Based on these selected Rolex models
the following diagram was created. It shows the development of the watch prices from 1969 to 2020 (January) based on the old Rolex price lists. Because not all older price lists were available any more, there are some gaps in between the lines. Another reason for the gaps is, that with a model change a model is not longer offered for some time or no longer appears in the price lists.
Of interest is the price development compared to inflation. Therefore, inflation in Germany is plotted into the chart. The values refer to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This is determined by the Federal Statistical Office and refers to a fixed basket of goods and services for private households. This includes “investment goods” or better “durable goods” (e.g., car, refrigerator, furniture) and consumables (e.g., food, petrol, electricity, toilet paper) and services (e.g., artisan, cleaning, cinema ticket). The composition of the basket should correspond to what the “average household” consumes and is reviewed every couple of years and adjusted if necessary.
The data of the early years up to approx. 1990 are very close and difficult to read. For that reason try the following zoom:
As you can see, a Rolex is a good value in addition to its value in use. Prices have risen overall the years since 1969. It should be noted however, that there have been some important innovations within and new models have been released (combined with a new reference number, e.g. from the handwinding daytona to the automatic daytona). Naturally, these changes are also reflected in price.