There are watches, and there are diamond Rolex watches. A diamond watch speaks luxury, but a Rolex diamond watch speaks premium luxury.
Rolex watches are the pinnacle of Swiss watch engineering, and when paired with an array of expensive gemstones, we think jewellery doesn't get much better than this.
What better way to decorate your wrist, what better way to make a statement, and what better way to show off your success than a Rolex with a diamond?
The Rolex brand of wristwatches is in a world of its own; they symbolize different things to different people. To some, it symbolises precision and exquisite craftsmanship, to some, overwhelming success, and to others, timeless style. But here's something everyone can agree on: a Rolex is more than a timepiece, it's a statement.
Adding diamonds to this exquisite piece just elevates its aura to the stratosphere. Whether it's gemstones glittering on the bezels or a totally iced-out look, there's a Rolex for every occasion and one for everyone who can afford it.
From the boardroom to the club, a Rolex watch diamond bezel is sure to command attention wherever it is seen.
In modern times, Rolex diamond watches have gone beyond collector's items to what HNI wear when they are up and about. Sportsmen, Hollywood guys, and even those with Arab money. This has caused the demand for these pieces to skyrocket. For the younger generation, Rolex is not just kept for special occasions; they have become a sort of everyday wear.
In today's article, we’ll be looking at the Rolex diamond watch price in the USA as factors that influence these prices.
We’ll also compare men's and women's styles like the Submariner, the Pearl Master, Date Just 31, among others. We’ll answer questions such as the investment potential of these watches, the different types there are, and we'd even take a look at some popular models.
For both the collector and the trend setter, you must be aware of authenticity, pricing factors, and even trends, which will in turn help you select the Rolex diamond watch that is right for you or your needs. Come with us as we explore these iconic timepieces.
Why is the Rolex Diamond Watch a Premium Luxury
There are lots of luxury brand watchmakers, but there's something radically different about the Rolex, and when this Rolex is paired with a diamond, it's an elegant perfection.
Rolex has been the choice of the crème de la crème of society for years; these watches have been inherited by grandchildren and are in great condition, too.
One of the factors that makes Rolex special is the fact that it is iconic; it's always been a hallmark of luxury timepieces. We have seen some of our favourite celebrities and sportsmen putting on one. Even pictures from the 50s and 60s, and pictures of celebs on Time magazine covers have always shown them sporting a Rolex. The iconic image and the fact that the brand is synonymous with success make it all the more attractive, but there's more.
Marketing alone isn't enough to make the rich purchase it year after year; there has to be a catch. Rich people don't just buy stuff because it's out of the reach of the poor (of course, they do), but there's more. In this case, it isn't only the price point, it is the quality of engineering with which this product is built, and of course, the attention to the details, a perfect blend of aesthetics and engineering.
Rolex diamond watches are made from premium materials. The diamonds used are the highest grade, IF and VS grade, with the colour range of D to G. These stones are not randomly selected. They are chosen by expert Rolex gemologists and are an intricate part of the design.
The stone shapes and sizes are all part of the watch design, this is especially for factory-set Rolex with diamonds. This gives a watch that was perfectly designed with each part, including the gemstones, fitting together perfectly.
There are two types of Rolex diamond watches. There's the factory set and aftermarket diamond Rolex.
The factory-set Rolex with diamond comes with every stone fitted from the factory; it is usually elegant, and with every piece in alignment, it comes from the factories in Geneva.
These factory-set roles are a good source of value, and they could even appreciate as time goes on. This is because they haven't been touched by anyone else apart from the factory fitters.
Of course, the aftermarket Rolex with diamonds has its appeal. This is in customizations, where the after-market fitters customize the Rolex watch according to the wants of the buyer. Buyers usually can add personality to their timepieces. They can push the boundaries of the creativity of the factory jewelers.
Of course, one could even add diamonds to a Rolex that didn't initially have diamonds included with them, or any other gemstones.
The disadvantage is the resale value. It doesn't hold its value as it should, and when one plans to sell, it's usually for cheaper. The after-market price value of Rolex diamond watches is usually smaller.
Price Range for Rolex Diamond Watches
Rolex comes in various models, and these models feature different diamond settings; therefore, the prices of these premium watches will be different. We are going to look at the price range of some of these watches, starting with the entry-level to the high-end premium Rolex diamond watches.
