5 Most Expensive Rolex Watch Auctions on eBay – July 2025

Every month, Rolex collectors and enthusiasts turn to eBay in search of rare, vintage, and high-value timepieces. July 2025 was no exception, with several auctions that drew serious bidding activity and big price tags. Below are the five most expensive Rolex watch auctions that sold on eBay this month (July, 2025), along with key details and insights into why they commanded the prices they did.

5. Rolex GMT 6542 Bakelite Tropical Gilt Dial Circa 1958

eBay Auction Link: Completed Listing
Final Sale Price: $24,168.81
Auction Ended: Thurs, July 31

Listing Description:

Note “Non-Serious buyers stay away”
Available for sale is “ Vintage Rolex GMT 6542 Bakelite Tropical Gilt Dial 1958 ( Head Only )
The dial is tritium but gilt from mid 1960’s and has gone a beautiful tropical brown colour.
Bakelite is the old 1958 version with Radium still very radio-active

Why it sold for so much:

First GMT-Master Reference: The 6542 was the original GMT-Master, developed in collaboration with Pan Am for pilots—making it a foundational model in Rolex history.

Bakelite Bezel: These fragile, radium-lumed bezels were only produced for a short time before being replaced due to safety concerns and durability issues. Very few have survived intact.

Tropical Gilt Dial: Over time, some black gilt dials age into rich chocolate brown tones, a phenomenon called “tropicalization.” This unpredictable and natural change is prized by collectors for its beauty and uniqueness.

SHOP GMT MASTER ON EBAY

4. Rolex Daytona 18k 116505 eBay Live July 10 7PM Eastern Scrambled Automatic

eBay Auction Link: Completed Listing
Final Sale Price: $32,500
Auction Ended: July 10

Listing Description:

For auction is a very clean Rolex Daytona 116505 18k Rose Gold scrambled serial automatic 40mm. The Good: 1. Firstly the price: this is by many thousands the least expensive 116505 in the market. It will be available on eBay live at auction on July 10th at 7 PM Eastern time. 2. An iconic Daytona that was in the Rolex lineup for many years. The Rose gold with black dial and rose gold subdials is a killer and one of the most standout all gold models. 3. Very clean lightly worn condition, working and functioning correctly. The Bad: 1. Watch only. 2. 11 links in the bracelet.

Why it sold for so much:

Exclusivity and desirability: The Daytona is one of Rolex’s most sought-after models, known for its high demand and limited supply. Also, the use of 18k Everose gold, Rolex’s proprietary blend that resists fading, further elevates its desirability and luxury appeal. The reference was also the first ever rose gold Daytona variant.
Impeccable craftsmanship and reliability: The Daytona 116505 is powered by Rolex’s in-house Caliber 4130, a self-winding chronograph movement known for its accuracy and reliability.
Strong market performance and investment potential: Daytona models, including the 116505, have consistently shown strong market performance, with prices often exceeding their retail value on the secondary market.

SHOP DAYTONA ON EBAY

🥉 3. Rolex Daytona Cosmograph 116520 Oyster Bracelet Black Dial Complete Set

eBay Auction Link: Completed Listing
Final Sale Price: $42,400.00
Auction Ended: Thurs, July 10

Listing Description:

Closure – Folding Oysterclasp
Number of Jewels – 44 Jewels
Bezel Color – Silver
Case Colo – Silver
Dial Color – Black
Case Thickness – 12 mm

Why it sold for so much:
Although this watch was listed as a Ref 116520, it appears to be a ref. 6263 “Big Red” Daytona with a matte black dial.

The Rolex Daytona 6263 “Big Red” is highly prized among collectors due to its iconic matte black dial with the bold red “Daytona” text, which stands out prominently above the subdial. Produced in the late 1970s and early 1980s, this model features the coveted manual-wind Valjoux 727 movement and screw-down pushers, combining vintage charm with racing heritage. Its limited production, connection to Paul Newman-era Daytonas, and bold design make it a grail watch for vintage Rolex enthusiasts.

🥈 2. Rolex Day-Date 228235 Chocolate (40MM)

eBay Auction Link: Listing
Final Sale Price: $47,500
Auction Ended: Wed, July 30

Listing Description:

The product is a Rolex Day-Date 228235 Chocolate 40MM wristwatch with a rose gold bezel, case, and band. This luxury timepiece features a concealed folding crownclasp, a mechanical automatic movement with 31 jewels, and a water resistance of 100 meters. The watch has a solid caseback, baton indexes, and a diagonal motif dial in brown color. It comes with original box and papers, making it a sought-after piece for collectors and watch enthusiasts.

Why it sold for so much:

Model & Reference: Rolex Day-Date 228235 — a modern 40 mm yellow-gold statement piece featuring a rich chocolate sunburst dial with baguette hour markers.
Full Set & Condition: Sold with original box and papers, confirming authenticity and enhancing provenance — a major factor in resale value ebay.com. Also the watch is in excellent condition with no visible customization increases collector appeal.
Premium Materials & Design: The chocolate dial with its diagonal texture and baguette indices adds rarity and aesthetic impact. Crafted from solid 18K yellow gold, the Day-Date in this configuration represents one of Rolex’s most luxurious lines.

🥇 1. 1972 Rolex Vintage Daytona Steel Watch with Black Cosmograph Dial FULL SET

eBay Auction Link: Listing
Final Sale Price: $69,100.00
Auction Ended: Thurs, July 24

Listing Description:

The 1972 Rolex Vintage Daytona Steel Watch with Black Cosmograph Dial is a luxurious timepiece crafted from stainless steel. This classic wristwatch features a round case with a 38mm size, making it a stylish accessory for men. The manual-winding movement and left-handed design add to its unique appeal. This full set includes a certificate of authenticity from Monaco Jewelers, ensuring its authenticity and quality. With its timeless style and Swiss craftsmanship, this Rolex Daytona watch is a must-have for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Why it sold for so much:

Rare left-handed design: The unconventional crown and pushers on the left side make this piece even more distinctive and rare among Daytonas.
Highly collectible vintage model: The stainless‑steel Daytona ref. 6263 is one of the most sought-after references among collectors for its manual-wind chronograph movement and classic styling.
Black tropical dial with strong contrast, originally designed for exceptional legibility — a look that ages beautifully and drives collector desire.
Full-set provenance: This example included a Monaco Jewelers certificate of authenticity, adding vital trust and provenance, which can significantly boost auction prices.

Final Thoughts

The vintage and luxury Rolex market on eBay remains strong, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for standout pieces. Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or new to the game, studying these high-ticket auctions can help you understand trends, spot valuable references, and refine your own collecting strategy.

Want more insights? Check out our full Collector’s Guide to Vintage Rolex Watches for tips on bidding smart and spotting authentic watches.

A few Rolex watches available on eBay that are listed for over $100,000.00