How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (2024)

How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (1)

How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World?

Rolex is, unlike what many people think, a B2-B brand. Rolex does not sell direct-to-consumer, with the exception of one official Retail store that they own in Geneva.

To distribute its watches, Rolex instead has partners, official Rolex retailers, which are independent companies. The Rolex Retailers sell Rolex watches under a distribution agreement and are not owned directly by Rolex. Simplified, the contract states, amongst other things, that Rolex agrees to send watches to the official retailer, and the retailer is then supposed to sell these watches to final customers.

Whilst many luxury watch brands have moved more and more in the direction of owning the whole distribution chain by opening up brand-owned stores, Rolex has not gone in that direction. And Rolex has shown no interest in moving in that direction either.

Whilst this would greatly improve the margins for Rolex, it also involves a lot of risk, responsibility, and administration. One reason could therefore be that Rolex doesn’t want to handle all of this. Instead, they want to focus on what they do best. developing and manufacturing wristwatches.

To distribute its watches, Rolex has official Rolex retailers around the world.

How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (2)

Official Rolex retailers VS non-official Rolex retailers

It’s important to point out the difference between official Rolex retailers, also known as Rolex ADs or Authorized Rolex retailers. Official Rolex retailers are the only retailers that have a direct contract with Rolex to receive new Rolex watches directly from the factory at wholesale prices. Non-official Rolex retailers are independent retailers that get their watches elsewhere, mainly from customers who have once bought the watches from Rolex retailers.

In Rolex’s own words “Only official Rolex retailers are allowed to sell and maintain a Rolex watch.”

Of course, that is not completely true as anyone is able and allowed to sell Rolex watches. But only they are allowedby Rolex.

Furthermore, they state “With the necessary skills, technical know-how, and special equipment, they guarantee the authenticity of each and every part of your Rolex and help you make the choice that will last a lifetime.”

And this is true. Every Rolex retailer received proper training, and many of them have dedicated Rolex watchmakers that have received training from Rolex to acquire the required know-how to service and maintain Rolex watches. Furthermore, as only official Rolex retailers can sell brand new watches directly from the Rolex factory, only they can activate the 5-year international Rolex guarantee.

How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (3)

Rolex and official retailers

As Rolex works with third parties for the distribution of its watches, the number of official Rolex retailers that the company has – and where they are located, will naturally change over the years. Some Rolex retailers will go out of business, some will end their contract with Rolex, and in up-and-coming markets, we may see a rapid increase in the number of stores that establish themselves there. For some retailers, Rolex may cancel the retailer agreement due to faulty practices and for not following the contract.

With that said, the total number of Rolex official retailers around the world can vary from year-to-year. But as with any luxury item, Rolex wants to make sure that they have an appropriate number of official Rolex retailers around the world. Too much and they may risk flooding the market with watches and devaluing the brand. Too few and they may risk selling too few watches. Rolex is also very mindful about where these Rolex retailers are located.

As you can see if you look at where the Rolex retailers are located, it is usually in wealthy countries, and in prominent, first-class locations such as in major cities. And for natural reasons, Rolex wants to make sure that Rolex retailers are not too close to each other so that they directly compete with eachother.

How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (4)How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (5)How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (6)

How many countries have Rolex official retailers?

Rolex has official retailers in a long list of different countries. Naturally, Rolex doesn’t have retailers in every single retailer around the world. Some countries are just too small, others are poor and don’t have the clientele Rolex targets, and others are unstable and risky.

As of 2022, Rolex had official Rolex retailers in a total of 118 countries.In large, wealthy countries, Rolex can have more than 100 official Rolex stores, but in smaller countries, they may just have one. The United States is the country with the most number of official Rolex retailers, reaching a total number of 317!

The top countries with the most official Rolex retailers are (in no particular order):

  • The United States
  • France
  • Great Britain
  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy

How many Rolex authorized retailers are there in the world?

As of 2022, Rolex has a total of 1816 authorized retailers around the world. Note that this number changes over the years, but not dramatically.

If you want to see how the number of official Rolex retailers are distributed across the 118 countries, the equation looks as follows:

1+2+1+10+1+22+14+2+4+3+1+13+1+1+20+1+1+1+28+2+1+6+7+2+2+2+3+7+1+3+1+3+1+1+3+60+133+1+32+2+2+43+1+1+22+10+2+3+5+134+2+3+64+1+2+3+1+2+2+2+11+103+17+2+3+35+2+1+1+3+1+1+1+13+6+3+6+2+3+3+1+2+10+9+10+1+2+2+191+1+1+17+1+19+1+1+10+12+41+3+7+34+21+20+2+15+1+1+1+21+103+317+3+1+8+2+2=1816

As you can see, most countries that have at least one Rolex retailer have between 1 and 3 retailers. But then there are a few major countries that have more than a hundred.

