How to sell a Rolex watch in Los Angeles, CA.

Los Angeles Watch Buyer is widely recognized as one of the best ways to sell valuable pre-owned Rolex watches in Southern California.

Thanks to our exclusive network of private Rolex buyers and collectors, we consistently offer our clients more cash than any other watch buyer. Additionally, our payouts surpass what they would typically receive by selling their Rolex watch through an online watch auction. Sell your Rolex with confidence and get the best value with us.

In 2024, this is particularly true for Rolex sports watches, like the Rolex Submariner, GMT-Master, and Daytona. While most Rolex watches can generate a substantial cash offer from Los Angeles watch buyers, the current resale market for Rolex sports watches remains strong, driving up their price.

Here’s a glimpse of a few Rolex watches recently sold by our clients in Los Angeles and Southern California for significant cash amounts. As the best place to sell Rolex watches, we offer expert guidance on the best way to sell a Rolex.

Common FAQs When Selling Your Rolex Watch in Los Angeles

Can I sell a used Rolex?

Absolutely, you can sell your used Rolex with ease. For the best experience and value, consider Los Angeles Watch Buyer, the premier destination for selling Rolex watches in Los Angeles. With our expertise and fair appraisal process, you can confidently sell your timepiece for top cash.

How to sell a Rolex watch near me?

Selling your Rolex for optimal value requires thoughtful consideration. When seeking to sell your Rolex watch locally, Los Angeles Watch Buyer offers convenience and reliability. With our reputable service and convenient location, you can sell your Rolex with ease and receive competitive cash offers nearby.

Choosing Los Angeles Watch Buyer guarantees a seamless process. Our knowledgeable team offers expert guidance and fair appraisals, making us the ideal choice for selling your Rolex watch. Sell with confidence and get the best value for your timepiece with us.

How long does it take to sell my Rolex to you?

Once we appraise your timepiece and you accept our final offer, you’ll receive immediate payment. Sell your Rolex with us and experience hassle-free transactions today.

How does a retail Rolex appraisal and a market appraisal differ?

A retail Rolex appraisal is the approximate retail value of your timepiece. This is what insurance companies use, and not the resale value of your Rolex watch. A market appraisal is the value of your used Rolex on the second-hand (estate) market. This is the appraisal that our Los Angeles watch buyers will use when valuing your Rolex.

Do you have an office in Los Angeles where I can bring my Rolex?

We have an office located in Redondo Beach. If visiting our Redondo Beach office is inconvenient for you, we can arrange to meet at a secure executive office in Los Angeles.

Where can I get competing quotes for my Rolex watch?

We encourage our Los Angeles clients to obtain competing quotes, so that you can be confident that our offer is the best one. Your options include Los Angeles jewelers who buy back fine timepieces, Los Angeles pawn shops, and online watch buyers.

However, when getting an appraisal from an online buyer, be sure to check their reviews and rating with the Better Business Bureau. Keep in mind, some online buyers will offer you a higher price over the phone just to get you in the door. At Los Angeles Watch Buyer we do not employ those tactics. However, prices may need to get adjusted if there is a legitimate defect we find when doing an in-person inspection that was not noticeable from photos sent to us.

Can I get more money by selling my Rolex via an auction?

We consistently secure higher offers for our Los Angeles clients compared to bricks-and-mortar or online auctions. Discover why they choose us over auctioning their timepiece. Explore more about the best place to sell Rolex watches and how to sell a Rolex via Auction.

What is the process of selling my Rolex in Los Angeles?

Once you fill out the contact form, we will email or text you an example of the best photo angles to take. Also, we will ask you if you have the box and papers. Once this information is received, we will call you with an offer. If the offer is to your liking we will set up an appointment for you to bring the watch in for inspection and payment.

How do you determine the value of my Rolex watch?

Pricing is done by one of our seasoned Rolex buying experts. It’s a combination of current wholesale market value based on what other dealers are currently selling Rolexes for and what we can generally expect to sell a Rolex watch for in today’s particular market.

Can I sell my Rolex without original papers or box?

Yes. While box and papers (especially papers) will increase the value of your watch, we can certainly still buy your Rolex without papers.

Which Rolex models do you buy?

Rolex Submariner, Daytona, GMT Master, Explorer, Datejust, Sea Dweller, Deep Sea, Yachtmaster, Skydweller.

