Fake Rolex watches and Rolex watches are the top dogs in the watch industry; they always have been and they always will be, even if they are In 1905, founder Hans Wilsdorf aimed to be number one, and sure enough, Rolex became the brand everyone knew, a sign of doing well.

So, we thought we’d list the top fake Rolex models and the famous faces behind their fame. Brynn Wallner, aka Dimepiece, helped us out. Like Wiz Khalifa says, “Time is money, so it’s time to get a Rolex.”

Men’s Style Redefined: Top Rolex Watches For Men

1. Rolex Oyster Perpetual

The simple yet stunning Oyster has been around since 1926 and might just be the top Rolex out there. It was the first watch that didn’t let water in—kind of like an oyster. The word perpetual came later, meaning Rolex’s self-winding technology. Together, Oyster Perpetual means a watch that stays dry and winds itself on every Rolex watch. But the Oyster Perpetual itself is a sleek, no-date steel watch, coming from the first Oyster. Even in the world of replica watches, the Oyster Perpetual remains a sought-after model.

Got it? Great! Now, the bright, shiny dial OPs that came out in 2020 are a big deal, selling for twice their price in colors like pink, yellow, coral red, and Tiffany Blue (an unofficial name, but we like it). Kendrick Lamar showed off his Tiffany Blue OP at the Grammys, making everyone want one. Dreaming of collecting every color, Rolex just released an OP “Bubble Dial” with all the colors included. Everyone wants them all, including those seeking a super clone version.

2. Rolex Explorer/Explorer II

The Explorer is my pick for the best Rolex sport watch thanks to its simple look. The first version was worn on Everest in 1953. It doesn’t need to show off; it’s already a legend. The black dial with 3-6-9 numbers is clean, looking great whether you’re hiking or just hanging out. Even Ian Fleming, the guy who created James Bond, said a man’s watch tells you a lot about him. So go for what other great men have picked, even if it’s an imitation watch. I’m all for the smaller 36mm version; it’s more subtle and stylish.

3. Rolex GMT-Master II

The GMT-Master II is all about the golden age of flying. Its older sibling was made for PanAm pilots to keep up with changing time zones in 1955. The GMT-Master II came in 1983, better than ever, tracking three time zones. So, even with a phone, having this knock off watch lets you show off your global style.

And about those nicknames—”Coke,” “Pepsi,” “Rootbeer,” “Batman”—they’re all GMT-Master IIs, named for their bezel colors. Last year, Rolex shook things up with a left-handed version called “Destro,” catching the eyes of famous lefties like Russell Westbrook and Declan Rice.

4. Rolex DateJust

The Rolex Datejust might look common, but it’s not to be underestimated. When it appeared in 1945, its date-changing window was groundbreaking. It’s Rolex’s biggest hit, thanks to its simple, iconic look and many styles. The Datejust has a big fan base, from Martin Luther King Jr. to Rihanna and David Beckham, and there are plenty of fake watches mimicking its design.

5.  Rolex Day-Date

In 1957, Rolex brought out the Day-Date, showing not just the date but also the week’s day (hence DAY-DATE), all in precious metals. It’s known as the “President” because people like Lyndon B. Johnson wore it. Today, it’s picked by stars like Drake, Rihanna, and even the Dalai Lama, who sees it as a call to live in the moment. Rolex’s new Day-Date “Emoji” watch adds a fun twist, mixing emojis and positive messages. Even the best super clone watches try to emulate this iconic model.

6.  Rolex Milgauss

In the ’50s, Rolex made a bunch of special watches, like the famous GMT-Master and the Submariner. But there’s one not so well-known called the Milgauss. It didn’t get as famous, maybe because it was made for scientists, not pilots or divers like the others. The Milgauss, born in 1956, was made tough to fight off magnets, which could mess up watch workings, and it could handle up to a thousand units of magnetic force. This was a big deal for people working in labs. Rolex even teamed up with CERN, a big science hub, to check out this watch. This teamwork is still going on.

The first Milgauss looked a bit like the Submariner but had a fun lightning bolt second hand. Over time, it changed looks, like in the ’60s with the plain Milgauss 1019 that folks loved. By 2014, we had the Milgauss ‘Z-Blue’ with its cool blue-green glass. Now, with less flying and more casual wear, maybe it’s time for a watch that celebrates science, like the Milgauss. Tom Hanks, an early fan, seems to think so. And yes, imitation watches are also made to mimic the Milgauss.

