Newbie question please advise

[Sluggy123]

Hi. I was hoping for some advise as I don't really know anything about rolexs.

I'm a young guy in my early twenties and was given a beautiful rolex datejust oyster perpetual black face stick dial 18k white gold fluted bezel model 16234 for my high school graduation from a family friend. The watch was in like new condition, had the original oyster band, and was roughly (can't remember the exact year) 8-10 years old.

Unfortunetly, though, last year I started grad school for my Masters in Social Work and needed cash badly for books and expenses so I sold the rolex. I loved the watch but figured social workers shouldn't wear rolexs anyways. I understand now that I probably got ripped off when i sold it (sold it for $2200).

Anyhow, since the day i sold the watch i have regretted doing it and have been haunted. I really want that watch back on my wrist! So now although i'm still a broke social worker in a ton of debt, i have a few bucks saved for this purpose and was hoping to start looking for a used watch with similar specs that is affordable.
Could someone please advise me as to what a fair price would be to pay for a watch with similar specs (used but in good condition) and where to start looking?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks so much.

[dddrees]

Welcome to TRF.

I would think this forums For Sale section would be a good place to start looking. No matter where you buy just make sure it is from someone you can trust. Sorry can't help you with a price though.

[MonBK]

Start by looking in the for sale section here on the forum.

Should run you approx. $2,000-2,500

Welcome

[Sluggy123]

How do i search the forums? I do not see a search function but once I find it I will take your advice and search the for sale section..

[azguy]

Go to search in the top menu bar and select advanced search, you cna the customize your search to include just the for sales section. Bottom right of the advanced search page

[slcbbrown]

When you sold, you probably didn't get robbed-- depending on condition.

[Sluggy123]

So just a follow up question (forgive my ignorance). I have been told Rolex's generally hold their value pretty well over time. It was my belief this watch was more like $5-6000 new. That means if its now worth 2500 it has lost at least half its value...?
Are certain model rolex's better than others in terms of investment value over the long term (ie won't depreciate)? I really do like this watch and the exact specs but if the price will only depreciate I might reconsider.

[drtooth73]

Originally Posted by Sluggy123

Are certain model rolex's better than others in terms of investment value over the long term (ie won't depreciate)? I really do like this watch and the exact specs but if the price will only depreciate I might reconsider.

Yes, the professional models depreciate less, and sometimes appreciate in value.

[Sluggy123]

Why is this? Are the professional models better made or more in demand or both?

[RRGHOST1]

Daytonas, Submariners,GMT's and other Sports/Professional models hold there value better,not because they are better made, as all Rolex are made to the same exacting degree but you have to consider the demand and price rises etc...and there are lots of DJ's out there for sale.

[TSW]

Welcome!

[slcbbrown]

Originally Posted by Sluggy123

Why is this? Are the professional models better made or more in demand or both?

Over the last 50 years, there were many more DJ's made than sport models. There are still tons of DJ's (old and new) out there. This simply means that you can get a great value on a Rolex with a pre-owned Datejust.