How do I get paid for my Rolex and how fast?

We pay upon inspection.

Is now a good time to sell my Rolex?

Yes, as of the first quarter of 2024, we are seeing prices stabilize after a year of price correction due to a “bubble” that was created post-Covid. While it is difficult to predict future pricing, it is generally believed that prices will continue to decline modestly as most economists are still predicting a slowdown of the economy, even if it is a “soft landing” recession. Another reasons is, previously, Rolex took many years to update their models keeping some consistency in pricing for second hand Rolex watches. However, now we are seeing the brand update models much more frequently, causing relatively new Rolex watches to now become “old models” and drop in value. We always tell clients, if you are considering selling it, now is the time. If you wear it often, love it and have emotional attachments to your Rolex, don’t sell it.

Will servicing my Rolex increase its value?

We generally don’t advise servicing your Rolex if you are going to sell it. We can service it much more economically than most Rolex enthusiasts. You may not get that investment in service or repairs back. It is especially important to leave your Rolex perfectly intact if it is a vintage watch; any part swapping that may occur during service could severely affect your watch value because vintage watch collectors prefer watches to have all original, untampered parts.

What makes Los Angeles Watch Buyer different from selling on online platforms?

Customer service is our number one priority. We do our best to educate our clients. We will meet with you in person. We take a straightforward approach. We do our best to honor our initial quotation.

Are older Rolex watches worth more?

They can be. Generally, Rolex sport watches (GMT, Daytona, Submariner, Sea Dweller) will increase in value the older they get. There are rare models that had limited production that can be very expensive. We can guide you through the process of selling a vintage watch to assure you get the highest price for your vintage Rolex. Not all Rolex models increase in price as they get older though.

What should I do before I bring my Rolex in for an appraisal?

We suggest you include all documentation you have. This includes certificate of authenticity, receipts, warranty, manuals, box, etc.

Do you buy Rolex watches from outside Los Angeles?

Yes, we service all of Southern California. Just let us know where you’re coming from and we will arrange to meet in one of our satellite locations.

Our Clients Reviews

    
 
 
         Benjamin Rew 
 
 
 
  Great fellow, very nice and knowledgeable, and very fair, I highly recommend these guys, I will return!
  
 
        Angie Liggett 
 
 
 
  Fletcher is wonderful to work with. He's a straight shooter and has a kind and respectful presence. Selling sentimental jewelry can be hard, but he made the process so much easier. I left feeling like I got a fair price from a good person. I couldn't recommend him more highly.
  
 
        Courtney Rundell 
 
 
 
  Fletcher was absolutely incredible. He was compassionate about the end of my marriage and my situation - selling my engagement ring was emotional and he went above and beyond getting me a great price and just being a wonderful human.
  
 
        s brian smith 
 
 
 
  I worked with Fletcher to sell a Panerai. He was super responsive and he worked very fast and around my crazy schedule to get the deal done. He got me a fair price too. I 100% recommend working with Fletcher and his team at Los Angeles Jewelry Buyer.
  
 
        June Kamiya 
 
 
 
  We sold a Rolex watch and worked with Fletcher. Very professional, knowledgeable and courteous. He was very pleasant to work with and did exactly what he promised. Highly recommend !
  
 
        Michael Fabiano 
 
 
 
  I had a great experience with Fletcher. He was friendly, knowledgeable, professional and was able to give me a very fair price for a diamond engagement ring I was selling. I’d definitely recommend him and his store!
  
 
        Rebecca T 
 
 
 
  Very professional. They gave me great information and advise. Would recommend.
  
 
        william hopper 
 
 
 
  It was a pleasure working with Fletcher Blackburn.
He was very professional and fair.
I strongly recommend "Los Angeles Jewelry Buyer" and will use their services in the future.
  
 
        Cindy Gonzalez 
 
 
 
  I wanted to sell my Rolex that I don't wear anymore. Fletcher was so nice. He explained everything I needed to know about the condition and price. He really took the time to make sure I was informed and comfortable with my decision. He paid me right on the spot. I would definitely come back.
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 4.6 of 5, based on 10 reviews

Market Demand for Used Rolex Watches in Los Angeles

Sell a Used Rolex Watch

When you sell a Rolex watch, market demand is one of the key factors that determine price. While all used Rolex watches in good condition are valuable, strong market demand combined with limited availability will drive up the price of certain models. In 2024, we’re seeing stability in price among Rolex sports watches (after a price correction from 2023 – which saw prices become overinflated, as with most luxury items).

