Should You Give a Rolex as a Gift? We discuss the pros and cons.

In case you missed it, last year we shared a story titled “My Son’s First Rolex – The Gift of a Lifetime.” It was a personal reflection on what it meant to pass a Rolex down to the next generation, and how a watch can become a symbol of encouragement, family, and shared history. That piece struck a chord because it wasn’t really about a watch at all — it was about intention.

This year, we’re stepping back from the personal story and asking a bigger question: should you give a Rolex as a gift? It’s a question many collectors, parents, partners, and enthusiasts consider at some point. A Rolex carries a weight that few other gifts do, and that weight deserves some thought before the box is wrapped.

A Rolex can be a profoundly awesome gift because it represents permanence and achievement. More than almost any other gift, it feels built to outlast us. When you present someone with a Rolex, you’re giving them something that won’t go out of style, won’t easily break, and won’t lose its symbolism as the years pass. It marks a milestone, signals a belief in someone’s future, or commemorates an accomplishment. Those who have given or received one know the emotional impact it can have. As we saw in last year’s story, that moment of seeing someone’s face light up can become one of those memories that stays with you forever.

However, that level of significance means the decision shouldn’t be taken lightly. A Rolex is not an everyday gift; it’s an investment on multiple levels. The financial aspect is obvious, but there’s also the emotional weight it carries. Giving something so substantial can unintentionally create expectations or shift the dynamics of a relationship. And as last year’s article wisely acknowledged, a Rolex is not a shortcut to connection. It can’t fix a relationship or replace the work that goes into building one. The gift only has meaning when the intention behind it is clear and genuine.

It’s also worth thinking about whether the recipient is ready — not in age, necessarily, but in the relationship you have with them. So much of the decision rests on understanding why you want to give the watch, who you’re giving it to, and what the moment represents. To me, that may be the single most important question you have to ask yourself before giving a gift with such significance.

To be honest, I think giving a Rolex could be a bad idea. It also could be a freaking great idea! The real question is not whether you can afford it financially, but whether the relationship you have with the person can grow from giving them such an overwhelming gift. If you think it can, do it. If you’re not sure, then do not.

This particular article is written a few days before Thanksgiving 2025. So, when you are with that special person at the dinner table, ask yourself: are they ready, and are you ready to give them something that will forever bond your relationship? Also, don’t forget to give them a hug while you’re at it.