If you appreciate the finer things in life and are always looking for investment opportunities, you’re in the right place.
Rolex watches have long been regarded as some of the best investments you can make, and knowing which models appreciate the most is key to making a wise purchase.
We’ve compiled a list of the seven best custom Rolex models to buy in 2023, including Diamond Set Rolex Sky-Dweller Rose White White Dial 326935 and Custom Diamond Set Rolex Submariner 114060w, Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Steel Blue Dial Custom Micro Diamond Set 116622 and more.
Rolex is a brand that needs no introduction. With a history dating back over a century, it has become a name synonymous with quality, luxury, and prestige. From its classic designs to the latest custom models, Rolex watches are the ultimate statement pieces that exude elegance and sophistication.
In this post, we will highlight the features that make the seven best custom Rolex models for 2023 stand out and their potential for value appreciation over time.
Whether you’re a seasoned watch collector or a first-time buyer, this guide will provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
Let’s dive in!
1. Diamond Set Rolex Sky-Dweller Rose Gold White Dial 326935
The Diamond Set Rolex Sky-Dweller Rose Gold White Dial 326935 is a truly impressive watch and one of Rolex’s most intricate models protected by an astounding 14 patents.
What truly sets the Sky-Dweller apart is its Ring Command bezel, which you can use to control its numerous functions.
The annual calendar only demands manual correction once a year at the end of February, making it incredibly practical.
This Rolex model displays an additional time zone using an unconventional 24-hour disc in the middle of the dial, perfect for frequent travellers, collectors, or anyone who desires a luxurious and highly functional timepiece.
Here are some of its features:
- Annual calendar and dual-time function
- 42mm rose gold case
- in-house calibre 9001
- 72-hour power reserve
- Innovative Ring Command bezel for optimal usability
- Superlative Chronometer certification
Generally, all Sky-Dweller models have appreciated remarkably over the past 20 years. As of May 2022, the ref. 326935 in Everose gold has appreciated by almost 70%, topping the list, hence, making it a sound investment.
Today, a Ref: Sky-Dweller Rose Gold White Dial 326935 is likely to command a price of between £44,724 to £54,995.00, depending on its condition.
2. Custom Diamond Set Rolex Submariner 114060
The Rolex Submariner 114060 is a legendary diving watch that has been a staple of the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s catalogue since it was introduced in 1954.
This timepiece has retained many features from its original version, the Submariner No Date, and remains a popular choice for divers.
The Custom Diamond Set Rolex Submariner 114060 is the same as the Rolex Submariner ref. 114060 in stainless steel but fitted with brilliant round diamonds on the case and bracelet.
This true gem in the world of popular Rolex sports watches is accompanied by a Time4Diamonds presentation box, Time4Diamonds papers, and a 12-month warranty.
Investing in a Submariner 114060 is smart, as it has high-value retention and the potential to appreciate in value over time.
The stainless steel No Date models have significantly appreciated in value in recent years, making them a valuable addition to any watch collection. As of 2023, the standard Rolex Submariner 114060 is priced at around £8,307.62, while the Custom Diamond Set Rolex Submariner 114060w retails at £14,995.00.
This Custom Diamond Set Rolex Submariner 114060w has the following features:
- Classic black dial and bezel with dot indices and “Mercedes” hands
- Water-resistant Oyster case up to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft)
- Bracelet with Oysterlock clasp and Glidelock extension system
- Chronometer-certified in-house calibre
- Automatic-self winding
- 40mm
- Black dial
3. Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Steel Blue Dial Custom Micro Diamond Set 116622
The Rolex Yacht-Master 116622 is the perfect timepiece for skippers, with a history that goes back to the 1950s. Available in various case sizes, this watch is ideal for both men and women.
In terms of material, the Rolex Yacht-Master 116622 is made with stainless steel.
However, the piece on this list has been custom fitted with brilliant round diamonds on the case and bracelet and comes with a Time4Diamonds presentation box, Time4Diamonds papers, and a 12-month warranty.
Unlike the Submariner and Rolex Sea-Dweller, which have unidirectional bezels, this Yacht-Master’s bezel is bidirectional.
Investing in a Rolex Yacht-Master is not only a wise financial decision, but due to its construction’s high-quality materials and exclusive features, it is also a timeless addition to any collection.
