While there are relatively few one-of-a-kind Rolex watches available, there are still a few models that are exceptionally scarce. Here are some of the most sought-after models right now.
Paul Newman Daytona
The most valuable Rolex Daytonas have what is known as a ‘exotic’ or ‘Paul Newman’ dial. These dials contain a variety of distinguishing qualities that are easily overlooked by less discriminating purchasers. With only two or three thousand ever made, these 1960s and 1970s models are known to attract a lot of attention from collectors, fetching up to six figures at auctions.
Vintage Rolex watches
The broad area of Vintage Rolex watches is another option for would-be investors to consider. Collectors seeking to acquire a piece of Rolex history have seen a noteworthy surge in demand for vintage models in the previous decade. Due to the scarcity of genuine vintage Rolex models, demand is expected to continue to rise.
Rolex Milgauss
The Rolex Milgauss, sometimes known as the “science watch,” is a timepiece with a fascinating backstory. The Milgauss’ major feature, aside from its slightly unusual looks which include an orange electricity bolt second hand and a green sapphire crystal is its resilience to magnetic fields. Milgauss watches have been out of production for nearly two decades, and there is a scarcity of them on the market today. Despite the fact that manufacture resumed in 2007, the fact that only a few Milgauss watches were produced during this time means that specific Milgauss models are still in demand.
Rolex sports watches
Steel Rolex sports watches, on the whole, dependably hold or appreciate in value. The GMT-Master II, with its famed two-color bezel, the Cosmograph Daytona, and the ever-popular Submariner 16610 are all examples of this.
The GMT-Master II “Batman” with its black and blue bezel, as well as the “Hulk” Submariner with its green bezel, have been increasingly popular in recent months. Rare and discontinued Rolex sports watches are often the center of attention.
Will Rolex prices rise in 2021?
On the other hand, the Rolex ‘Professional Watches’ line, which includes models like the Submariner, GMT-Master II, and Daytona, had the most significant increases in average retail prices. According to Professional Watches, the price of a stainless steel Submariner Ref. 124060 in the US market increased by 10.5 percent from USD$8,100 in 2021 to USD$8,950 in 2022, signifying a 10.5 percent rise.
Will Rolex prices decrease in 2022?
Objectively, there’s no need to pay nearly double the list price for a Rolex Submariner in 2022 that’s where the current market price for this dive watch is. There are a few dive watches available nowadays that are not only more inexpensive but also of higher quality. If the Submariner is your dream watch, though, objectivity won’t stop you from desiring one. Luxury timepieces, as I’ve already stated, are all about feelings. If you wait for prices to drop, you may find that they rise even higher, making your dream watch eternally out of reach. I’d like to share a personal experience with you on this topic: In July 2020, a good friend and fellow watch aficionado had his heart set on a white Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39. He was even planning on driving nearly 100 miles on his birthday to get the watch, but then he changed his mind. After giving the purchase some thought, he came to the conclusion that a premium of over $1,000 was not something he was ready to pay. As watch lovers, we even had a long phone talk and concluded that the watch wasn’t worth the extra money. While that may still be objectively accurate, we now both agree that paying the premium and purchasing the watch at the time would have been a wiser decision. The Oyster Perpetual 39 was replaced by the 41 just two months after my friend opted against his dream watch, and the white dial was removed from the collection. The white dial is still extremely hard to get by nowadays. As a result, in comparison to today’s costs, the watch was a great steal in 2020. We still talk about the watch, hating ourselves for not letting him buy it. It still hurts me to think about it even as I type this. If the Rolex Submariner is your dream watch and you have the funds, don’t wait until 2022 to purchase one. I don’t see Rolex watches depreciating in value any time soon. Even if costs do eventually fall due to some unforeseen circumstance, you’ll already be sporting the timeless icon you’ve always desired.
Is Rolex’s price going up every year?
Rolex was quietly adjusting its price tags while you were busy celebrating and ringing in the new year. According to the USD prices given on the Rolex website, most watches now cost anything from 3% to over 10% more than they did previously. Many models will see a price increase of a few hundred dollars, but some may see a price increase of over a thousand dollars.
