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Whether you own a luxury watch or not, I'm sure everyone has wondered at least once, "Which models are popular?" While everyone has their own motivations, such as "I want a popular, classic model!" or "I want a model that no one else has!", it's difficult to know which models are actually popular unless you get real-time information.
So, this time, we will be revealing the top 5 semi-vintage Rolex watches (models with five-digit model numbers) handled by Commit Ginza (hereafter referred to as our store) in the second half of 2025! Please join us in imagining the rankings and enjoy the read.
5th place
GMT-Master II "Ref. 16710"
In fifth place is the long-selling model "GMT Master II" (Ref. 16710), which was released in 1988.
While the original GMT-Master II (Ref. 16760) was only available in a red and black bezel color to differentiate it from the GMT-Master sold at the same time, the Ref. 16710 returns in red and blue and black, once again garnering significant attention. As a long-selling model, it has undergone several minor changes, with the "stick dial" seen in models from 2005 to 2008 (serial numbers D, Z, and M) becoming particularly popular. While this is one option, if your child was born in this age group, you might consider using it yourself and then giving it as a gift to commemorate their coming-of-age. ( Stick dial: A watch with a "II" in the model name "GMT-Master II" at 6 o'clock, printed as "||" without any horizontal lines above or below. )
4th place
Submariner "Ref. 16613"
Coming in fourth place is the long-selling model "Ref. 16613," which was produced from around 1989 (R number) to around 2009 (V number).
Due to its long production period, it has undergone several minor changes, such as brushing up the bracelet and case, and changing the luminous paint. It is also nicknamed the "Blue Sub" due to its blue bezel and blue dial color scheme, and is a particularly popular model among the many combination models. Among these, the violet dial model, where the blue dial has turned purple over time, is particularly recommended for its cool appearance and rarity.
3rd place
Explorer II "Ref. 16570" White Dial
Coming in third place is the white dial "Explorer II" "Ref. 16570", which boasts excellent practicality with its GMT function and date display.
Among the stainless steel sports models, this one, like the Daytona, comes in both black and white dials. The dial texture varies depending on the year, and some models have faded luminous material over time, offering the joy of searching for the look you prefer. Its successors, the Reference 216570 and Reference 226570, have enlarged case sizes to 42mm, so the 40mm size, which fits comfortably on Japanese wrists, is likely to see increasing demand in the future.
2nd place
Explorer "Ref. 14270"
In second place is the Explorer Ref. 14270, which is ranked first and second among Rolex models in terms of both popularity and name recognition.
This model, which sparked a huge boom when worn by Takuya Kimura, is relatively affordable among Rolex models and boasts a simple design that can be worn both on and off the job, making it the go-to choice for many as their "first Rolex." It remains popular even now, more than 20 years after production ceased. It was released as a complete redesign of its predecessor, the Ref. 1016. Early production models included the "Blackout" model, which lacked the white lines at the 3, 6, and 9 indices, revealing the bare metal numerals, as well as rare examples with a single buckle and a hole on the side of the case. Due to its high demand and many rare features, it's a prime candidate for the "next vintage model."
1st place
Daytona "Ref. 16520" Black Dial
Taking the honorable first place is the black dial "Ref. 16520," the fourth generation "Daytona" manufactured from around 1988 (R number) to around 2000 (A number).
This watch is equipped with an automatic movement based on Zenith's renowned El Primero chronograph movement, making it one of the most popular Rolex watches. Individual variations exist depending on the production period, and examples with faded brown subdials, commonly known as "Patrizzi" (brown eye), are particularly rare and often trade at high prices. Due to the sheer number of specifications, many people are confused. We recommend first checking with a trusted appraiser or staff member before purchasing.
summary
What did you think?
The results showed that the popular "Daytona" was the strongest, but popular models such as the entry-level "Explorer," the colorful "GMT-Master II," and the "Submariner" also made it into the rankings.
Many semi-vintage models have undergone minor changes, and their appearance and value change significantly with each generation. Furthermore, they are "discontinued models with limited availability," meaning their market prices are unlikely to drop and their circulation never increases. They are therefore promising candidates for the future. However, not all models are suitable, so if you are considering buying or selling, please feel free to consult with us first. We will provide appropriate advice based on your needs and circumstances.
We hope this article will be helpful for your buying and selling. Please look forward to the next article and subsequent rankings!