1. Low-End Rolex Diamond Watch
The starting price comes in around ($15000 - $30000).
These are typically factory-set diamond watches. The diamond accents here are usually very subtle, basically minimalist diamond accents. Here’s where you get some of the diamond Rolex watches for women. The Oyster Perpetual, the Lady Date Just also came to be found within this range. The latter being a favourite amongst women.
The diamonds could be as subtle as being in the hour markers. This is for women who want elegance and sophistication with a quiet luxury.
2. Mid-Range Rolex Diamond Watches
The price ranges from around ($30,000 - $75,000).
Here, the diamond additions are not so subtle; instead of just on the hour hand, the accents would be on the Rolex watch diamond bezels. These models also come in at a higher price point. You have some popular Rolex diamond watches for women in this category. The Yacht Master 29 is a model that would fall into this category. The price rarely exceeds $50,000 for this model, though. The GMT Master II and the Submariner are Rolex men's diamond watches that are in this category. The after-market prices are usually cheaper, perhaps by like 10% - 20%.
A new Submariner, for example, may set you back by close to $45,000, while the after-market price may be like $30,000 or lower, towards the $25,000 range.
3. High-End Rolex Watch With Diamonds
Here we are looking at de crème de la crème of Rolex diamond watches, the pinnacle of a high-end jewelry category.
Here, the diamond detailing is not subtle in any way. They're conspicuous, extensive, in fact, they could be regarded as showy. The Presidential, Daytona, and Sky Dweller are Rolexes in this category. Not forgetting the Pearlmaster, which is a favorite diamond Rolex for ladies.
Any of these could set one back by at least $75,000 and upwards, or $200,000 or more. Now this is for the factory set. For the after-market watches, though, one could get them for around $50,000.
Factors That Affect Rolex Diamond Watch Prices
1. Watch Model
All models are not made equal; models like the GMT II Ice or the Rainbow Daytona could be found upwards of $400,000, up to a million or more. While some models like the Oyster Perpetual would usually come in cheaper.
2. Market Forces
Such as scarcity or a certain model may drive their prices up.
3. Diamond Accent
The more subtle the diamond accent, the less expensive a watch is, and the more extensive it is, the more expensive the watch is going to be. More subtle equals fewer diamonds and less time for the jewelers to install those pieces, and vice versa, too.
4. Category
So one way to grade a Rolex watch with diamonds is by the point at which the gemstones were installed. If they are installed in the factory, they are called factory set pieces, and they are usually more expensive. Well, people trust the factory workers more than those who do the after-sales job. They tend to retain their value in the long run and could even appreciate it given the right conditions.
Here, the diamonds are sourced by the experts, and the design process from start to finish undergoes rigorous testing and evaluation to reach the high standards that the Rolex brand has set for itself.
Aftermarket, on the other hand, is a different kettle of fish. Here, the diamonds are installed by trained jewelers, maybe at jewelry stores, but usually they are not done from the factory. Also, the skill level, expertise, and quality control are nothing close to what is obtainable in a Rolex factory.
However, a lot of personality and customizations can happen. But it is also always cheaper than the factory set.
5. Location
Shipping costs, import duties, and taxes are all factors that could affect the prices of your Rolex when purchasing. There could also be other rules and regulations, as it involves importing and owning luxury goods in your state, depending on where you live in the U.S.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing A Diamond Rolex Watch
Rolex watches with Diamonds could set you back a fortune when purchasing, yet they could be timeless treasures and great storage of value if purchased properly.
One should be careful to make sure important steps are taken when purchasing these. There are scammers out there, and there are also actions or inactions that you can take that would invalidate your warranty or insurance in the event that you need it.
Some factors to look at when you purchase your Rolex with Diamonds include
- Origin of the diamond
- Reputation of the seller
- Proof of authenticity, such as certificates, serial numbers, and proof of warranty, is to help evidence when you need it, that is, for factory settings.
It is important that you do your market research, ask questions, especially from watch experts, and seek their opinions so you can rest assured that you are purchasing an authentic Rolex. If you are not familiar with the piece, it's easy to buy a knock-off at the price of the original.
