There have always been two distinct sides of Rolex; on one side are the practical tool watches developed to serve specific purposes and on the other are the ultra-luxurious timepieces that signal personal success and prestige. And among the latter group, there’s no bigger statement-maker than a diamond Rolex watch. Along with developing enduring watch designs and manufacturing excellent mechanical movements, Rolex is also recognized for its impressive gem-setting techniques. Bejeweled Rolex watches run the gamut from a handful of diamond hour markers on the dial to diamond-set bezels to fully diamond pavé models. Diamond Rolex dials are sometimes referred to as “Serti dials,” taken from the French word “sertissage,” which translates to “gem-setting.” So if you are looking for some extra sparkle for your wrist, here is our guide to popular diamond Rolex models.

One of the appeals of the Datejust collection is the diverse assortment available with a wide selection of case sizes, metal options, bracelet styles, and dial colors. What’s more, Rolex makes plenty of diamond Datejust models too for those looking for something extra special. Depending on the size, gem-set Datejust watches can come with diamond hour markers, diamond-set bezels, or both. Furthermore, select gold Datejust models have full diamond pavé dials including some intricately designed ones with delicate motifs such as butterflies and flowers. Given that there are quite a few stainless steel Datejust models fitted with diamond dials, these are the most affordable options when looking for diamond Rolex models.

One of the appeals of the Datejust collection is the diverse assortment available with a wide selection of case sizes, metal options, bracelet styles, and dial colors. What’s more, Rolex makes plenty of diamond Datejust models too for those looking for something extra special. Depending on the size, gem-set Datejust watches can come with diamond hour markers, diamond-set bezels, or both. Furthermore, select gold Datejust models have full diamond pavé dials including some intricately designed ones with delicate motifs such as butterflies and flowers. Given that there are quite a few stainless steel Datejust models fitted with diamond dials, these are the most affordable options when looking for diamond Rolex models.

The Pearlmaster collection is Rolex’s line of jewelry watches fashioned from 18k gold—yellow gold, white gold, and Everose gold—and always set with diamonds, whether on the dial, bezel, case, bracelet, or all of the above. The watch takes its name from the five-link Pearlmaster bracelet and similar to the Datejust, it has a date window on the dial accompanied by a Cyclops date magnification lens on the sapphire crystal. While there are some Pearlmaster models with only a touch of diamonds, the most coveted versions are the opulent ones completely blanketed in diamonds from top to bottom. As a result of the precious metal and generous diamond embellishment, Pearlmaster watches are some of the most expensive ladies’ diamond Rolex models ever made.

Perhaps the most famous chronograph in the world, the Rolex Daytona is known for its sporty looks and impeccable performance. Rolex also makes some decadent diamond Daytona models with gem-set bezels and dials. For instance, there’s the platinum Daytona model that replaces the familiar tachymeter scale with a bezel set with baguette diamonds with a matching diamond pavé dial. Then there are the famous wildcat-style diamond Daytonas, starting with the Daytona “Leopard” from the early 2000s to the newer “Eye of the Tiger” Daytona released in 2019—both flaunting plenty of diamonds and animal print dials. Finally, the Daytona “Rainbow” models available in white, yellow, and Everose gold have been exceedingly popular, featuring diamond-set cases and multi-colored sapphire bezels. There are, however, more discreet choices within the Daytona collection with select models, such as two-tone editions or full gold models, offering just a dash of diamonds on the dial in the form of hour markers.

One of the defining elements of the Rolex GMT-Master II pilot’s watch is the rotating bezel with 24-hour markings to indicate a second time zone. Yet, Rolex also makes some special edition bejeweled GMT-Master II models that feature gems on the bezel rather than the typical Arabic numerals. Cleverly, some of these GMT-Master gem-set bezels uses an assortment of precious stones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies to mimic the look of the iconic white, blue, and red “Pepsi” bezel found on regular GMT-Master models. The most expensive Rolex watch ever made is the GMT-Master “Ice”, entirely covered in diamonds and recently spotted on the wrist of soccer phenom, Ronaldo. On the other end of the spectrum, the most affordable way to wear a diamond Rolex GMT-Master is to source a vintage model in two-tone steel and gold with a “Serti Dial” furnished with diamond hour markers.

Whether as a sports watch or a dress watch, diamond Rolex models have always been a popular luxury timepiece option. Pairing the lavishness of diamonds with the performance of a Rolex watch is an appealing proposition that’s hard to resist.

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