"Rolex." The name alone conjures images of smart-looking timepiece designs, intricate craftsmanship, and the sensation of something innately special. With more than a century of history, their quality, durability, and attractiveness are well-established, and many even stay within families as heirlooms. It's that timelessness, combined with continuing innovation across all the Rolex watch lines, that makes them the perfect candidate for a stunning Christmas gift this year.
Whether you want to surprise a family member after a long and busy year or express your love to a spouse, Rolex watches are a fantastic choice. Receiving one as a gift can easily become a cherished memory, held in just as high regard as the timepiece itself. With so many options to consider, though, which one will make the best gift? Consider these five options chosen from Rolex's most beloved creations.
Rolex Datejust
Perhaps the most iconic Rolex, the Datejust features everything watch aficionados love in this classic design. That includes the waterproof case, the Cyclops magnification window that enlarges the date display, and the classic Oyster bracelet. With a storied history, Datejusts have changed very little over their lifespan due to the solid fundamentals of its design. The popularity inspired by those fundamentals means that you have plenty of room to explore for a model that will appeal to its intended recipient.
Rolex Daytona
Initially, the Daytona got off to a slow start during its release — but it soon found favor with some big names, including actor and philanthropist Paul Newman. Linked in name and history to famous races that once took place directly on Daytona Beach, this watch's racing heritage is evident immediately upon first glance. That is because instead of a date window, the Daytona features three precision chronographs. This not only adds aesthetic value for those who like more complex watches, but also provides useful functionality for others.
Rolex Submariner
While the Datejust exemplifies the simplest and most classic Rolex design, the Submariner is also a strong contender for the title of most popular and recognizable Rolex. Originally designed with sportsmen in mind, the Submariner is a watch that demonstrates superior waterproofing thanks to its intended target of underwater divers. Whether you love the outdoors yourself or you're attracted by the Submariner's broad, easily readable dial and masculine design, this watch is always a solid choice. Choose from stainless steel, white, or yellow gold options as you shop for your loved one.
Rolex President
Originally called the "Day-Date," the Rolex President takes the date window one step further. At the 12 o'clock position on the watch dial, a second window indicates the correct day of the week. It became known as the President after Lyndon Johnson regularly wore his in the Oval Office, and its popularity has continued to endure ever since. For a step up from the Datejust, this is an excellent option.
Rolex GMT Master II
Another watch with a rich history, GMT Masters were first built for pilots performing long-haul flights across time zones. Today, that legacy leaves us with one of the most interesting Rolex watches available. What sets it apart is the ability to tell time across two different time zones at once. The idea: set the main watch hands to GMT, then rotate the outer bezel — which features 24-hour clock markings — to the appropriate position for the home or destination time zone. With improved internal movements, this is one watch to really wish for on Christmas Day.
Picking the Perfect Rolex Watch
With so many options to consider, finding a watch that matches the personality of its intended recipient won't be difficult. Remember to consider factors such as band size, elements specific to each watch's design, complications, and even the type of strap on the watch. All these can vary between different watches, creating endless variety from which to choose. As Christmas approaches, exploring any one of these five watches could lead to a Christmas gift your recipient will never forget.