For example, if you wanted a GMT Master II “Pepsi” and were somehow special enough to be able to purchase one at retail pricing, buying it in December would have saved you $1,050. It’s common for manufacturers to raise prices over time, and Rolex does it on a regular basis, but this year (with inflation on everyone’s mind), the rises are larger than in prior years. There’s no need to panic, but we’re here to destroy your Monday mornings, so there you have it.
Many people may find the discrepancy in MSRP slightly humorous, given that few steel Rolex sport watches are available at retail. Buyers must join extended waiting lists (which often require that they have previously purchased wait for it other Rolexes), and the watches frequently sell for more than MSRP on the secondary market practically as soon as they are released.
Do not, under any circumstances, despise the player; rather, despise the game. Rolex isn’t in the business of creating cheap watches to begin with, so it’s hard to blame them for raising costs. Here are some examples of how buying popular Rolex models in 2022 can damage your budget even more:
Do Rolex watches that have been discontinued appreciate in value?
Rolex watches are crafted from the highest-quality materials, with each component designed to satisfy exacting specifications. They’re one of the world’s most well-known luxury wristwatches.
You may already own a Rolex watch or are about to buy one, and you’re wondering if the price will rise over time.
The international brand awareness and inner workings of each Rolex watch, as well as the model, style, and technical updates, all play a role in why the Rolex watch price may continue to rise. Even while there is no method for predicting whether the price of a particular Rolex model will climb or fall, watch prices have risen rapidly over the years, making these watches an excellent investment.
Submariner, GMT Master II, and Daytona models have all appreciated in value over time, with the lowest models now costing an average of 6,250, 8,164, and 11,679, respectively.
Rolex prices increased by 7.4% on January 1st, 2020. The preowned market’s price also increased as a result of this.
There have been reports that the Rolex price may rise in 2021, although this has yet to be proven.
The majority of the timepieces are created in small quantities and for a limited time. As a result, Rolex’s supply on the market is limited and cannot keep up with the strong demand.
Because they’re so uncommon on the market, they’re quite pricey when compared to other watches that are more frequently available.
Is Rolex still valuable?
Rolex watches retain their value, and the value of some models increases dramatically. Let’s say you have a Submariner, a Cosmograph Daytona, a Day-Date, or a GMT-Master II (just to name a few). In that situation, whether you’re a seller or a collector, it’s a fantastic chance.
Major price hike in “Professional Watches collection
In the United States, the price of the 41 mm stainless steel Oyster Perpetual Ref. 124300 has increased from $5,900 in 2021 to $6,150 in 2022. Long-term collectors may not be affected by the 4.2 percent rise.
In 2021, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 124060 (from the Professional Collection) was priced at $8,100. Its price on the US market has grown by 10.5 percent this year, reaching $8,950. In the new year, the price range has climbed by an average of 3.4 percent.
Which Rolex will be more valuable in 2022?
The best resale superstars on the market are the top Rolex watches to invest in in 2022. These timepieces offer a huge profit, from Cosmograph Daytonas to Presidential Day-Dates.
Rolex luxury isn’t simply for the shopaholic’s pride. It also has the distinction of superior functionality and unrivaled elegance.
When you think of Rolex, you think of opulence. It’s no wonder, given the brand’s superb reputation earned over the past century.
Rolex watches have a high resale value. You could buy a Rolex watch to hold a set price value and sell at a profit if it weren’t for the functionality and status.
However, given the vast selection, picking the best Rolex watch to invest in for 2022 can be difficult.
As a result, we’ve compiled a list of the top seven Rolex watches to buy in 2022.
You can trust our years of collecting luxury timepieces to help you make a perfect purchase.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (Green Dial): John Mayer Edition
This yellow-gold green dial Rolex Daytona was significantly underselling the manufacturer’s indicated retail price when Mayer co-signed with the collection (MSRP).
It sold for almost 37,000 nine months later. Because of John Mayer’s seal of approval, the price continues to rise.
The 18ct yellow-gold watch was originally created to be the premium timing instrument for endurance race drivers, but it is now more of a fashion symbol.