 

7.  Rolex Daytona

The Rolex Daytona started off quiet in the ’50s and ’60s before becoming a big deal thanks to its link to race cars and celebrities. At first, Rolex’s chronographs weren’t made with racing in mind. However, in 1962, Rolex got involved in Daytona Speedway racing and a year later came out with the Cosmograph, with a special bezel for measuring speed and bright sub-dials for easy reading while driving. They called it ‘Daytona’ in 1964, and these early versions are now hot items.

The most famous Daytona was owned by Paul Newman, given to him by his wife with a loving note to drive safely. This watch, known for its unique dial, sold for $17.8 million in 2017. Not all Daytonas are that pricey, but they’re still loved by many, like John Mayer and Victoria Beckham. Jay-Z even gave them out instead of VIP passes for a big event. Those who got one then got a deal, as their value has jumped. Naturally, the market for fake Daytonas is booming as well.

8.  Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner was a trailblazer in dive watches, first released in 1953 with the ability to go deep underwater. Jacques Cousteau’s underwater movies helped make diving and the Submariner popular. Though diving isn’t as big now, the Submariner has stayed in the game with updates and new styles.

Some might think the Submariner is too common or “basic.” Theo James played a character in The White Lotus wearing the blue version, which some didn’t like. But big stars like Al Pacino wear it too. So, it’s up to you. If you pick the Submariner, know it has a rich history behind it. Even as a replica, the Submariner remains a favorite.

9.  Rolex Yacht-Master

Back in 1992, Rolex brought out the Yacht-Master, making waves with a watch not for diving but for chilling on yachts. As you might guess from the name, this watch steps it up for those who prefer the deck under their feet over diving deep. It came out in fancy 18KT white gold, a step above the Submariner’s more simple steel look. You can now find it in other rich metals like yellow gold and platinum, like the Yacht-Master II released in 2007. Before he was seen with watches from brands like Breitling, Brad Pitt rocked a Yacht-Master. Charlie Sheen, too (his was the smaller 35mm version), and Nick Jonas were spotted with a custom “Popeye” Yacht-Master designed by Bamford and Darren Romanelli at a basketball game. Fake Rolex Yacht-Masters also strive to capture this blend of luxury and casual style.

10.  Rolex Sky-Dweller

The Rolex Sky-Dweller is a newbie, hitting the scene in 2012. But don’t let its young age fool you; this watch packs a punch with Rolex’s over a century of watch-making smarts. Named for the globetrotter, not pilots, the Sky-Dweller fits today’s world traveler with a dial showing two time zones, perfect for those who jet set rather than fly planes. With its big size of 42mm, matching the then-trendy big watches, it might not fit the current love for smaller, old-school looks. Yet, it still stands as a symbol for those bold enough to wear it. Celebs like Tom Cruise, Jack Harlow, Michael Jordan, and LeBron James wear it with pride. Replica versions of the Sky-Dweller are also in high demand.

11.  Rolex Air-King

The Air-King first took flight in 1958, right after the GMT-Master made its mark. This was when flights were a glam affair. The Air King’s history starts in the 1930s, the dawn of major flight advancements. Its clear dial, with big 3, 6, and 9 numbers, was perfect for pilots. Now, 65 years on, it’s seen many changes but is maybe best known for its link to Domino’s Pizza Rolex watches for top sellers in the company. Back in the ’80s and ’90s, these watches, with an $800 tag, were unique rewards and are now hot items among collectors, sometimes selling for as much as $19K. Fake Rolex Air-Kings are also popular for their unique history and design.

12. Rolex 1908

If you’ve been following along, you might notice these top picks are all about action and tough use. But what if you’re after something more polished? The gone-but-not-forgotten Rolex Cellini is one to think about—or maybe the new Rolex Perpetual 1908, revealed at Watches & Wonders in 2023 and quickly snagged by Roger Federer. Named for the year Rolex became official in Switzerland, the Perpetual 1908 is all about class with a simple, precious metal and leather strap but still has that Rolex touch with a see-through back showing its thin and efficient 7140 movement. The imitation watch market has also seen a rise in interest for the 1908, showcasing its timeless appeal.

Whether you choose an original or a knock off watch, these models are a worthy addition to your collection.