Why You Should Still Pay Attention to Models Discontinued Long Ago

This article is a continuation from ‘Which Watch Prices Will Rise?’ In the previous article I introduced models that were discontinued relatively recently. This time I would like to focus on models that have been out of production for more than ten years. These are models that have become more difficult to acquire and the joy is even greater when you come across a great piece. If you are new to Rolex you may find these models unfamiliar. Above all they are hard to find so you may not feel much interest. However if you are tired of common watches I recommend you take an interest in the models introduced here. These are watches you should always be happy to encounter whenever you see them.

Submariner Green
Ref. 16610LV (Kermit)

ⓒ watchcollectors

Production period: 2003~2010
First released in 2003 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner this model is one of those that benefited greatly over time after being discontinued. It was the first Submariner to use a green color and ironically it was not very popular during its official sales period but after production ended in 2010 it was reevaluated and joined the ranks of premium models. In 2020 with the release of the similar Submariner Green Ref. 126610 (Starbucks) it began to attract attention again and was once more highly regarded. There are various features depending on the year of production so it is fun to compare them. Some collectors even focus on collecting only Ref. 16610LV by year so I encourage you to take an interest.

Submariner Date 16610LV

40mm, Black, Oyster

Submariner Date 116610LV

40mm, Green, Oyster

Submariner Date 126610LV

41mm, Black, Oyster

Daytona
Ref. 116520

ⓒ Subdial

Production period: 2000~2016
This is the Daytona Ref. 116520 which was discontinued relatively recently. From the moment it was released it has attracted great attention and has remained a highly sought-after model for 22 years. Sometimes with the release of a new Daytona I imagine what it would be like if it had a steel bezel. If that happens the value of this Daytona Ref. 116520 would inevitably rise as well. Since it was produced for a long time there are various variations depending on the year of production. Prices also vary so it is essential to build up your knowledge.

Daytona 116520

40mm, Black, Oyster

Daytona 116520

40mm, White, Oyster

Explorer 1
Ref. 114270

ⓒ Watchclub

Production period: 2001~2010
Just as the Submariner Ref. 16610LV (Kermit) and Ref. 126610LV (Starbucks) are similar with a black dial and green bezel the Explorer Ref. 114270 was also reevaluated with the release of the new Explorer Ref. 124270 in 36mm. Thanks to its compact size and light weight it is often called the ‘final version of the Explorer’ as a practical watch. The price has also remained stable. While it is still relatively easy to find in the domestic market if you expect the secondary market to mature further it is certain that it will gradually disappear. As time adds to its unchanging value demand will only increase.

Explorer 1 114270

36mm, Black, Oyster

Explorer 1 124270

36mm, Black, Oyster

The models introduced today are even more special in that they have entered a stable price range and do not experience significant price drops. While there are certainly advantages to watches whose prices rise dramatically I also think it is more difficult to be recognized for their value while not fluctuating wildly.