. Often a quick cleaning will do the trick! When looking for a qualified technician near you, simply use the ‘Service Center’ resource on Rolex’s website. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, you can wear a Rolex every day. This durable and high-quality timepiece is meant to withstand everyday use and wear. Shop a large collection of authentic Rolex watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Rolex made the Oysterquartz watch starting in the 1970s. Not many were made, with around an estimated 25,000 models making it to market. Shop a range of expertly vetted Rolex watches from top boutiques worldwide on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Rolex joined the quartz movement popular in the 1960s and 1970s. The first Rolex quartz watch was the Date 5100. The company then released the Oysterquartz Datejust and the Oysterquartz Date-Date models. Very few Date 5100s were released, and the Oysterquartz models were only produced for 25 years. Find a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches, including rare Oysterquartz models, from some of the world’s top reputable boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, all Rolex products have a serial number. You can find it engraved along the side closest to the six o’clock mark. If your Rolex is missing a serial number, it is likely not authentic. On 1stDibs you can shop a wide range of expertly vetted Rolex products from some of the best boutiques around the world.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a great entry-level Rolex to purchase. The perpetual refers to the ability of the watch to use the energy of the wearer's wrist motion to run. It is a popular starter Rolex.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Most Rolex watches need 650 turns per day to stay wound. Turns per day (TPD) refers to the number of turns the internal rotor needs to make each day to keep the watch wound and tell time accurately. For the majority of Rolex watches a Perpetual rotor uses your body’s movements to set the TPD, meaning the wearer doesn’t have to worry about winding the watch as long as it’s worn regularly. Shop a collection of expertly vetted vintage and new Rolex watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Rolex does not use the term “waiting list,” instead they refer to it as the allocation of watches. How long you’ll have to wait to get your Rolex depends on the model you want. You may be able to find a Rolex you like in stock at a retail store or you may wait up to three years for certain models. Shop a collection of Rolex watches today from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To clean a Rolex watch, wipe it all over periodically with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. For deeper cleaning, you can wash their metal bracelets and cases with warm water and mild dish or hand soap. Use a leather cleaner product to clean leather straps on Rolex watches. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Rolex watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Rolex made its mark on the world in 1910, and in the 100-plus years since, the Bienne, Switzerland-based brand has focused on making some of the highest quality watches in the world, with trademark chronometric precision. Find authentic vintage and new Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How you adjust a Rolex band depends on the style. Submariner and SeaDweller watches feature Glidelock clasps that allow you to adjust the size 2 mm at a time simply by opening the bracelet and sliding it back and forth. Other watches use an Easylink comfort extension link which allows you to adjust the length by 5 mm without any special tools. Check the user manual of your specific watch for more detailed instructions. You’ll find a large collection of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.