Which Rolex Watches Can You Actually Buy At Retail?

We all know which Rolex models are hard to get. Just walk into any authorized dealer and ask for a steel GMT-Master II or Daytona—you’ll likely get the same answer: "we don’t have any in stock but we’d be happy to register your interest."

It's no secret that steel sports models like the Submariner ref. 124060 are elusive, with lengthy waitlists that often feel endless. But this article isn’t about what you can’t buy. Instead, I want to focus on something more encouraging: the Rolex watches you can actually walk into a store and purchase without waiting forever.

Thanks to a drastic correction in demand and a slow increase in production, Rolex’s apparent supply seems to be improving, and several models have become easier to obtain at retail. Let’s take a look at which models you stand a reasonable chance of buying today, even with little to no purchase history.

Submariner Date 126610LN

While the Submariner–that is, the one without a date complication–remains one of the hardest Rolex models to get your hands on, the Submariner Date, especially the classic black-on-black reference (126610LN), is now increasingly available. We know from Rolex’s recent Submariner book that Submariner Date production more than doubles that of the Submariner (No-Date), but we’re now actually starting to see it.

Submariner 41mm on Everest Curved End Rubber Strap

According to multiple Rolex ADs (I called while researching this article) as well as my colleagues at Everest, we’re seeing authorized dealers delivering these models more frequently than the past four years, and while it may help to have some history with your AD, the wait times are notably shorter compared to the steel GMTs and Daytonas.

Another option is the green bezel Submariner, often referred to as the "Kermit" (126610LV). While this model might be slightly more challenging to source than its all-black counterpart, it’s still within reach if you’re patient. Again, Rolex’s Submariner book showed us that the Kermit is far from rare, with nearly a quarter million units produced and counting.

Precious Metal Submariners

Image Source: Bachmann & Scher 

In contrast to their stainless steel siblings, some precious metal Submariners are easier to find at retail. You’d probably assume that the higher price tags of a gold Submariners would make them harder to come by, but in fact, it’s the steel models that people clamor for the most.

The white gold Submariner (126619LB) “Cookie Monster”, with its striking blue bezel, offers an elevated take on Rolex’s most iconic dive watch, and it’s often more readily available than its steel counterpart. If you’ve got the budget, enjoy a polished center link, and want to skip the waiting game, going for a precious metal Submariner could be your best bet.

Datejust 41 on Oyster Bracelet

The Rolex Datejust collection spans a vast range of sizes, materials, and dial variations, but the 41mm model on an Oyster bracelet is one of the more accessible Rolex watches at retail today. While the fluted bezel-Jubilee bracelet configuration remains the popular choice—and, therefore, harder to get—the simpler Oyster bracelet version (particularly with a smooth bezel) is often in stock or available with minimal waiting.

Day-Date 36

Image Source: Petite Geneve Petrovic

The Rolex Day-Date is one of the most iconic watches of all time. The fluted bezel and bullet “President” bracelet is both quintessentially Rolex and immediately recognizable from across a room. While the larger 40mm Day-Date remains highly sought after, the 36mm versions, particularly the stone dial and diamond-set variants, are more frequently available at authorized dealers.

Many modern buyers gravitate toward the larger 40mm case, leaving the 36mm—the original diameter—slightly more accessible. If you’re after a more traditional size for the Day-Date, you might be in luck if you visit your local AD.

Steel vs. Precious Metals: The Ironic Truth

Image Source: Bob's Watches

One of the great ironies in Rolex’s availability landscape is that the steel models—considered more wearable “everyday” watches—are much harder to get than their precious metal counterparts. Historically, less expensive stainless steel was used for its durability, practicality, and of course, cost, but in recent years, it’s become the most desirable material among collectors. The result? Gold Rolex models (less so platinum), which come with much heftier price tags, are often easier to find in stores than their steel equivalents.

The New GMT-Master II "Bruce Wayne" (126720VTNR)

Finally, we should mention the new kid on the block: the grey-and-black GMT-Master II, often referred to as the "Bruce Wayne" (126720VTNR). While it hasn’t been around long enough to gauge true availability, this model is ostensibly positioned as the entry-level GMT-Master II, which should, in theory, make it easier to buy compared to its ‘Pepsi’ or ‘Batman’ counterparts.

The reality is, they’re definitely being delivered to customers (like N.O.R.E.), but it’s still too early to tell just how easy—or hard—it will be to obtain in the long run. For now, if you're looking for a GMT-Master and are open to this new colorway, you might have a better chance than with the more established references.

Final Thoughts

While many Rolex models still require a frustrating amount of patience, it’s refreshing to see that some are becoming more readily available. Whether you’re after a Submariner Date, a Day-Date 36, or a precious metal variation of an iconic sports watch, there are still plenty of excellent Rolex options out there for those unwilling to endure the infamous waitlists.

What do you think? Will these watches continue to become more available, or are we still far from finding Rolexes in the display case again? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below and if you’re looking to customize your Rolex, check out our selection of Curved End (integrated) straps for Rolex watches.

Header Image Source: Swiss Watch & Diamond Exchange