Rolex 124300 vs 134300: Which Oyster Perpetual Should You Buy?

The development of Rolex’s entry-level luxury watch lineup shows an interesting shift between models 124300 and 134300. The vibrant Oyster Perpetual 41 (reference 124300) made waves in the market after its 2020 launch. Secondary market prices soared between $8,000 and $25,000+, far above its retail price of $5,900-$6,500. Rolex discontinued this popular model in 2025 and brought in the updated reference 134300. The new model’s retail price stood at $6,500 with secondary market values ranging from $9,500 to $20,000.

Both Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 versions share similar proportions on paper—41mm diameter and 11.6mm thickness. The newer 134300’s updates include a subtly revised case design and a slimmer Oysterclasp. The most notable changes appear in the dial options. The 124300’s high-gloss lacquer dials came in bold colors like Turquoise, Coral Red, and Yellow. Its successor, the 134300, features softer, matte lacquered finishes in lavender, sandy beige, and pistachio green. The Oyster Perpetual remains one of the more available entry points into the Rolex brand. This comparison proves valuable to anyone who wants to think over their first luxury timepiece or expand their collection.

Design Evolution: From 124300 to 134300

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 reference 134300 brings several subtle yet meaningful design improvements to its predecessor. These updates show Rolex’s dedication to gradual refinement rather than dramatic changes, with key improvements in ergonomics and esthetics.

Case Profile: Thicker Lugs vs Slimmer Contours

Both the 124300 and 134300 share similar measurements on paper – a 41mm diameter and 11.6mm thickness. The wearing experience is different from the previous model. The 134300’s lugs are slimmer and more contoured compared to the thicker, blockier profile of the 124300. The new model also features a slightly thinner bezel while keeping its polished finish and domed profile. These changes create an elegant silhouette that sits better on the wrist.

Crown Size: Standard vs Enlarged Twinlock

The most noticeable change between these two references lies in their crown designs. The 134300 comes with a larger screw-down Twinlock crown, which makes daily winding and adjustments more comfortable. This practical improvement gives users better control during regular use. The difference becomes more apparent when looking at the watch from its side.

Clasp Design: Wider vs Slimmer Ergonomic Clasp

The Oyster bracelet keeps its core material composition and link structure across both models. The clasp has received a notable upgrade in the 134300. This version comes with a slimmer Oysterclasp that offers better ergonomics and a more comfortable fit. Both models retain the useful 5mm Easylink extension system for quick adjustments throughout the day. The 134300’s refined clasp works with the case redesign to create a more sophisticated look.

These design improvements showcase Rolex’s approach to steady development rather than revolutionary change.

Dial Esthetics and Color Options

The biggest difference between Rolex Oyster Perpetual 124300 and 134300 lies in their dial esthetics. These changes show a radical alteration in Rolex’s visual approach to their entry-level timepiece.

Glossy vs Matte Lacquer: Finish Comparison

The 124300 displayed high-gloss lacquer or sunray finished dials that created dramatic light reflections. The 134300 brought a completely new matte lacquer finish to Rolex’s current catalog in 2025. This groundbreaking finish combines six layers of lacquer applied in a controlled-atmosphere environment that requires careful varnishing and polishing. These matte dials absorb light rather than reflect it and create a softer visual texture.

Color Palette: Turquoise, Coral vs Pistachio, Beige

The 124300 came with vibrant, saturated colors including the popular Turquoise Blue (nicknamed “Tiffany”), Coral Red, and Yellow. Rolex discontinued many of these bold dials quickly, with Coral Red and Yellow leaving production by 2022. The 134300 welcomes a softer esthetic with pastel tones like Pistachio Green and Beige. These subdued colors match current trends toward muted palettes and provide a more refined look. Collectors have already made Pistachio Green their standout favorite.

Dial Carryovers: Silver Dial in Both Models

All but one of these dials changed during the transition from 124300 to 134300 – the silver sunray-finished dial with yellow gold accents remained. This classic option keeps its sunray brushing technique that creates delicate light reflections and a subtle glow as the wrist moves. Rolex’s decision to keep this particular configuration maintains continuity between generations for collectors who prefer a traditional esthetic.

