The Most Affordable Vintage Rolex Model?

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I was asked this question the other day by a colleague at work & after pondering for a moment, I arrived at the manual-winding Rolex Speedking/Precision.

this model can be purchased for anywhere from $950-$2000 (depending upon its condition & whether the watch includes a SS oyster bracelet).

granted, they look a bit small compared to today's modern Rolexes but the Speedking does have a legacy of its own going back to WW2.

as a youngster, I recall seeing a number of these models worn during the late 50s-early 60s...many had been purchased by GIs/veterans during their assignments on the European front.

my father had one as well. he mentioned that they ran about $25.00 at the time & when it finally stopped working (late 1950s), he chucked it as one would a disposable Seiko 5...kinda' wish he had held on to the watch as I would have found a use for it later down the road, either as a keepsake or as an everyday 'beater'.

during the late 50s-early 60s, one could purchase an exquisite dress/sports watch for under $500.00 & even a $100.00 Hamilton was considered something special. unfortunately those days are long gone.