Buying a vintage Rolex... Advice please.

[Czechman]

Greetings, this is my first post... hope I get this right.

I want a vintage Rolex and have an absolute maximum budget of $3k. I'm not looking for anything flashy, I prefer understated quality items that reflect my personality and enjoy the simplicity of the machine bezeled 16220 models. It will be worn daily.

I've done some basic researching and find these available over a wide price range, from $3k to $1k which adds to my confusion and would appreciate any advice on choosing a fine watch for a fair and reasonable price.

Just in case there are better investments in the Rolex line, I'm open to your expertise and suggestions within my price range and style parameters... Simple, steel or white gold, Arabic or stick numerals and date.

Thank you.

Woody