Rolex vs Pagani - Why I Chose to Spend $1,000–$2,000 on Pagani Design Watches Instead of a $30,000 Rolex
- Joseph Gadol
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
Rolex vs Pagani - Let me start by saying—I admire Rolex. The history, the craftsmanship, the prestige... it’s all impressive. For years, I thought owning a Rolex was the ultimate goal for any watch enthusiast. I even came close to buying one—a beautiful model priced at just over $30,000.
But in the end, I walked away from it. Instead, I decided to build a small collection of Pagani Design watches for a fraction of that price—around $1,000 to $2,000 total.
And you know what? I’ve never looked back.
Rolex vs Pagani - I Got 10 Watches Instead of One
For $30,000, I could have owned one Rolex. And yes, it would have been stunning. But deep down, I knew it would probably spend more time in a box than on my wrist. I’d worry too much about scratching it, losing it, or even just wearing it in public.
With Pagani Design, I was able to buy several different models—homages to the Daytona, Submariner, GMT-Master II, even a Royal Oak-style piece. I now have a watch for every mood and outfit. I wear them all the time without stress. I enjoy them. That, to me, is what collecting is really about.
I Paid for the Watch, Not Just the Name
Let’s be honest—Rolex is expensive partly because of the brand. And there’s nothing wrong with that, but I realized I cared more about the watch itself than the logo on the dial. Pagani Design gives me automatic movements (like the Seiko NH35), sapphire crystals, ceramic bezels, and a solid stainless steel feel—all the specs I wanted, but without the massive price tag.
I’d rather have ten great watches that I love than one I’m scared to wear just because it has a crown on it.
I Actually Wear My Watches Every Day
I used to think that once I owned a Rolex, I’d wear it proudly. But if I’m honest with myself, I’d probably baby it—only bringing it out on special occasions, worrying constantly about damaging it. That’s not how I want to live.
With my Pagani Design watches, I don’t worry. I wear them to work, to dinner, on vacation—even when I’m doing yardwork sometimes. They look fantastic, they feel good on the wrist, and if I ever do scratch one, it’s not the end of the world.
I Discovered What I Really Love About Watches
By spending $1,000–$2,000 on a range of Pagani Design models, I’ve learned so much more about my own taste. I used to think I was a “Submariner guy,” but after wearing a Daytona-style chronograph, I realized I’m actually into racing watches. I even started appreciating dress watches more. If I had spent everything on one Rolex, I would’ve locked myself into one look—and missed out on all of that.
I Chose Joy Over Status
At the end of the day, I asked myself a simple question: Am I buying this watch for me, or for other people to see? If I’m being honest, the Rolex was about status. But Pagani Design? That was 100% for me. I enjoy every piece I own. I get excited about rotating them, matching them with outfits, and just admiring them on my wrist.
It’s not about pretending I have a Rolex—it’s about appreciating watches for what they are, not just what they represent.
Final Thoughts
Would I still love to own a Rolex someday? Sure. But I’m in no rush. Right now, I’ve got a collection of watches I truly enjoy—without the pressure, without the price tag, and without the stress. I spent under $2,000 total, and I feel like I got more value, more variety, and honestly, more fun than I would’ve gotten from one $30,000 watch.
So if you’re on the fence like I was, consider this: You don’t need a Rolex to love watches. You just need to love what you wear. For me, Pagani Design made that possible—and I couldn't be happier.
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