The bezel’s tachymetric scale can display average speed over a certain distance. With a combination of sporty elegance and ultimate functionality, it’s no surprise that astute watch collectors are still splurging on this one.
Aside from that, the green dial on this Rolex is a selling element. The combination of this green dial and an 18ct gold hour marker is nearly enticing, given that green is a symbol of prosperity in many cultures.
Another interesting feature of this timepiece is that depending on the angle of the sun, the green dial can seem dark or bright green. Isn’t it fascinating?
In addition, the wristwatch has an incredible power reserve that allows it to run for at least 3 days (72 hours) while not in use.
Because of the monetary advantages, this Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “John Mayer” Green Dial ref number 116508 could be the ideal Rolex 2022 investment watch.
The wristwatch is currently on the market for roughly 87,338. As a result, everyone who bought it in January 2010 for 43,142 will more than quadruple their money.
Rolex Daytona Stainless Steel Ceramic Bezel
It is particularly popular with celebrities and was named after America’s motor racing capitals.
Furthermore, because to the strong demand for this stainless steel timepiece, even precious metal references cannot compete with it in the resale market.
While a new stainless steel Daytona costs 13,864, a resale value of more than 30,000 is common, particularly with the white-dial version (ref number 116500LN)
Given that they sold for roughly 20,000 a year ago, this is a true resale superstar that will be worth a lot of money in 2022.
Rolex Submariner
If you’re seeking for the most popular Rolex to invest in in 2022, a Submariner might be the watch for you.
It boasts a sleek design and is waterproof to roughly 300 meters, which is much deeper than the average sport diver will ever go.
Rolex Submariners are widely sought after by pre-owned watch purchasers because to their remarkable quality and long-lasting durability.
Modern Submariners, particularly ones with ceramic bezels, have become rather costly.
On Chrono24, the current Rolex Submariner ref. 126610LN costs over 12,000, while the older Rolex Submariner ref. 116610LN costs roughly 11,000.
So, if you’re seeking for a Submariner at a reasonable price, the ref. 126610LN is a great option.
A Rolex Submariner is tough to come by. The ref. 126610LN, on the other hand, will surely become much more expensive if the current pattern of growing pricing for these popular models continues.
On the pre-owned watch market, however, there are a lot of Rolex Submariner 126610LN fakes. So make sure to buy from a reputable dealer and obtain an authenticity certificate.
Rolex GMT-Master
Since 1950, the GMT-Master range has been on the market. It was designed to help pilots keep track of multiple time zones at once.
When the GMT-Master II was released in the 1990s, it became more than just a pilot’s timepiece.
The 40mm watch features a steel case with an automatic calibre and a sapphire crystal bezel.
It’s no surprise that it’ll be one of the most sought-after Rolex watches in 2022. The GMT Master II, on the other hand, exudes a guarded eccentricity to this day.
The Rolex GMT-Master II features rotating 24-hour advanced bezels that allow the wearer to read three separate time zones at the same time.
Despite its obvious wear, this model has a wonderful appeal that complements both casual and formal attire.
Its large dial exudes elegance, and potential purchasers clamor for its attractive appearance.
The first GMT-Master II with a green bezel is also the first with a ceramic bezel. The unusual green GMT hand of the ref. 116710LN makes it famous among collectors and wearers alike. It is now priced between 12,000 to 17,000.
You won’t have any problems with ref. 16710, 126710BLNR, or 126711CHNR because these pieces are resale superstars.
This new GMT Master 16710, for example, costs 20,950 today, compared to roughly 13,000 in the beginning of November 2021.
Rolex Explorer II
Following an improvement to the case design and calibre, the new Rolex Explorer II with ref number 226570 was introduced earlier this year to replace the 216570 edition.
There isn’t much of a distinction between them in terms of design. As a result, when purchasing this high-end timepiece, you should think about the price.
The latest Rolex Explorer II ref. 226570, for example, costs over 11,000, while the ref. 216570 costs roughly 8000.
Furthermore, the Rolex Explorer has grown in popularity over time and is one of the Rolex watches that will most certainly increase in price.
