Rolex is the top brand in the secondhand luxury watch market—no other brand matches it when it comes to popularity, resale value, and how easy it is to recognize. If you're considering selling a Rolex, the good news is that it's much easier to sell than most other watches because buyers always look for one. Some Rolex models even sell for more than their original price, though that’s becoming less common.
Here’s a simple guide on how to sell your Rolex in 2025.
Selling a Rolex? Here’s What You Need to Know First
When selling a luxury watch, there are general steps to follow, but with Rolex, there are a few extra things to keep in mind that are specific to the brand.
1. Know Your Rolex’s Model and Age
Before you sell, it’s important to know your Rolex model and how old it is. Here’s how you can find that information:
- Model Number (Reference Number):
The model number is located between the lugs at the 12 o’clock position. To see it, you’ll need to remove the bracelet. If you still have the original box and papers, the model number will be listed there, so you won’t need to take anything apart.
Not sure which model it is? You can post a photo of your watch on Reddit or a watch forum—many watch enthusiasts are happy to help identify it for you.
- Serial Number (Helps Estimate Age):
If your Rolex was made before 2008, the serial number is between the lugs at the 6 o’clock position (you’ll need to remove the bracelet).
For watches made from 2008 onward, the serial number is engraved on the inner rim of the dial, called the “rehaut.”
You can use a Rolex serial number chart to estimate the age, but this only works for models made before around 2010. After that, Rolex began using random 8-character serial numbers that include letters—these can’t be dated as easily, but they do confirm the watch is from 2010 or later.
Should You Share the Serial Number?
Some buyers—especially those interested in vintage models—may ask for the serial number to verify that the watch matches its age and original features.
Some sellers are fine sharing the full serial number, while others choose to hide the last two or three digits (for privacy or security). Either option is acceptable—it's your decision.
2. Gather All Original Items and Paperwork
Because the market is full of fake Rolex watches, having original documents and packaging can really help build trust with buyers. Things like the warranty card, original box, receipts, service records, insurance documents, or any official paperwork will make your watch easier to sell and even increase its value.
If your Rolex was adjusted to fit your wrist, make sure you include any extra bracelet links. If some links are missing, it’s best to be upfront about it. Finding these items (if you still have them) can boost your selling price by 10% to 20%.
Unlike some luxury watch brands, Rolex doesn’t offer authentication services or paperwork from its archives. However, if your watch was serviced at an official Rolex center, those service records are a strong way to prove it’s genuine.
3. Figure Out What Your Rolex Is Worth
Start by finding your watch’s reference number to help identify the exact model. Then, research its value. Rolex is one of the most popular brands in the resale market, so finding price estimates is fairly easy.
While Rolex lists the retail prices (MSRP) on its official site, these don’t always reflect what your watch will sell for. Be sure to check the resale market too. Sites like Chrono24, WatchRecon, and eBay (mainly for sold listings) can give you a better idea of the current market value.
4. Know What to Expect from Different Selling Options
If you sell to a dealer, expect to get about 10% to 35% less than the resale value. It all depends on how fast the watch is likely to sell.
For example, a popular model like a stainless steel Submariner may sell quickly and need less of a discount. But a less sought-after model—like an older Cellini—might take much longer to sell, so that dealers will offer less upfront.
Also, if you decide to sell it yourself on platforms like eBay, keep in mind that fees and shipping costs can eat up around 10% of your sale price, especially on a $7,000 watch.
Can I Sell a Rolex Without Box or Papers?
If you’re trying to sell a Rolex but don’t have the original box or paperwork, don’t worry—it happens more often than you’d think. Many vintage Rolex watches are sold “naked,” meaning without any packaging or documents. While not having the papers may slightly reduce the price you’ll get, it won’t stop you from making a sale.
Should You Service Your Rolex Before Selling?
In most cases, you don’t need to service your Rolex before selling it. Servicing can be expensive, and most buyers prefer to receive the watch in its original condition. If you decide to service it, keep everything as original as possible. Using aftermarket (non-Rolex) parts can hurt the watch's value and ease of sale.
Suppose you're selling to a professional dealer or a trusted reseller. In that case, they’ll usually handle any cleaning, repairs, or maintenance themselves, so you don't need to spend money on servicing it beforehand.
Sell Your Rolex with Confidence to ElegantSwiss
Selling a Rolex may initially seem overwhelming, but it can be a smooth and rewarding process with the right information and preparation. Knowing your watch’s model, gathering any original items, and understanding the current market value are key steps to getting the best return.
ElegantSwiss makes it easy by offering expert evaluations, competitive offers, and a hassle-free selling experience, whether or not you have the original box and papers.
Ready to sell your Rolex? Contact us today and let ElegantSwiss guide you every step of the way.