Technical Specs and Wearability

The Oyster Perpetual lineup has received esthetic updates, but the technical foundations of both 124300 and 134300 models stay largely the same, with some tweaks that make them easier to wear.

Movement: Caliber 3230 in Both Models

Both generations employ Rolex’s in-house Caliber 3230 movement. This self-winding mechanical powerhouse delivers similar performance in both references and provides about 70 hours of power reserve. Rolex introduced this movement in 2020 with their patented Chronergy escapement made of nickel-phosphorus that resists magnetism. The blue Parachrom hairspring and high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers are standard features in both versions. Your timekeeping will be excellent with either model.

Bracelet and Clasp: Similar Structure, Better Fit

The three-piece link Oyster bracelet’s core design remains unchanged between generations. Both versions feature corrosion-resistant Oystersteel construction and include the practical Easylink 5mm comfort extension. The main difference shows up in the clasp – the 134300’s slimmer, more ergonomic Oysterclasp fits more naturally against your wrist. This refinement improves daily comfort without sacrificing the bracelet’s renowned durability.

Wrist Presence: Blocky vs Refined Feel

These timepieces feel quite different on the wrist. The 124300 shows off a broader, more substantial presence. The 134300 takes a different approach with a balanced, elegant profile thanks to its new proportions. The newer model feels more sophisticated while keeping the same 41mm diameter.

Market Value and Investment Potential

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 models each offer unique investment opportunities with their own market dynamics and value.

Retail Pricing: $5,900–$6,500 vs $6,500

The price development between generations reveals Rolex’s strategy clearly. The 124300 (2020-2024) sold between $5,900 and $6,500 before discontinuation. This made it one of the most available entry points into Rolex ownership. The new 134300 (2025-Present) starts at $6,500. This matches Rolex’s yearly price increases of around 4%. European buyers pay €6,700 for the 134300, which keeps prices balanced across major markets.

Secondary Market Trends: $8K–$25K vs $9.5K–$20K

Both watches sell well above their retail prices. The discontinued 124300 sells between $8,000 and $25,000+, with dial colors affecting prices heavily. The 134300, barely a year old, already sells between $9,500 and $20,000 on the secondary market. Market data shows the 134300 sells 71.9% above its retail price. This is a big deal as it means that regular Rolex models only sell 13.2% above retail. The 134300’s first-year market volatility sits at 19.4%, which suggests strong but developing market position.

Collectibility: Discontinued Dials vs New Pastels

Each model offers something unique to collectors. The 124300’s bright dials—particularly Turquoise Blue, Coral Red, and the Celebration multicolor version—have become modern classics. Some discontinued colors sell for 2-3 times their retail price. The 134300’s pastel colors create their own investment appeal, with the Pistachio version leading the pack. Collectors see the 134300 as a complement to the 124300, not competition. This has helped raise the 124300’s status among collectors.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

The choice between these two Rolex Oyster Perpetual models boils down to style priorities and investment potential. The 124300 makes a bold statement with its chunky case profile and bright, glossy dials. The 134300 takes a more subtle approach with slimmer lugs and soft, matte colors.

Look under the hood and you’ll find these watches are technically similar. Each one runs on the Caliber 3230 movement with a 70-hour power reserve and Rolex’s signature precision. The performance shouldn’t sway your decision either way.

The investment angle adds another layer to think about. The discontinued 124300s, especially those with rare dials in Turquoise Blue and Coral Red, have become 2-year old collectibles that fetch high prices. The newer 134300 series shows promise in the market too, with the Pistachio Green version leading the pack.

New Rolex buyers might lean toward the 134300. Its comfortable fit and modern colors are a great combination. Serious collectors could find the discontinued 124300 dials more attractive since their values keep climbing.

These watches are both excellent ways to start your Rolex journey. The 124300 has earned its place as a modern classic with its confident design. The 134300 shows Rolex’s steadfast dedication to progress and refinement. Your style, comfort priorities, and investment goals should guide you to the right choice between these exceptional timepieces.