Rolex Oyster celebrates 100 years of waterproof watchmaking innovation

The vintage watch market remains strong in 2026, with collectors placing high value on the history, originality, and specific reference numbers of older timepieces. Determining the value of an inherited or found watch requires careful inspection of the brand, movement, and condition, as heavily polished cases or refinished dials can decrease desirability among serious collectors.

Key models of interest include the Rolex Oyster and the Omega Speedmaster. The Rolex Oyster, introduced in 1926, revolutionized watchmaking by providing a waterproof and dustproof case through a sealed bezel, caseback, and winding crown. This was later enhanced by the 1931 patent of the Perpetual rotor, a self-winding system that allows the watch to wind through the wearer's natural wrist movement.

Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf emphasized real-world testing to prove reliability, such as when swimmer Mercedes Gleitze wore an Oyster while crossing the English Channel in 1927. Other highly collectible vintage families include the Omega Seamaster and Constellation.