Additionally, this watch is likely to appreciate in value over time. Prices have been rising steadily, with the Everose gold ref. 116622 appreciating by 56% between May 2020 and May 2022.
As of May 2023, the regular stainless steel Yacht-Master 116622 is priced at about £11,000 to £13,000, depending on the retailer. But to get your hands on the Custom Micro Diamond Set 116622, plan to invest about £16,000.
This timepiece boasts numerous desirable features, including:
- Automatic-self winding
- 40mm
- In-house calibre with a 48-hour power reserve
- blue dial
- White luminescent hour markers
- Bi-directional rotating bezel
- Diamond-fitted Stainless steel Oyster bracelet.
- Fold clasp
4. DiW Carbon Rolex Daytona "MILITARY GREEN" Custom Watch
The Rolex Daytona is a highly desirable timepiece with a unique and eye-catching design, making it a superb choice for watch collectors and enthusiasts.
Initially developed in 1963 for motorsport, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is an iconic and popular chronograph series that takes its name from the famous racetrack in Daytona Beach, Florida.
The Rolex Daytona on this list is custom-made by DiW. It is a unique and eye-catching timepiece that combines the iconic design of the Rolex Daytona with a custom carbon fibre case and a military green or orange dial.
Generally, almost all Daytonas are a smart investment choice, with the value of some models skyrocketing between 2020 and 2022.
A new Rolex Daytona “MILITARY GREEN” sells for over £50,000. The current open market value of the DiW Carbon Rolex Daytona “MILITARY GREEN” Custom pre-owned Watch currently sit at £22,995.
Here are some of its cool features:
- Water-resistant to 5ATM
- Carbon fibre bezel
- 40mm case diameter
- Chronograph function
- 72-hour power reserve
- Automatic winding
- COSC-certified in-house calibres
- Green/Orange Camo
5. Custom Diamond Set Rolex GMT-MasterII Black Dial Watch 116710LN
The Rolex GMT-Master II Black Dial Watch 116710LN is a watch that has captured the hearts of collectors, watch enthusiasts, and investors alike.
This watch is one of the finest with a GMT function, offering up to three time zones. The watch comes in various designs, with the red and blue bezel being one of the most famous colour combinations.
For this list, we are referring to the custom-made Diamond Set Rolex GMT-Master II Black Dial Watch 116710LN. This eye-catching piece of accessory is an excellent prospect for value appreciation, and popular models such as the Rolex Batman have proven to be good investments.
Rolex has a long-standing reputation for creating highly precise luxury watches, and their in-house calibres come with chronometer certification from COSC.
If you’re looking to add a Rolex GMT-Master II to your collection, it’s worth noting that Rolex prices can vary significantly over time.
In April 2022, a mint-condition copy of the 116710LN was priced at £18,988.32, but one year later, the price dropped to £14,635.90.
Currently, pre-owned timepieces are changing hands for around £13,449.21. The good news is that now is an excellent time to find offers at comparatively lower prices.
To get your hands on the Custom Diamond Set Rolex GMT-Master II Black Dial Watch 116710L, plan to spend about £16,000.00.
Here are some of the cool features of the watch:
- Water-resistant to 10 ATM
- Ceramic bezel
- 40mm case diameter
- In-house calibre 3186, which uses a 48-hour power reserve
- Automatic winding
- COSC-certified in-house calibres
- Diamond-fitted Stainless steel bracelet
- Black dial
It is worth noting that the Rolex GMT-Master was initially designed for airline pilots and was used by Pan Am pilots in the 1950s and 1960s.
Today, it has become one of the most iconic and recognisable watches in the world, and the Custom Diamond Set Rolex GMT-MasterII Black Dial Watch 116710LN takes its luxury and exclusivity to a whole new level.
6. Rolex Datejust 41 Custom Diamond Set Diamond Zebra Dial 116300
The Rolex Datejust 41 Zebra Dial 116300 is a timepiece that combines classic design with modern technology effortlessly.
Its slim lugs, narrower diamond bezel features, and spacious dial create an elegant look that’s hard to match.
The watch’s calibre 3235 is a technological marvel, with its blue, anti-magnetic Parachrom hairspring, Paraflex shock protection, Rolex’s patented Chronergy escapement, and a 70-hour power reserve.