Market demand is high for these Rolex sports watches, both nationally and internationally. Los Angeles Watch Buyer stands out as one of the few buyers in Los Angeles County with a worldwide resale network. This allows us to offer you more (often much more) than other local buyers for your used Rolex watch. Sell your Rolex with confidence and get the best value.

Here is additional information about the Rolex sports models, which sometimes can be resold for thousands of dollars more than their original retail price—depending on condition and reference number. With this information, understand the value of your Rolex model and explore the best way to sell a Rolex, unlocking the full value of your timepiece. Trust Los Angeles Watch Buyer for expert guidance and top cash offers.

Sell a Rolex GMT- Master

There is currently a strong demand for the original Rolex GMT-Master. An aviator watch that was developed in collaboration with Pan-American Airways, the first Rolex GMT-Master is Reference 6542. It was manufactured from 1954-1959 and includes a 24-hour 4th hand complication.

What made this Rolex so useful to aviators was that it allowed the pilot to simultaneously reference two different time zones. It also drew fans from NASA and international business travelers. The watch achieved heightened fame when it was worn by the character “Pussy Galore” in the James Bond film Goldfinger.

A second iteration of the GMT-Master (Ref. 1675) was introduced in 1959 and manufactured until 1980. Variations of this timepiece that are especially prized among collectors are the ones manufactured in gold or gold and steel, including those with a root beer, nipple dial.

Despite the later introduction of the GMT-Master II, Rolex continued to manufacture new models of the original GMT-Master until the late 1990s, such as ref. 16700, which was made from 1988-1999.

Explore the best way to sell a Rolex GMT- Master and unlock the full value of your timepiece with Los Angeles Watch Buyer.

Sell a Rolex GMT-Master II

The next generation of this legendary timepiece, the Rolex GMT-Master II, was introduced in 1981 with Ref. 16760, which featured a larger case, hands, and hour markers than the original GMT-Master.

The GMT-Master II can also be resold for a substantial cash price — although the demand vs. availability ratio on some models haven’t driven up the price as much as the original GMT-Master. A couple models within this series that are in high demand among collectors are:

The Batman (Ref. 116710 BLNR & 126710BLNR) – Featuring Black & Blue Bezel

The Pepsi (Reference 16710) — Featuring Blue & Red Bezel. Independent hour hand and rotating bezel, allows you to read three different time zones.

Learn how Los Angeles Watch Buyer can help you sell a Rolex GMT-Master for the best possible price. Contact us today for a free valuation. We serve clients throughout Los Angeles County, in person, via our network of executive offices.

Sell a Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is probably the most iconic watch of all the iconic timepieces that Rolex has ever produced. Not only is it a favorite timepiece among professional divers, the Submariner is highly sought-after by all luxury watch enthusiasts. Like the GMT-Master, some of this popularity can be attributed to the timepiece being worn in a James Bond film — this time by Bond himself as played by both Sean Connery and Roger Moore.

The Submariner’s Evolution and Popularity

Introduced in 1954, with Reference 6204 and 6205, the Submariner has evolved over the years with improved water resistance, new movements added, and various small cosmetic changes made. But the watch has always remained distinctive and easily recognizable.

While all Rolex watches are built to last a lifetime, this is especially true of the Submariner — which has become the archetype of the robust “tool watch”. Early models were the first watches that could withstand water pressure up to 100 meters, while today’s Submariners can descend up to 300 meters.

Submariner’s Versatility and Modern Appeal

The suitability of the Submariner for both sporting activities and upscale social outings, has increased appreciation among modern watch enthusiasts for this timepiece — as that combination matches well with current fashion trends. Rolex, however, has held back production on the Submariner (as well as some other Sports models) which has driven up the price.

The Rolex Submariner is manufactured in a variety of metals, including stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, everose, and two-tone — which also contributes to its appeal.

Rolex Submariner: Los Angeles Watch Buyer’s Latest Purchases

The Submariner Kermit (Ref. 116610LV):

Introduced in 2003 for Rolex’s 50^th Anniversary, the Submariner Kermit has a black dial and green bezel.