Where To Buy Rolex Diamond Watches In USA
- Authorized Dealers such as Rolex boutiques,
- Secondary markets such as Watch Box, Chrono 24
- Custom Jewellers such as TraxNYC, Icebox
How To Care for Your Rolex
Every mechanical or electronic appliance needs maintenance, and the Rolex is no different. Proper maintenance of your time will ensure that it looks better for longer and lasts longer, too.
Rolex recommends that the watch be visited by a professional for proper maintenance every 3-5 years. This is to help maintain precision, and warranty. For factory set pieces, there are recommended centers and jewelers for this. And for the aftermarket Rolexes, there are jewelers who deal with their maintenance. The retail shop could also recommend where and who to help with the regular maintenance.
Proper storage is very important. Store your diamond Rolex in a padded box, which is always provided when you purchase the watch. This will protect the watch from scratching.
Clean it every once in a while with a soft microfibre cloth and warm, mild, soapy water. Don't clean with harsh chemicals, as they could damage the materials (both metal and diamond) that were used to make the watch.
Luxury Alternatives From Kloira
At Kloira, we believe in making luxury a bit more affordable and accessible. We also understand that not everyone will be able to afford a Rolex diamond watch, so we offer alternatives.
Certain people don't want diamonds due to the ethical questions it could raise, and some who want them can't afford it.
Another gemstone exists which is identical to diamond when looked at with the naked eye, it is called Mossnite after its discoverer.
At Kloira, we offer an incredible collection of iced-out watches, both subtly iced and extensive. With the highest grade of moissanite available and all at a fraction of the price of diamond watches.
Not only are these watches stunning, but they offer as much brilliance and even more fire than diamonds. One can't tell the difference between a Moissanite Iced watch and a diamond iced watch except on closer inspection by a trained eye. The price range is between $1000 - $5000. Of course, these are after-market diamonds.
Conclusion
Rolex diamond watches are not just jewelry pieces, they are a statement, a statement of style, class, and elegance.
They could also be an investment; therefore, it is important to have your basics covered before making any purchases. Knowledge of the watch and the market, prices, trends, and laws is important to know. If all these are done right, you'll be able to enjoy your Rolex diamond watch for a long time.
FAQ
What's the price range for a Rolex diamond watch in the US
The price for a Rolex watch with diamonds ranges from around $13,000 to over $1,000,000 for the very exclusive pieces. Generally, though, between 13,000 - $200,000 will get you something good. The model type, the quality of materials used, the diamond accents, and whether it is factory set or after-market can all influence the price of the watch.
What differentiates Aftermarket from factory settings?
Factory settings are Rolex watches that have their diamond accents installed by the Rolex factory in Geneva. The stones’ sizes, colors, clarity, and cut are identical; the positioning also happens in perfect symmetry.
This ensures precision and authenticity, therefore keeping it's value for longer and appreciating in value as time goes on.
The aftermarket settings don't come with the same quality. The jewellery is installed outside of the factory by third-party jewelers.
Are there differences between Rolex diamond watches for women and for men?
Examples of Rolex diamond watches for ladies would include; Datejust 31, Pearlmaster, Lady-Datejust, and Yacht-Master 29.
Rolex diamonds for men would include: GMT Master, DateJust 41, and Daydate.
The models popular amongst men come with full pave options and bigger bezels. For the diamond Rolex popular among females, the bezels are smaller, and the watches appear more delicate and refined. Also, more attention is paid to the detailing and design of the bracelets.
Can I add diamonds to my watch after purchase?
Not only can you add diamonds, you can also add other gemstones if you want. Essentially, you can customize your Rolex watch as you deem fit. There are jewellers and stores that offer these services. This is called after-market settings.
The only challenge here is that any modifications could drop the resale value of your watch and could also void the warranty. But you get to infuse your personality into your Rolex.
Is Mossanite a good alternative to Diamonds?
Of course, they are; they offer as much shine, as much clarity, and even better fire than diamonds, all at a fraction of the cost. They are also very durable and can be used every day.
Diamond and Mossanite are identical to the naked eye; therefore, you can get the diamond look without the diamond budget. They are also an ethical alternative, since they are lab-made.
Are Rolex diamond watches good investments
Generally, jewellery is not considered an investment vehicle. However Rolex diamond watches can hold their value and even increase it over a period of time. Especially if that model becomes scarce or is discontinued. This is for the factory set models, though; the after-market variants are not a good storage of value. Their resale value tends to drop as time goes on.
