The Best Rolex Watches to Invest in for 2023

Rolex is one of the most prestigious and sought-after watch brands in the world, and many collectors and enthusiasts consider Rolex watches as valuable investments. However, not all Rolex models are equally profitable or likely to increase in value over time. Some factors that affect the investment potential of a Rolex watch include its rarity, demand, condition, materials, design, and history. In this article, we will look at some of the best Rolex watches to invest in for 2023, based on their current market prices, popularity, and future prospects.

Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is probably the safest bet when it comes to buying Rolex watches for investments. The Submariner is Rolex’s most iconic and recognized watch, and it is also the Rolex watch that has proven to increase the most in value. The Submariner was introduced in 1953 as the first dive watch with a water resistance of 100 meters, and since then it has evolved into a versatile and elegant timepiece that can be worn on any occasion.

The Submariner is available in different materials, colors, and configurations, but the most popular and desirable ones are the stainless steel models with black or blue dials and bezels. These models are often sold out at authorized dealers and have long waiting lists, which drives up their prices on the secondary market. For example, the current stainless steel Submariner with a black dial and bezel (ref. 126610LN) has a retail price of $9,150, but it can easily fetch over $15,000 on the open market.

However, if you want to invest in a Submariner that has more potential for appreciation in the future, you might want to consider some of the older and discontinued models. For instance, the previous generation of the Submariner with a 40mm case and a ceramic bezel (ref. 116610LN) was discontinued in 2020 and replaced by the new 41mm version. Despite the minor difference in size and movement, the ref. 116610LN offers almost the same features as the new model, but it can be purchased for a few thousand dollars less. Moreover, this reference might become more collectible and valuable in the future as it represents the last of the 40mm Submariners.

Another option is to go for the even older generation of the Submariner with a 40mm case and an aluminum bezel insert (ref. 16610 or ref. 14060). These models are among the least expensive Rolex Submariner watches available, but they are also the last generation to feature the classic proportions and design of the watch before the introduction of the Super Case and Maxi dialAdditionally, these models have a vintage charm and appeal that many collectors appreciate.

Finally, if you prefer a more colorful and flashy Submariner, you can opt for a two-tone or solid gold model. Two-tone watches have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and they offer a nice balance between luxury and sportiness. The two-tone Submariner with a blue dial and bezel (ref. 126613LB) is one of the most popular models in this category, but you can also find older references like the ref. 16613 or ref. 16803 for lower prices. Solid gold Submariners are more expensive and ostentatious, but they also have a higher intrinsic value due to their precious metal content. The solid yellow gold Submariner with a blue dial and bezel (ref. 126618LB) is a stunning example of this style.

Rolex GMT-Master II

The Rolex GMT-Master II is another popular and versatile watch that can serve as a great investment. The GMT-Master II was introduced in 1982 as an upgrade to the original GMT-Master from 1954. The GMT-Master II features an independent hour hand that can be set to a second time zone, while the rotating bezel can display a third time zone. This makes it an ideal watch for travelers, pilots, and professionals who work across different time zones.

The GMT-Master II is also known for its distinctive and colorful bezels that have earned nicknames such as Pepsi (blue and red), Coke (black and red), Batman (black and blue), Root Beer (brown and gold), or Kermit (black and green). These bezels add character and personality to the watch, and they also influence its value and demand. For example, the current stainless steel GMT-Master II with a Pepsi bezel (ref. 126710BLRO) has a retail price of $9,700, but it can sell for over $20,000 on the secondary market due to its high popularity and scarcity.

However, as with the Submariner, some of the best investment opportunities among GMT-Master II watches are the older and discontinued models. For example, the previous generation of the GMT-Master II with a 40mm case and a ceramic bezel (ref. 116710LN) was discontinued in 2019 and replaced by the new 40mm version with a Jubilee bracelet (ref. 126710BLNR). The ref. 116710LN features a solid Oyster bracelet and an all-black bezel, which gives it a more understated and elegant look than the newer models. It also has a lower price than the new models, but it might become more sought-after and valuable in the future as it represents the last of the 40mm GMT-Master II watches with an Oyster bracelet.

Another option is to go for the even older generation of the GMT-Master II with a 40mm case and an aluminum bezel insert (ref. 16710). This reference was produced from 1989 to 2007 and was the last reference with an aluminum bezel before the introduction of the ceramic bezel. This reference is also very versatile and diverse, as it offers different bezel options such as Pepsi, Coke, or all-black. Furthermore, this reference has different dial variations depending on the type of lume used: tritium, LumiNova, or Super-LumiNova. Some of the last models from 2007 also feature an updated movement (caliber 3186) that has a smoother GMT hand adjustment. Overall, this reference is a great choice if you want a classic and vintage-style GMT-Master II that has a lot of potential for appreciation.

Finally, if you want a more luxurious and exclusive GMT-Master II, you can choose a two-tone or solid gold model. Two-tone models are more affordable and accessible than solid gold models, but they still offer a touch of elegance and refinement. The two-tone GMT-Master II with a Root Beer bezel (ref. 126711CHNR) is one of the most attractive models in this category, but you can also find older references like the ref. 16713 or ref. 16753 for lower prices. Solid gold models are more expensive and rare, but they also have a higher intrinsic value due to their precious metal content. The solid yellow gold GMT-Master II with a green dial and bezel (ref. 116718LN) is a stunning example of this style.

Rolex Daytona

The Rolex Daytona is one of the most legendary and coveted watches in the world, and it is also one of the most expensive and difficult to acquire. The Daytona was introduced in 1963 as a chronograph watch for racing drivers, and it has become synonymous with speed, performance, and prestige. The Daytona features a tachymeter scale on the bezel that can measure average speeds up to 400 km/h or mph, and three subdials that can record elapsed time up to 12 hours.

The Daytona is available in different materials, colors, and configurations, but the most popular and desirable ones are the stainless steel models with black or white dials. These models are often sold out at authorized dealers and have long waiting lists, which drives up their prices on the secondary market. For example, the current stainless steel Daytona with a black dial (ref. 116500LN) has a retail price of $13,150, but it can sell for over $30,000 on the open market.

However, if you want to invest in a Daytona that has more potential for appreciation in the future, you might want to consider some of the older and discontinued models. For instance, the previous generation of the Daytona with a 40mm case and an engraved steel bezel (ref. 116520) was discontinued in 2016 and replaced by the new version with a ceramic bezel. Despite the minor difference in bezel material, the ref. 116520 offers almost the same features as the new model, but it can be purchased for a lower price. Moreover, this reference might become more collectible and valuable in the future as it represents the first generation of Daytona watches with an in-house movement (caliber 4130).

conclusion

Another option is to go for the even older generation of the Daytona with a 40mm case and an acrylic bezel (ref. 16520). This reference was produced from 1988 to 2000 and was the first reference to feature an automatic movement (caliber 4030 based on Zenith El Primero). This reference is also very diverse and interesting, as it offers different dial variations depending on the type of lume used: tritium or LumiNova. Some of these dials have become very rare and collectible over time, such as the inverted six dial or the Patrizzi dial.