The Submariner Hulk (Ref. 116610LV):

Released in 2010 as an update to the Kermit Submariner, The Hulk has both a green dial and a green bezel.

The Submariner Big Crown (Ref: 6538):

In production from 1954-1959. Although many Submariners are referred to as a “James Bond” watch, this vintage Rolex is the only one worn on three films: Dr. No, Goldfinger, and From Russia With Love.

The Submariner Four Liner (Ref. 14060M):

While there are other Four Liner models (i.e. Submariners with 4 lines of text on the dial), the Four Liner 14060M is sometimes referred to as the last “real” Submariner due to its aluminum bezel and sleek lugs.

You can sell a Rolex Submariner for an excellent cash return, even if your particular model isn’t one of the four listed above. Many other Submariner variants command high prices on today’s resale market.

To discover the value of your Submariner, reach out to our Los Angeles watch buyer today for a free valuation.

Start the process online by clicking the “Get Quote” button and providing details about your Submariner, including whether you have the original box or any papers. Whether you’re seeking guidance on how to sell a Rolex watch or where to sell your Rolex watch locally, Los Angeles Watch Buyer remains your dependable partner throughout the process.

Sell a Rolex Daytona

While the Rolex Daytona wasn’t worn by James Bond, like the Submariner, it achieved even greater celebrity status by being worn by the Hollywood legend and race car driver Paul Newman.

At Los Angeles Watch Buyer, we are always interested in purchasing vintage and contemporary Rolex Daytonas. However, we pride ourselves as the best place to sell a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona — popularly known as the “Paul Newman” Daytona.

The Cosmograph Daytona wasn’t always as coveted as it is today. When it was first introduced in the 1960s, many didn’t appreciate the exotic dial — with its distinctive hash marks that have a small square at the tip of the indices, and art deco style numbers.

However, all that changed when the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona became inextricably linked with Paul Newman in the 1980s, and collectors began calling the timepiece the Paul Newman Daytona.

The original version with a white dial, black elapsed-time counters, and large, easy-to-read art deco numerals is the most iconic of all the Paul Newman Daytonas. However, the other models, including those which feature small and simple numerals are highly sought-after as well.

Because the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is so popular and valuable, it is one of the most copied watches in the world. Not only are there copies but fakes which have been cobbled together from various individual Rolex components. Thus if you ever wish to purchase a vintage Paul Newman Daytona, it is important to deal only with an established seller who has impeccable credentials.

Similarly, when looking to sell a used Rolex Daytona, it’s imperative to engage with a reputable and accredited buyer. Los Angeles Watch Buyer has assisted numerous clients in Los Angeles County in selling Rolex timepieces, ensuring they receive the highest possible cash offer for their luxury watches.

Contact our Rolex buyers now to sell a Rolex Daytona in Los Angeles for a generous cash price.

Top Collectible Rolex Daytonas

A few of the most collectible and valuable Rolex Daytonas include:

Daytona Cosmograph (Ref. 6239)

The original Paul Newman Daytona worn by the actor. Manufactured from the mid 1960s to early 1970s.

Daytona Cosmograph (Ref. 6263)

The “Panda” black/white version of this Daytona is the most coveted and expensive Paul Newman Daytona.

Rolex Daytona (Ref. 116520)

Introduced in 2000, this Daytona features the Caliber 4130: the first completely new in-house movement that Rolex had designed in more than 50 years.

Rolex Daytona (Ref. 116500LN)

Introduced in 2016 as a replacement for the 116520, this steel Daytona has been described as a perfect blend of old and new. It is currently in high demand, driving up the price.

The Best Books on Rolex Watches

Coming up with any “best of” list is hard to do, because it not only is a subjective endeavor but a lot depends on the criteria for evaluating greatness. However, we at Los Angeles Watch Buyer often are asked by clients for suggestions regarding the best Rolex books. So, here are a few of our choices that we would recommend.

The Best of Time: Rolex Wristwatches

Created by James M. Dowling and Jeffrey P. Hess this gorgeous volume includes over 400 color photographs of Rolex wristwatches, as well as arguably the most extensive written history about the iconic watchmaker. Although the price tag of $125 might put off some buyers, this hardcover, heirloom-quality, book is a must-have for any serious vintage Rolex collector.