How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches (2024)

FAQs

How many Rolex Authorized Dealers are There in the World? - Millenary Watches? ›

As of 2022, Rolex has a total of 1816 authorized retailers around the world.

Who is the largest Rolex retailer in the world? ›

The new store won't be the world's largest Rolex boutique, however. That title goes to the Rolex megastore in a Dubai mall that occupies 850 square meters of retail space or almost 10,000 square feet.

Can you buy a Rolex from Authorised dealer? ›

New and genuine Rolex watches are exclusively sold by official Rolex Jewelers. They warrant the authenticity of your Rolex and ensure that it enjoys a five-year international guarantee.

Who is the biggest Rolex dealer in Switzerland? ›

Rolex Store - Bucherer Zurich

Carl-Friedrich Bucherer opened his first watch store in 1888 in Lucerne and laid the foundation for a successful family business which has extended to a 3rd generation. Today, Bucherer is one of the leading watch and jewellery retailers in Switzerland with over 1100 employees.

Where is the largest volume Rolex dealer in the USA? ›

Long's in Boston currently believes its 4,600 square foot Rolex store on Newbury Street in Boston is the largest standalone boutique in the United States.

Which Rolex has the highest demand? ›

The most commonly sought-after Rolex watches include Rolex Daytona, GMT-Master(II), Submariner, and Sea-Dweller. The Yacht-Master is also a very popular sports watch, but not like the Submariner.

What is more prestigious than Rolex? ›

Patek Philippe arguably owns the top-tier of high-horology. Once, the most expensive watch ever sold was a Patek Philippe with many complications and sold for over 11 million dollars, second only to a Rolex that was worn by Paul Newman.

What is the waitlist for Rolex 2023? ›

So, the Rolex Daytona waitlist 2023 is likely to be at least 5 years if you're able to buy a Rolex Daytona. We've seen Covid pass through, World Cups end and start, markets rise and fall almost simultaneously and all within the time it takes to get your hands on a Rolex Daytona.

Can I just walk in and buy a Rolex? ›

Availability. Walk into any authorized Rolex dealer, and you're going to see a lot of Datejusts, Day-Dates, Oyster Perpetuals, perhaps a Milgaus, maybe an Air-King, and usually a fresh batch of Cellini dress watches in a wide range of sizes and colors.

How long is a Rolex waiting list? ›

Waiting times for different Rolex models
ModelDuration*
Oyster Perpetual6 to 12 months
Sky-DwellerOver 3 years
Submariner1 – 2 years
Yacht-Master6 to 18 months
10 more rows

Which country best to get a Rolex? ›

Switzerland: As the home of Rolex, Switzerland has traditionally been a great place to buy Rolex watches.

How many Rolex Authorised dealers are there? ›

How many Rolex authorized retailers are there in the world? As of 2022, Rolex has a total of 1816 authorized retailers around the world.

What percentage do Rolex dealers make? ›

According to the New York Times, the margin that most Rolex retailers have when they sell a Rolex watch is 40%. Sometimes, the margin is higher, and sometimes it is lower. Note that this is the retail markup. This means that official Rolex retailers buy Rolex watches 40% cheaper than the recommended retail price.

Why is Rolex inventory so low? ›

Clearly, divergent supply and demand is what's driving the scarcity of Rolexes available for purchase. Demand is astronomically high, and even a supply of one million new watches per year can't meet it. It comes down to a numbers game, and there's no sign that this will be changing any time soon.

What is the most expensive Rolex you can buy in store? ›

Rolex GMT Master II Ice: $485,350 (2021)

It is the most expensive new Rolex you can buy. It retails for $485,350, but its price might vary depending on the market price for diamonds at the time of your purchase. The Rolex GMT Master II Ice is entirely covered in precious stones and made from white gold.

What is the most selling watch in USA? ›

Rolex reigns supreme.

Rolex once again claimed the top spot on Chrono24's list of the five best-selling brands.

Which Rolex will be discontinued 2023? ›

Discontinued Rolex Models in 2023 - Rolex Datejust 41 with a Meteorite Dial. Rolex announced the discontinuation of the Datejust model with a mother-of-pearl dial. Interestingly, ONLY in the 41mm line. This fact has left watch enthusiasts curious about the reasons behind this decision and its implications on the market ...

