Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s Gold Rolex Oyster Perpetual — $440,000
The 13th most expensive Rolex watch in the world in our list is the Gold Oyster Perpetual that was once owned by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first president of India, hence the name. Aside from its jaw-dropping estimated value of $444,000, this elegant timepiece also has a rich story that comes with it and how it came into being.
Rolex had custom made the Gold Oyster Perpetual for Dr. Prasad in 1950 to commemorate India’s first Republic Day. Some say that this special wristwatch was given to the president as an inauguration gift.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s Gold Oyster Perpetual is completely made of 18-karat pink gold. The watch’s custom dial in black and blue features a map of undivided India. It also displays January 26, 1950, India’s first constitutional day, etched across it.
In 2011, this exorbitant priced Rolex watch was supposed to be put up for the Sotheby’s auction for important timepieces that belonged to well-known leaders from around the world after World War 1. However, the Indian government stepped in on Prasad family’s stead.
Apparently, the historical watch was reportedly stolen in 1964 and made its way back to Geneva, Switzerland 47 years later. Sotheby’s had to postpone the auction while the authorities do their investigation on the theft case.
In addition, there are two more Rolex timepieces worth mentioning here. First is Steve McQueen’s Rolex Submariner, which costs about $234,000. This invaluable watch debuted in the year 1967. The fans of the iconic actor saw him wearing this piece named after him in the 1971 movie, Le Mans.
The other one is the Rolex Platinum Pearlmaster 18956 that has a price of $276,000. This Rolex watch is ultra-rare in contrast to the brand’s image of understated elegance.
The Platinum Pearlmaster 18956 wristwatch is bedazzled with real diamonds encrusted lavishly in its platinum case and bracelet. The watch has a total of 71 baguette diamonds and inner bezel engraving.
So, there you have the list of the most expensive Rolex watches in the world. As it appears, Rolex is simply synonymous to extravagant luxury that only a privileged few can afford in a lifetime.