Although labeled “An Unauthorized History,” The Best of Time: Rolex Wristwatches is an authoritative resource. Both Dowling and Hess are recognized Rolex experts, and their deep knowledge is readily evident in both the watch descriptions and historical details.

Production dates of all Rolex models are included, along with case numbers and movement numbers. Practical advice is also given for understanding the value of different vintage Rolex watches, as well as identifying fakes, buying a Rolex on eBay, and more.

Vintage Rolex Sport Models

As Los Angeles Watch Buyer specializes in buying vintage Rolex sports watches from the public, it will come as no surprise that one of our favorite books is: Vintage Rolex Sports Models: A Complete Visual Reference & Unauthorized History. Beautifully designed and illustrated, this unique book by Martin Skeet provides a comprehensive history of the Rolex Cosmograph (Daytona), Submariner, GMT-Master, Sea Dweller, Explorer, Turn-O-Graph, and Milgauss.

Over 140 vintage Rolex sports models are featured, along with color photographs and helpful diagrams to illustrate the differences between different references of each model. Now, in its revised and expanded 3^rd edition (2008), the book is a valuable contemporary resource for Rolex dealers and collectors alike.

While a price guide for Rolex sports watches is included in the book, this is of limited-value to sellers today, as demand and prices can fluctuate greatly for vintage Rolex watches — and this is especially true with sports models, which have greatly increased in price over the past 18 months.

Rolex Highlights

The book Rolex Highlights by Herbert James is a short and handy reference guide that is perfect for the person who wants to begin exploring the history of Rolex and its most iconic wristwatches.

While clocking in at only 96 pages, the book is loaded with excellent photographs and useful technical details and specifications, especially of watches from Rolex’s current collection. But keep in mind that the publication date is 2014, so models introduced after that date will not be included.

That being said, this is a great book for the person who is planning to buy their first new Rolex watch, and wants additional information to help them make a decision as to which model. With a retail price of only $27.40, it is also one of the most affordable hardcover Rolex books on the market.

Rolex Daytona and Rolex GMT-Master

In this book choice, we are combining two books together (Rolex Daytona and Rolex GMT-Master), as both books were produced by Guido Mondani and friends. Guido Mondani is a legend when it comes to producing extraordinary reference books on Rolex watches, as well as books about other luxury watchmakers such as Patek Philippe.

If you are a fan of the Rolex Daytona or Rolex GMT-Master, then Mondani’s books (produced by his own publishing house) are without peer. However, such unrivalled excellence (like Rolex itself) comes with a price. The Daytona book retails for $394.00, and the GMT-Master book, $495.99.

Both books describe every single reference number of the respective legendary model in question, and each is loaded with high-quality photographs and every technical detail that could be considered “essential,” as well as curious trivia and fascinating historical notes.

If you are looking to better understand the precise details of each Daytona and GMT-Master that inform the rarity and value of the timepiece, then this is the reference guide for you. Or if you are simply a long-time fan of the Daytona or GMT-Master and want to better understand where your own timepiece fits into the history of the iconic model, these books will inform you like no other.

Sell a Rolex watch to Los Angeles Watch Buyer today. We buy all models of Rolex timepieces, including the Oyster Perpetual, Day-Date, Turn-o-graph, Submariner, Yacht-Master, Datejust, Explorer, GMT-Master, Airking, President, Daytona, Commando, Pearl-Master, Masterpiece, Cellini, Thunderbird, and Sea-Dweller.

We also buy pre-owned luxury watches originally purchased at the finest prestige watch dealers in Los Angeles County, including Ramerica Fine Jewelry & Watches, Feldmar Watch Company, Luxury Time, Tell Time Watches, Modern Swiss, Levi Jewelry And Watches, Martin Luxury Watches and Jewelry, Timepiece Network, Beverly Hills Watch Company, Essential Watches, and Westime.

Sell Your Watch Securely

Los Angeles Watch Buyer is Southern California’s premier buyer of high-end watches. When it comes to collectable timepieces, high-grade Swiss watches, and antique watches, we are both knowledgeable and pleased to provide valuations for you free of charge. Some of the more important names that we look for include:
Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Breitling, Panerai, Vacheron Constantin, Breguet, Audemars Piguet, IWC, Franck Muller, Hublot, Chopard, Jaeger LeCoultre, Omega, Piaget and More…

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