A faded, or ghost, bezel is due to a defect in pre-Cerachrom bezels produced by Rolex on their popular tool watches: the Submariner, GMT-Master, and the Sea-dweller. This rare, and desirable, defect is caused by a number of issues including age, amount of time spent in the sun, and rubbing against clothing.

Although ghost bezels can be rather common when it comes to vintage Rolex sports watches, the ones in true collector-worthy condition are legitimately rare, and they are often accompanied by a significant price premium on the open market.

Mar 23, 2025 · What is your opinion of ghost bezels/faded bezels? Personally I think it adds a lot of character to the watch and I tend to look for them in 5 digits. Hence my 16710 having a ghost bezel.

In the spirit of spooky season, we’ve compiled the most hauntingly beautiful Rolex watches for Halloween. From unique faded ghost bezels to deep orange “pumpkin” patina and spider dials, each watch is creepy and charming in its own remarkable way.

One vintage Rolex Submariner that has unique qualities is the Submariner Ghost Bezel reference 5513. The reference 5513 was introduced in 1962 and produced for almost 30 years. If you’re unfamiliar with the term ghost bezel, this is a faded bezel due to a defect that occurred in pre-Cerachrom bezels on various Rolex watches.

Fantastic “ghost” bezel because its color has organically faded to a uniform and pleasing gray from the original black color. Generously domed acrylic crystal, count-down bezel which is revolving smoothly with just the right amount of resistance, perfectly operating screw down Trip-Lock crown and the innovation that defines the Sea-Dweller ...

Termed "ghost bezels" due to their spectral and faded appearance, these vintage Submariners have become prized possessions among those who appreciate the marriage of history, craftsmanship, and the subtle beauty of time's indelible mark on these iconic timepieces.

Apr 9, 2024 · The new Rolex GMT-Master II 126710 makes the half-ghost bezel accessible, in theory Buffy Acacia. While many fans expected a Coke bezel, Rolex goes with a ghosty black and grey for the new GMT-Master II.

A very fine condition example vintage Rolex Submariner ref# 1680 circa 1978. Featuring a never polished case with thick and beefy lugs, acrylic crystal, bi-directional elapsed time ghost bezel and very pleasing matte black dial with untouched ivory colored tritium hour markers.

This Rolex "Kermit" Ghost Bezel 16610T is in good, original condition w/ signs of wear, has not been refinished and is made of stainless steel. The watch comes with a green insert bezel which has faded over the years and is now considered a "ghost bezel".