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BQ Glossary - Refurbished Rolex Watches

Buying a luxury watch can be a significant investment, so you want to make sure you know everything about your purchase. For instance, what does it mean if you’re buying a refurbished watch? Refurbished watches are different from your typical pre-owned watch, so it’s good to understand the details. 

In today’s BQ Glossary, we’ll explain what a refurbished watch is, and we’ll review some of the most desirable refurbished Rolex models.

What Is a Refurbished Rolex?

A refurbished Rolex is a Rolex watch that is reconditioned and repaired to be in like-new condition. This could mean that the watch has undergone repairs or aesthetic changes to bring it up to Rolex’s usual standards. To be considered properly refurbished, an experienced Rolex repair professional must confirm every detail. 

When a Rolex is done with the refurbishment process, it should look new, have all working parts, and operate precisely.

ROLEX DAY-DATE 118138
ROLEX GMT-MASTER II 16700

How Are Luxury Watches Reconditioned?

Luxury watches, especially Rolex watches, are reconditioned with a thorough process that includes numerous steps. The first step will always be a visual inspection to ensure the Rolex is genuine and that no aftermarket accessories have replaced parts of the watch. The visual inspection will help the service specialist understand what aesthetic adjustments need to be made.

Next, the technician will conduct a test of your Rolex to determine if it’s in good working order. The technician will find the defects and issues the Rolex has so that it can be serviced and all problems can be fixed. The Rolex will be tested for precision and accuracy and any complications will be tested as well.

The technician will disassemble the movement of the watch and separate all parts of the Rolex. This process includes using a solution to rid the watch of old lubricants, dirt, and other particulates. At this point, the technician will replace any parts that are worn out or broken.

Finally, the service technician will clean and polish the Rolex parts, including the case, bracelet, and any other parts that haven’t been cleaned yet. The watch is cleaned using ultrasonic technology to bring it up to Rolex standards.

What Standards Are Applied During Refurbishment?

After the watch is reconditioned, the refurbishment process includes high quality-control standards to ensure the Rolex is working properly. These quality tests will ensure the Rolex is precise and accurate. There will also be a pressure test conducted to ensure the Oyster case is up to the depth standards listed by the Rolex model. This test uses a special tool to ensure the watch still works properly at the guaranteed depth. Adjustments can be made as necessary at this phase. 

Finally, the watch will undergo a final quality and visual inspection to ensure the watch is operating at Rolex’s rigorous standards. The refurbished watch should operate like it is brand new out of the Rolex factory.

Rolex Milgauss 116400GV

The Most Desirable Reconditioned Rolex Models

Refurbished Rolex watches are a great purchase, as you can often find them at great prices and they come with part warranties. In short, you can get a Rolex that has been reconditioned to nearly brand-new status for a lower price. 

If you’re trying to decide what model of refurbished Rolex to buy, we have some great suggestions for you.

Of course, the Rolex Datejust is a timeless choice. This watch has been in Rolex’s production line since 1945, introducing the innovation of the date window to the watch dial. The Rolex Datejust is a beautiful watch with a classic design. There are also many Datejust models on the market, in various styles, colours and materials. 

You can find vintage and modern Datejust models right here in the BQ Watches inventory. Browse our selection below.

ROLEX DATEJUST 16200
  • ROLEX DATEJUST 79174

    ROLEX DATEJUST

    • YEAR2004
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £4,500
  • ROLEX DATEJUST 16233

    ROLEX DATEJUST

    • YEAR1991
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSNo
    £5,950
  • ROLEX DATEJUST 41 126334

    ROLEX DATEJUST 41

    • YEAR2022
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £11,750
  • ROLEX DATEJUST 69174

    ROLEX DATEJUST

    • YEAR1985
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSNo
    £4,500
  • ROLEX DATEJUST 69173

    ROLEX DATEJUST

    • YEAR1994
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £4,750
ROLEX SUBMARINER 116619LB

The Rolex Submariner is another fantastic choice when shopping for refurbished Rolex watches. The Submariner is a highly desirable diving watch with a sporty, yet subtle design. The Submariner has various models with depth resistance ranging from 100m to 300m. 

There’s sure to be a style of Submariner that is perfect for you. Please enjoy browsing our current selection of Submariner watches below.

  • ROLEX SUBMARINER 114060

    ROLEX SUBMARINER

    • YEAR2019
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £9,500
  • ROLEX SUBMARINER 126613LB

    ROLEX SUBMARINER

    • YEAR2024
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £14,250
  • ROLEX SUBMARINER 114060

    ROLEX SUBMARINER

    • YEAR2019
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £9,250
  • ROLEX SUBMARINER 16613

    ROLEX SUBMARINER

    • YEAR1998
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSNo
    £8,950
  • ROLEX SUBMARINER 126613LB

    ROLEX SUBMARINER

    • YEAR2021
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £13,700

Another ever-popular choice in the Rolex lineup is the Rolex Daytona. This classic Rolex watch is inspired by the world of racing and motorsports. This watch also touts a sporty design and complications like a chronograph and tachymeter. The watch gets its name from the Daytona International Speedway in Florida. 

As with the other Rolex models on this list, you can find all kinds of different styles, colours and materials in the Rolex Daytona line. Browse our current selection of Rolex Daytona watches in our inventory below.

ROLEX DAYTONA 16523
  • ROLEX DAYTONA 126500LN

    ROLEX DAYTONA

    • YEAR2024
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £29,950
  • ROLEX DAYTONA 16528

    ROLEX DAYTONA

    • YEAR1991
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSNo
    £35,500
  • ROLEX DAYTONA 116523

    ROLEX DAYTONA

    • YEAR2005
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £17,500
  • ROLEX DAYTONA ZENITH 16520

    ROLEX DAYTONA ZENITH

    • YEAR1989
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £27,500
  • ROLEX DAYTONA 116503

    ROLEX DAYTONA

    • YEAR2017
    • BOXYes
    • PAPERSYes
    £16,950

Browse Premium Refurbished Rolex Watches for Sale

Looking for the best refurbished Rolex watches for sale? You’ve come to the right place. At BQ Watches, we pride ourselves on providing an eclectic and vast inventory of pre-owned, refurbished, and vintage luxury watches. You can find Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Cartier, Patek Philippe, Omega and many more watches in our online shop and our London showroom.

If you have something particular in mind, we’re also happy to source a watch for you. Additionally, we offer professional services for repairs, cleanings, appraisals and more. Let us know what service you’re needing and we’d be happy to help. Fill out our contact form below to inquire about service and we’ll be in touch right away.