What is the most sought after watch in 2023? ›

Sports watches to collect for 2023
  • Rolex Submariner. ...
  • Tudor Submariner. ...
  • Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscape. ...
  • Patek Philippe Nautilus. ...
  • Tag Heuer Carrera. ...
  • Grand Seiko Spring Drive. ...
  • Richard Mille RM UP-01 Ferrari. ...
  • Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch.
Mar 21, 2023

Which is the No 1 watch brand in world? ›

1. Rolex. If there's one watch brand out there that everybody knows, it's Rolex.

What is the most sold watch in the world? ›

The Most Popular Watches in the World Are the Rolex Submariners. So, the most popular watches in the world based on the search number on Google are the Rolex Submariners. Today, Submariners are so popular that it's not unusual for someone to have to wait months or even years for delivery.

Do you pay to be on Rolex waitlist? ›

The Rolex waiting list may sound difficult, but it's easier than that. It's also as real as all you need to do is spend money.

How often do Rolex authorized dealers get new inventory? ›

How often do Ads get Rolex shipments with new watches? In general, Rolex retailers get shipments with Rolex watches from Rolex once a month. This usually happens towards the end of the month.

Is Rolex entry level? ›

The Oyster Perpetual is Rolex's official entry-level watch, pairing two of the company's most important design features: a water-resistant “Oyster” case and automatic “Perpetual” movement.

Can I sell my Rolex without papers? ›

An official Rolex remains an incredible timepiece and will still appeal to buyers without the papers. As such, you can sell a Rolex without the guarantee card. While the absence of a guarantee card will likely reduce the watch's value, the impact might be more negligible than you think.

Does a Rolex have to be serviced by Rolex? ›

To guarantee continued accuracy and waterproofness, Rolex recommends that you periodically return your watch to an Official Rolex Retailer or Service Centre for professional servicing. It is recommended to service your Rolex approximately every 10 years depending on the model and real-life usage.

Does Rolex know if you sold your watch? ›

With the serial number, Rolex can identify which AD sold that watch and can in turn contact them, informing them that one of their customers is selling their watch.

Do you have to be invited to buy a Rolex? ›

You might not get invited directly, but when they recognize the passion you have for watches – you will for sure be invited. In case you do decide to buy a pre-owned Rolex, be sure to check out our blog about how to buy a pre-owned Rolex.

How long is Rolex warranty? ›

Rolex guarantees the proper functioning of its watches for a period of five years from the date of purchase. The Rolex guarantee excludes normal wear-and-tear (notably the wear-and-tear of non-metal bracelets and straps), loss, theft, or damage due to misuse.

How many Rolexes are made a year? ›

The total production number for 2021 is closer to 1.24m watches.

Which brands are better than Rolex? ›

Feature: 5 Watches That Are Cheaper And Better Than A Rolex
  • Grand Seiko Snowflake SBGA211. ...
  • Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Professional 210.32. ...
  • Kudoke K2. ...
  • Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 AB0138241C1A1. ...
  • Christopher Ward Bel Canto.

Are Rolexes cheaper in Dubai than us? ›

Rolex watches are significantly more expensive than other timepieces, and that is all because of their material quality. The retail pricing of a Rolex is more or less the same in Dubai or any other city.

Who is Rolex main competitor? ›

Rolex's competitors and similar companies include Citizen Watch, CROWN & CALIBER, Orient and Festina Group. Rolex is a Swiss watchmaker that together with its subsidiary Montres Tudor design, manufacture, distribute and service wristwatches sold under the Rolex and Tudor brands.

Why won t Rolex sell me a watch? ›

Here are some of the most common reasons why Rolex may refuse to sell you a watch: If the watch is for “display only” If the watch is a popular model that the store wants to keep for “VIP” customers. If they suspect that you will flip/sell the watch.

Is Rolex limiting supply? ›

There aren't enough Rolex watches to go around. Some cynically assume that the brand is artificially restricting supply to supercharge demand, but the watchmaker has always emphatically denied it.

Can authorized Rolex dealers sell above MSRP? ›

The short answer is yes, a Rolex AD can charge more than the retail price. And as a matter of fact, with the current situation of the Rolex market, there have been plenty of reports that some do.

How much does an average Rolex cost to make? ›

The cost to produce an average Rolex watch is between $2,500 – $4,000. Factors that include precious metals and complications will add to the costs of making a Rolex but for the most popular stainless steel references, the $2,500 to $4,000 range is accurate for Rolex average costs.

Does 90% of Rolex profit go to charity? ›

Rolex is actually a non profit charity trust. and donates 90 of his profits every year. why would they do that? well, by donating to charity, Rolex receives major tax benefits.

What is the average appreciation of a Rolex? ›

According to the data, the average price of a used Rolex watch rose from less than US$5,000 in 2011 to more than US$13,000 by the end of last year. Intriguingly, the appreciation of Rolex watches since the beginning of the pandemic in early 2020 is nearly equal to the total price increase over the preceding five years.

