The Rise of Gold Rolex Watches in 2025: Investment, Rarity and Demand

The luxury watch market has entered a golden age… literally. In 2025 gold Rolex models have seen a dramatic surge in popularity, prices and collectability. From vintage icons to modern masterpieces the demand for yellow, white and Everose gold references is reaching new highs.

Heres why now might be the perfect time to invest in a gold Rolex.

Precious Metal, Priceless Value

Gold Rolex watches have always represented the pinnacle of the brands craftsmanship. But in 2025 market dynamics are reinforcing their value in unprecedented ways:

Global gold prices have soared more than 10 percent this year, following a 40 percent rally in 2024.

Rolex gold models like the Day Date 40 Ref. 228235 (Everose gold) and Sky Dweller Ref. 336935 (Everose gold) have seen price hikes of 11.57 percent and 9.26 percent respectively.

On the preowned market, Bloomberg’s Subdial Watch Index shows that gold references are climbing fastest in demand.

Demand is up globally, particularly in the U.S, Middle East and Asia, where luxury buyers are hedging inflation with hard assets like gold watches.

Swiss watch export values increased by 6.4 percent year on year in early 2025, with gold models making up a growing share of total export revenue.

Spotlight Models: The Gold References Leading the Charge

Rolex Day Date 40 Ref. 228235

Crafted in Everose gold with a chocolate sunburst dial and Roman numerals, this model has become one of the most sought after contemporary Day Dates. Worn by global icons, its price jumped from $41,500 in 2024 to $46,300 in 2025. Limited production numbers and consistent celebrity appearances have further enhanced its reputation as a collector grail.

Rolex Sky Dweller Ref. 336935

Featuring an annual calendar and dual time zone functionality, the Everose Sky Dweller delivers both utility and elegance. Its 2025 price tag now stands at $57,800, up from $52,900 in 2024. With Rolexs recent emphasis on high complication models, this Sky Dweller stands out as one of the most practical and luxurious timepieces available.

Rolex Day Date Ref. 228238

This classic yellow gold reference has seen an extraordinary rise in the Bloomberg Subdial Index, jumping 21 spots since 2022. Its refined elegance and popularity among celebrities like Zayn Malik contribute to its appeal & its timeless aesthetic continues to make it a favourite for first time gold watch buyers.

Rolex Day Date Ref. 18038 (Vintage)

An iconic 1980s model with pie pan dials and vintage charm. Gaining 17 spots in market value ranking since 2022, it’s a collector favourite that reflects the resurgence of interest in vintage yellow gold Rolex watches. These watches also represent excellent long term investment opportunities, especially when box and papers are included.

Rolex Datejust Ref. 16233 (Two Tone)

Not entirely gold but still critical to the narrative, this bi metal classic rose 19 places on the Subdial Watch Index. With its timeless champagne dial and jubilee bracelet, the 16233 remains a gateway into precious metal Rolex collecting. Collectors appreciate the balance between dress and sport utility in this reference.

In Stock Now at Kettle Club

We are currently offering a curated selection of gold Rolex watches that align with these market trends:

Rolex 228235 Day Date 40mm Chocolate Dial (2023) – £35,000

Rolex 228238 Day Date 40mm White Dial (2022) – £32,995

Rolex 18238 Day Date 36mm Champagne Dial (1990) – £15,350

Rolex 126715CHNR GMT Master II “Rootbeer” Everose Gold (2022) – £30,500

Rolex 126621 Yacht Master Chocolate Dial (2022) – £13,000

Additional collector favourites in stock at Kettle Club include:

Rolex 116508 Daytona Green Dial “John Mayer” (2023) – £58,500 This yellow gold chronograph with vibrant green dial has become one of the most recognisable and collectible modern Daytonas, often associated with the musician John Mayer.

Rolex 116509 Daytona MOP Diamond Dial (2021) – £35,750 A white gold Daytona featuring a mother of pearl dial and diamond hour markers. It combines sports chronograph functionality with luxurious finishes, appealing to investors and collectors alike.

Rolex 268655 Yacht Master 37mm Everose Gold (2019) – £15,995 Compact and versatile, this Everose Yacht Master features a matte black bezel and luxurious yet understated profile, ideal for everyday wear.

Rolex 116655 Yacht Master 40mm Everose Gold (2018) – £19,500 Combines the elegance of Everose gold with a sporty matte black Cerachrom bezel and Oysterflex rubber strap. A modern expression of Rolexs nautical heritage.

Rolex 126715CHNR GMT Master II Rootbeer (2020) – £28,250 A full Everose gold version of the celebrated Rootbeer GMT, featuring a black and brown ceramic bezel. Rare, desirable and one of the most sought after GMT references in gold.

Why Gold Rolex Watches Are So Hot Right Now

Hedging Against Inflation

Gold is a traditional store of value, and luxury timepieces made from it combine tangible asset security with collector appeal. With inflationary pressures still present in global markets, many buyers are choosing watches that also serve as portable investments.

Celebrity Influence

From Zayn Malik to John Mayer and LeBron James, celebrities are showcasing gold Rolex watches more than ever, influencing a new generation of collectors and boosting resale values.

Global Supply Chain Pressure

Rising tariffs on Swiss exports, including a proposed 32 percent levy from the US, are creating urgency among international buyers. This may result in further price increases across all luxury Swiss watches.

First Run Rarity

With Rolex increasing prices on precious metal models and launching flagship pieces like the Land Dweller, early production runs in gold are expected to be highly coveted. First iterations of a reference often gain cult status among collectors.

Shift Toward Precious Materials

Buyers are increasingly drawn to watches made from tactile, natural materials. Gold is not just a status symbol, it is a statement of timelessness. Coupled with the rise in stone dials and textured cases, full gold references are perfectly positioned to benefit from this design trend.

Auction and Resale Performance

Recent auctions have demonstrated a strong appetite for gold Rolex pieces. Christie’s and Phillips have reported record hammer prices for models such as the Ref. 1803 and Ref. 116508. Some John Mayer Daytonas have sold for over £90,000 in mint condition.

Why Now Might Be the Time to Act

With precious metal prices rising, collector interest increasing and Rolex expanding its offerings in gold, there may never be a better time to consider a gold Rolex. Whether you’re looking for a modern DayDate 40 or a vintage reference with heritage appeal, the team at Kettle Club is here to help.

Our specialists can guide you through the nuances of model selection, authentication and investment strategy. Discover our full selection or contact us directly for tailored advice.