The Datejust 41 is available in stainless steel or a two-tone version. The Zebra Dial 116300 is a stainless steel model with a unique black and white zebra-striped dial that stands out in any collection.
In recent years, the Rolex Datejust 41 has seen a steady increase in value. Depending on the model, prices increased by 18% to 25% between October 2021 and October 2022.
The forecast for this model remains positive, making it a fine investment for anyone looking to add a classic and elegant timepiece to their collection.
The current price for a new Rolex Datejust 41 Zebra Dial 116300 is around £17,995.
Here are the features that make it stand out:
- 41-mm diameter case
- 70-hour power reserve
- Twinlock crown
- Water-resistant to 100 m (10 bar, 328 ft)
- Automatic-self winding
- COSC-certified automatic calibre 3235
- Zebra Dial design
7. Rolex Datejust 41 Steel/Yellow Gold Custom Diamond Set Custom Dial
The Rolex Datejust 41 Steel/Yellow Gold Custom Diamond Set Custom Dial is a timepiece that is sure to turn heads.
Introduced in 2016, this watch is an upgrade from the previous Datejust II model, featuring a slimmer design, more spacious dial, and improved movement with a 70-hour power reserve.
The watch is available in stainless steel or two-tone Rolesor with either yellow gold or rose. Concerning dials, you have several dial options to choose from.
The Rolex on this list is a Datejust 41 in stainless steel with yellow gold that is custom fitted with diamonds on the case and bracelet of the watch. It also features a custom green dial with applied Roman numerals.
Aside from its undeniable aesthetic appeal, investing in the Rolex Datejust 41 is also smart. The Datejust 41 has also experienced a significant price increase, rising by 18% to 25% between October 2021 and October 2022.
This custom fitted with diamonds is sure to remain desirable for years to come.
The uncustomised Rolex Datejust 41 Steel/Yellow Gold costs about £14,000, but this diamond crested Rolex Datejust 41 Steel/Yellow Gold is retailed at about £17,000.
Take a look at some of its exciting features:
- 41mm diameter
- Sapphire crystal with Cyclops lens
- Twinlock crown for water resistance up to 100m (10 bar, 328 ft)
- COSC-certified automatic calibre with a 70-hour power reserve
- Automatic-self winding
- In-house calibre 3135
Why are custom diamond watches so unique?
Custom diamond watches are unique because they are one-of-a-kind timepieces that are specifically designed to meet the individual needs and tastes of the owner.
All of the custom Rolex models featured in this piece are crafted by skilled artisans who use their expertise to create a unique timepiece that reflects the owner’s personal style.
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Custom diamond watches advantages
- A custom diamond watch offers the freedom to create a watch that is tailored to your unique style and preferences.
- Buying an aftermarket diamond piece is much more cost-effective than purchasing a plan watch with equal diamond settings.
- Many people are drawn to luxury timepieces because they are inherently exclusive items, and having one custom-made ensures that no one else will ever own the same watch.
- You can choose any custom engraving to be included on the back of your luxury watch. You can put a name, date, or special note there that adds a personalised final touch, making any gift or purchase even more memorable.
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Custom diamond watches resale value
When it comes to custom diamond watches, resale value should not be the primary concern.
The value of a diamond watch lies in the statement it makes on the wrist and the emotional satisfaction it brings to the wearer.
Nevertheless, for high-end brands like Rolex, a custom diamond watch can be a valuable addition to a collection due to its beauty and craftsmanship.
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How much is a Diamond Rolex
The cost of a diamond Rolex can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the number of diamonds, their quality and carat weight, the type of Rolex watch, and other customisations.
A new diamond Rolex watch can cost anywhere from tens of thousands to well over a hundred thousand dollars.
The price of used diamond Rolex watches also varies greatly depending on their condition, age, and rarity.
Hence, it’s crucial you understand that the value of a diamond Rolex watch is determined primarily by its brand, model, and condition rather than the value of the diamonds themselves.
Nevertheless, buying a Rolex or diamond-encrusted Rolex is an investment that can never go wrong. Almost all Rolex models, including the custom diamond watches for men & women mentioned in this piece, have experienced significant price increases in recent years.
Are you ready to start investing in high-value custom Rolex watches with diamonds?
Check out our collections to find the best deals on preowned Rolex watches.