What is the cheapest legit Rolex? ›

What is the best and cheapest Rolex you can get? Any Air-King, Datejust, or Explorer on our list are fantastic choices if you're looking for a cheap Rolex watch. Still, a popular opinion among many Rolex enthusiasts is that the Air-King is the best affordable Rolex.

What is the cheapest thing Rolex sells? ›

What's the cheapest Rolex? Prices can vary, but generally speaking the cheapest Rolex watch is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, which has a starting price of around $5,000 if you're buying new, but can sometimes be found for cheaper if you don't mind buying a used model on the pre-owned market.

How much is the cheapest Rolex ever? ›

As the market currently stands, the cheapest Rolex is the Oyster Perpetual with a starting price of $4,900. Available with a variety of dial colors, the Oyster Perpetual has no additional complications other than being able to tell the time but remains an elegant luxury watch.

Which watches make the most money? ›

The U.S. brand Timex and Swiss watchmakers Rolex were the most valuable luxury watch brands based on their average price premium. The source defined average premium as “a measure of how much more a new, unworn item currently sells for, as compared to its original retail price”.

What brand sells the best watches? ›

Here are the top picks:
  • Best Watch Brands Overall: Omega, Rolex, Tag Heuer.
  • Best Affordable Watch Brands: Swatch, Timex, Citizen.
  • Best Expensive Watch Brands: Patek Philippe, Cartier.
  • Best Smartwatch Brands: Samsung, Apple.
  • Best Watch Brands For Men: Panerai, Shinola, Seiko.
  • Best Watch Brands For Women: Hermès, Breda.
Mar 7, 2023

Who is the biggest Rolex ambassador? ›

To this day, Jackie Stewart remains one of the most high profile Rolex brand ambassadors.

Who is the biggest watch retailer in the US? ›

Tourneau is currently the largest authorized retailer of timepieces in the United States, with about 8,000 watches and 100 brands. Tourneau also has a trade-in program for upgrading watch styles.

Who is the largest Rolex dealer East Coast? ›

Boston, MA—Long's Jewelers has opened its new Rolex boutique (image), the largest in the United States. At 3,500 square feet over two floors, the new space—nestled between a Chanel and Bvlgari store—tops even the 3,000-square-foot space at the Wynn Las Vegas.

Who are the leaders of Rolex? ›

Rolex Key Executives
  • Jean-Frederic Dufour. Jean-Frederic Dufour serves as the CEO / President of Rolex.
  • Rahalil Ral. Executive Director. Rahalil Ral serves as the Executive Director of ROLEX. ...
  • Vittorio Roberto. Executive Vice President Creative Director ROLEX North America.

Does Warren Buffett own a Rolex? ›

Warren Buffett – Rolex Day Date (US$42,000)

“The Oracle of Omaha” has various models but is usually seen with a classic Rolex Day Date, per Rolex magazine. Known as the “President” watch, the timepiece has been worn by former American leaders from Lyndon B.

Does Warren Buffet wear a Rolex? ›

Buffett's Rolex of choice is an 18k yellow gold Rolex Day-Date. Known as the 'President' watch, the Day-Date is unmistakable, especially in yellow gold.

What type of person wears a Rolex? ›

A Great Eye for Detail – There is a reason many of the world's most detail-oriented men and women sport Rolex. One has to look no further than the fact that Rolex is officially worn by the likes of Yo-Yo Ma, Placido Domingo, Tiger Woods, US Presidents, and others who have made amazing contributions to the world.

Which is the No 1 watch company in world? ›

1. Rolex. Rolex is a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer based in Geneva, Switzerland. The company is well-known for its high-quality and precision timepieces, and its watches are considered some of the world's finest.

What is the most sold watch brand ever? ›

Rolex reigns supreme.

Retailer Watches of Switzerland recently placed Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet watches in its “super high demand” category. Breitling, which is rumored to have an IPO in the works, beat out other competitive brands for the No.

How much do Rolex dealers make? ›

Rolex Sales Salary
Annual SalaryMonthly Pay
Top Earners$86,000$7,166
75th Percentile$59,000$4,916
Average$51,750$4,312
25th Percentile$36,500$3,041

What is Rolex sister company? ›

Montres Tudor SA, or simply Tudor, is a Swiss watchmaker based in Geneva, Switzerland. Registered in 1926 by Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex, the brand remains a sister company to Rolex; both companies are owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation.

Who are rivals to Rolex? ›

Top 5 Rolex competitors
  • Breitling.
  • Jaeger-LeCoultre.
  • Audemars Piguet.
  • Hublot.
  • TAG Heuer.

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