In the previous Watches & Wonders Special Part 1 we predicted the new releases of Rolex’s signature models Daytona Submariner and GMT Master 2. When new watches are introduced it is only natural that some models are discontinued. Rolex often announces discontinuations in a rather unkind way (they simply disappear from the website).
The reason why discontinued watches matter is mainly because they have a significant impact on prices in the secondary market. In Part 2 of W&W we will predict what changes might occur excluding the popular models discussed last time.

The Icon of Discontinuation and Revival Milgauss

Milgauss is currently produced in two models under the Ref. 116400GV lineup. The GV lineup, Which began in 2007 with the “Intense Black” dial version, Has maintained the same reference for 16 years. Watch communities around the world are voicing that it is time for a generational change. The key point is how long the green-tinted sapphire glass, Unique to Milgauss, Will be maintained.

ⓒ Rolex

Currently on the official Rolex website a model similar to the previously produced Ref. 6541 is featured in a video, Leading to speculation that a return to the past may be in store. If the Milgauss is equipped with a rotating bezel and black dial inspired by the first production model Ref. 6541, It could become a popular product. As a model that has repeatedly experienced discontinuation and revival with significant price fluctuations in the secondary market, Expectations are high this time as well. If you are curious about the turbulent history of Milgauss, Reading the previous magazine may be helpful.

Milgauss 116400GV

40mm intense black oyster

Milgauss 116400GV

40mm Z-Blue oyster

The Ever-Evolving Explorer

The Submariner is not the only watch celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2023. The Explorer, Which conquered the Everest mountain range, Is also a long-lived model turning 70 this year. The Explorer, Which returned in 2021 with the new reference Ref. 124270, Is expected to stay with us for a while. However, The yellow gold Rolesor model Ref. 124273, Released at the same time, Has received a relatively lukewarm market response, So there are rumors that another alloy model may replace it for the 70th anniversary.

As mentioned previously, Titanium, Which is becoming a trend in the watch industry, Is not unfamiliar to Rolex. Last year, The Deepsea Challenge was suddenly released with a titanium case back, And leaked photos of a prototype Yacht-Master stirred up the community. Some fans argue that the Explorer’s simple design makes it suitable as a test model and a prime candidate for mass production. There are bold predictions about whether titanium watches will really expand, Or even the addition of a white dial, Which has never been attempted on the Explorer 1.

Explorer 1 124270

36mm black oyster

Explorer 1 124273

36mm black oyster

The Revival or Extinction of Classic Watches
Cellini

Cellini, The only current Rolex model with a leather strap, Does not seem to be a favorite for everyone. Some consumers are not even aware of its existence, Overshadowed by the popular professional lineup and the variety and sales volume of Datejust.

ⓒ Swisswatchexpo

However, The history of Cellini is not that short. Born in the 1960s, It appeared several times with various lineups, Including time, Date, Dual time in 2014, And finally the moonphase in 2017. Currently, Only the moonphase remains, With all others discontinued.

Since the image that comes to mind with “Rolex” is a robust and clearly purposed sports watch, Cellini has always been considered a marginal presence in the Rolex catalog and is often mentioned when discussing discontinuation.
Unlike the main voices predicting discontinuation, There are still a few who have not given up hope for a new lineup. As a dress watch with a high degree of design freedom, It could be seen as an opportunity to expand the catalog. Will Cellini have time to reorganize this year?

Cellini Moonphase 50535

39mm white strap

For those who love Rolex, Big events like Watches & Wonders do not come often. Perhaps that is why the excitement for predicting this year’s new releases and discontinuations is growing. Although not all could be introduced, There are bold predictions about the discontinuation of still-popular lineups such as the olive green Day-Date 40 Ref. 228235 or the so-called Hulktona Daytona Ref. 116508, And claims that as gold lineups expand, More all-gold models will appear in Datejust instead of Rolesor. However, All rumors will be confirmed only at Watches & Wonders at the end of March.

VIVER will also quickly deliver news from the scene. Until then, We hope you enjoy imagining your own lineup predictions :)