Starting a vintage Rolex watch collection can be a daunting task. When you start, your eyes are fixed on the awesome, big-money pieces you hope to own one day. You dream of scooping up a piece at a house auction and buying it for a bargain or investing big in a piece like a Paul Newman Daytona. 
But the joy of watch collecting, especially vintage copy watches, is investing in pieces you love, can wear, and hold their value. Here, we’ve handpicked a few vintages from Bob’s vault that make great entry-level pieces. They are all in excellent condition and are classics with universal appeal.
This vintage Rolex President 1803 is the perfect starting point for any beginner. Also known as the DayDate, this classic formal watch should be a staple in any collection. But what we love about this 1803 is its “pie plate” dial. The unique face makes this watch a great addition to your collection, as it is a staple model with an ironic twist that is sure to add value to your watch box.
We also love the 36mm yellow gold case and the serrated bezel of this watch, which stands out against the dark face. A classic watch, this mid-1970s fake Rolex gold vintage date watch is another great starting point for collectors. In addition, the universal size of 34mm wears very well on the wrist and will have universal appeal if you decide to sell it and upgrade it.
You don’t have to start your collection with a timeless classic. You can also easily invest in an innovative timepiece. What we like about this GMT-Master 16753 is that this watch is as cool and functional today as it was when it was produced in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Equipped with an automatic movement made for pilots in collaboration with Panamax, this watch keeps two time zones and military time. The oyster case also means it can withstand high altitudes and deep seas.
The watch is also attractive to look at. We love the two-tone 14k yellow gold and stainless steel case and strap. The black two-way bezel also matches the black face, and those luminous tritium hour markers are as visible in the cockpit as they are to the curious onlooker. With a look and feel like this, this 16753 will soon be the watch you buy to collect but wear (and enjoy) every day – as you should.
It wasn’t until 1970 that they started writing feet first, as they did with this one, to show how early and special this imitation watch was. Otherwise, the case and dial are in excellent condition, as are the markers and matching cream-colored hands, which have aged beautifully over the years. It’s also important to note the fat front bezel, which has faded to this wonderful gray color and may one day fade completely and become a ghost – which will certainly increase your value.