As a result, in 2022, you have a high chance of recouping your Rolex Explorer II investment earnings.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Tiffany & Cotton Candy Dials
Given Rolex’s aversion to using bright colors, the debut of this watch startled everyone.
Steel calibres in 36mm and 41mm are excellent all-around options. It’s no surprise, then, that it’s one of the best Rolex investment watches for 2022.
The Tiffany or Cotton Candy dials are fantastic choices that will pay out handsomely in the long run.
These watches have an MSRP of roughly 4400 for the 36mm and 41mm in these colors.
The Tiffany Blue Dial ref. 124300 sells for roughly 30,063 on Chrono, up from around 7,000 a year ago.
Rolex Day-Date
The Rolex Day-Date is a high-end watch. It’s made of luxurious materials including gold, rose gold, and platinum.
This watch, often known as the “President Watch,” portrays the wrists of power and economics in society, not the introvert.
Since then, numerous variations of the Day-Date collection have been manufactured, all of which are in high demand in the retail sector, including variants from the 1970s and 1980s.
That’s because they come in a variety of eye-catching enamel colors like orange, turquoise, pink, and yellow.
The 2021 Olive Green Roman Dial ref. 228235 is a Day-Date to consider. It’s a true distinguishing mark.
Its green dial and fluted bezel, which are wrapped in a rose gold case, are eye-catching.
The thrill of brushing grooves across the dial that dilute light is intriguing. It offers the green dial a unique brilliance that you won’t see on any other Rolex.
This Day-Date is now on the market for 58,000. On the resale market, however, it is scarce. It sold for around 32,000 a year ago. As a result, selling a used Day-Date in 2022 will yield a significant profit.
Because of their year-round high market demand, reselling Rolex watches is a great investment. If you’re ready to start buying high-resale Rolex watches, browse our pre-owned Rolex watch collection to get the greatest offers.
Are Rolex watches becoming more valuable?
Rolex is one of the most known and collectible watch brands in the world, and many Rolex watches retain their worth through time for these and other reasons. It was named one of the world’s most powerful brands by none other than Forbes. It’s clear to say that Rolex has more than earned these honors. Rolex has consistently risen in importance and recognition around the world since its founding in 1905, and it will continue to do so in the future. Rolex has unquestionably set the benchmark in many respects as one of the pioneers in the watchmaking industry. It’s no surprise that Rolex continues to reign as one of the most respected names in the watch world and the hottest selling brand for luxury watch resellers, having accomplished many impressive feats such as creating the world’s first waterproof dive watch, creating various other innovative features, as well as developing their very own in-house calibers and even many of their own materials.
The average cost of a new Rolex watch has risen steadily since the 1950s. Despite the fact that more individuals own a Rolex now than ever before which would normally result in a devaluation of the brand – the brand continues to flourish as the value of Rolex watches rises. And there is no indication that this will change in the not-too-distant future. Every year, it appears that individuals are willing to pay more and more for a Rolex watch.
Whether you buy a new or used Rolex watch, you can nearly assure that it will keep its value well. Furthermore, many models appreciate in value over time. If you can get your hands on a limited-edition model, you’ll have a good chance of generating a good profit when it comes time to sell your Rolex.
Will the Rolex scarcity ever end?
The shortfall is unlikely to go away very soon as long as demand for specific models remains high. Rolex not only has no plans to significantly increase manufacturing, but they also don’t tell authorized dealers whose watches they’re delivering at any particular time (instead sending “mystery boxes”).
Furthermore, in order to gratify authorized dealers, flippers will purchase less desirable models in order to be first in line for the most desirable ones. They acquire the new Daytona or GMT after being bumped to the top of the list and then sell it at a premium to someone in China, Singapore, or anywhere.
Rolex is playing its cards just perfectly, assuming a certain amount of intent in them. They maintain an air of exclusivity, scarcity, and distinction by limiting output and keeping communication links to a minimal. Let’s not forget that the Swiss company also makes a fantastic premium watch. There’s always eBay if you’re desperate for one.