[2024 Edition] Rolex Vintage and Semi-Vintage Models "Top 5 Recommended Models by Price Range" <2-3 Million Yen Edition>

Today, we will be sending you the 2024 edition of the Rolex vintage and semi-vintage models "Top 5 recommended models by price range" (2 to 3 million yen edition) .

Vintage and semi-vintage models each have their own unique charm. Individual differences are likely to be evident, so it can be hard to know which one to choose. So, from the perspective of a professional who has handled many models, I would like to carefully select the models that I really recommend and introduce them by price range!

This time, we have selected watches in the 2 to 3 million yen price range, which is often searched for by people who are thinking of purchasing a vintage or semi-vintage model for the first time, so please enjoy until the end!

* Selection is based on the following conditions.
・Vintage model: No warranty, parts are inconsistent
・Semi-vintage: Warranty included, parts in good condition

If you are interested in any of the watches, please register your interest in them now.

① "GMT Master II" "Ref. 16760"

The first model of the GMT-Master II produced from around 1982, the Ref. 16760, is also known as the "Fat Lady."

As its nickname suggests, its biggest feature is the thickness of the case, and it was only available with a red-black bezel called "Coke". Some pieces have faded bezel colors over the years, while others have strong tritium luminous paint burned over time, making this a watch that allows you to fully enjoy the semi-vintage atmosphere. It was discontinued in 1988 when its successor model "Ref. 16710" was released, but since it was only manufactured for about six years, it is assumed that there were not many of them. In recent years, there have been very few of these models in circulation, so from the perspective of asset value, it is one model that is worth looking forward to in the future.

② "Datejust" "Ref.16233"

From the entry-level dress watch model "Datejust," we would like to introduce the combination model "Ref. 16233," which was produced from 1988 to around 2004.

The Datejust has a wide variety of dials , but what I would like to recommend this time is a combination model that uses natural materials such as natural stone, natural wood, and artificial stone for the dial (excluding some rare dials), and SS (stainless steel) x 18KYG (yellow gold) for the case and bracelet. Models that use natural materials are less common and are very popular, but combination models are relatively affordable compared to solid gold models, so I think they are worth aiming for. The appeal is the unique atmosphere that cannot be experienced with current models and the one-of-a-kind dials, with no two having the same pattern .

*The photo shows a ferrite dial made of artificial stone.

③ "Day Date" "Ref.18238"

The "Ref. 18238" is made of 18KYG (yellow gold), which was manufactured from 1988 to around 2000.

The Day-Date has a special position among the many Rolex models, as it is equipped with a day of the week display and a special President bracelet that are not available in other models. The movement has been changed from the previous Cal.3055 to the Cal.3155, which allows quick change of not only the date but also the day of the week, further improving operability.

Like the Datejust, the Day-Date also has a wide variety of dials, but we recommend the classic color dials such as champagne and black. They are priced more affordable than those made from natural materials, but are of course excellent investments. They also have a luxurious look and excellent status, making them the perfect watch for a mature man. If you are worried that the watch may be a little too flashy, we recommend replacing the bracelet with a leather strap.

④ "Submariner" "Ref. 5513"

From the Submariner, the epitome of diver's watches, comes the Ref. 5513, which is also attracting attention as an entry-level model for vintage Rolexes.

This is the long-selling Submariner model manufactured from around 1963 to around 1990, and the differences in specifications due to minor changes make it a very attractive model. It can be said to be a model that led the evolution of diver's watches, such as changing to a "triplock crown" to improve practicality and water resistance, and adopting an "extension" for the first time so that it can be worn over a diving suit. From the "Ref. 5513", we recommend a model with a rimless matte dial. There are currently relatively many models in circulation, so we recommend looking for your favorite specifications such as Lemlich, Stern, and Singer, or looking for a model that matches your birth year.

⑤ Explorer "Ref.1016"

The last model we would like to introduce is the Explorer Ref. 1016, one of the most popular vintage Rolex models.

This is a long-selling model that was manufactured for about 30 years from around 1960 to around 1990, and its simple design has long made it a favorite among Rolex fans. The model we recommend this time is one with a matte dial. It is a model that is often the last one that enthusiasts who have been through many different watches end up getting, so its universal popularity is expected to continue in the future. It seems that there are fewer good examples available every year, so we recommend that you grab one early.

summary

What did you think?

These are all classic, popular models that have been featured many times on our YouTube channel and in columns, but on the other hand, that also means they are so popular that we would like to recommend them.

If you own any of the models introduced here and are considering selling them, we would be delighted if you would take advantage of our store's stock sales and purchase services.