Among all the gold Rolex watches ever made, the solid yellow gold versions are perhaps the most “Rolex” of them all. Few watchmakers can make gold watches as well as Rolex and they are the ultimate status symbol. For the savvy shoppers, here are our top picks for the best men’s yellow gold Rolex watches starting from $11,500.
Yellow Gold Rolex Watch Day-Date 36 18038
The brand’s flagship status watch, the Rolex Day-Date is oftentimes simply referred to as the “President” watch. Exclusively crafted in precious metals such as gold and platinum, yellow gold versions of the Day-Date are the most popular of them all.
Flaunting a 36mm Oyster case, the famous President bracelet with semi-circular links, scratch resistant sapphire crystal, and the practical quickset date feature, the vintage Day-Date 36 18038 offers a fantastic way to wear a solid yellow gold Rolex dress watch for around $11,500.
Yellow Gold Rolex Yacht-Master 40 16628
If you prefer a sportier version of a solid yellow gold Rolex watch, there’s the Rolex Yacht-Master. Featuring a yellow gold 40mm Oyster case, rotating yellow gold bezel with raised numerals, a yellow gold Oyster bracelet, and large luminescent details on the dial, the Yacht-Master ref. 16628 flawlessly balances the look of a Rolex sports watch with the alluring style of precious gold.
While the Yacht-Master ref. 16628 is no longer in production, you can pick one up from the pre-owned market for less than $17,000. The versions with the champagne dial are particularly attractive, emphasizes the all-gold design of this precious Rolex sports watch.
Yellow Gold Rolex Daytona 116518
It’s no secret that yellow gold Rolex watch Daytona chronographs are expensive watches. After all, the Daytona is the most famous luxury chronograph watch of them all. Featuring basically the same look since its debut in 1963, a Rolex Daytona—regardless of what material or production era—can be spotted from a mile away. And throw in precious gold material and you’ve got a pricey Rolex watch to contend with.
However, the Rolex Daytona ref. 116518 is a less expensive version of the popular chronograph watch since it is fitted with a leather strap. Opting for an elegant black leather strap attached the solid yellow gold 40mm Oyster case not only take away a handful of dollars from the price tag, it also makes the just-above $17,000 gold Daytona a lot lighter to wear.
Yellow Gold Rolex Submariner 16618
While the Submariner began its life as a Rolex stainless steel tool watch built for scuba divers, the brand eventually made more luxurious versions in both two-tone steel and gold, as well as full gold versions.
Take for example this Rolex Submariner ref. 16618 fashioned almost entirely in yellow gold. Although it’s unlikely this watch will ever go diving, it’s still built to be dive watch, therefore the 40mm Oyster case waterproof to 1,000 feet features a unidirectional aluminum dive bezel in black.Plus, there’s also the gold Oyster bracelet with a diver’s extension. For just above $17,500, you can own one of Rolex’s most famous watches in one of the world’s most prized metals.
Today, solid yellow gold Rolex watches start well beyond $20,000 at retail. So choosing a pre-owned men’s yellow gold Rolex watch saves you plenty of money, while still providing a wide range of models to choose from.
