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Whether you own a luxury watch or not, I believe everyone has at some point wondered, "Which model is popular?" While everyone has their own motivations, such as "I want a popular classic model!" or "I want a model that isn't commonly seen!", knowing what is truly popular in real-time is difficult to obtain without constant updates.
Therefore, this time, we will unveil the top 5 vintage Rolex models (4-digit reference numbers) handled by Commit Ginza (hereinafter: our store) from January to March 2026! Please enjoy guessing the ranking with us.
5th Place
Daytona "Ref.6263"
In 5th place is the "Ref.6263", the final model of the manual-winding 'Daytona' with a plastic bezel, produced from around 1969 to 1988.
With the screw-down push buttons, the water resistance was improved from 30m to 50m, and the word "OYSTER" was printed on the dial for the first time on a 'Daytona'. The movement is the highly accurate "Cal.727", inherited from the second generation. Original pieces that match the year of manufacture are becoming scarce, and models like the "Big Red" with a red logo on the 6 o'clock sub-dial, or the rare "Paul Newman" dials, are particularly rare and have become auction pieces. While they rarely appear on the market, if you do find one, it's important to not immediately purchase it, but first confirm its authenticity with the store staff.
4th Place
Submariner "Ref.1680"
In 4th place is the 'Submariner Date' "Ref.1680", produced from around 1969 to 1980, which was the first model to feature a calendar function.
It is characterized by a plastic crystal with a Cyclops lens that magnifies the date 2.5 times. Early models include the "Red Sub", which has the model name printed in red. There are currently six types of Red Sub, and the earliest models are particularly rare. From around 1976, the model name logo was changed to white, and the movement was the "Cal.1570", which is a high-beat version of the "Cal.1530". This vintage model, which boasts enduring popularity among 'Submariner' watches, became more convenient with the addition of a date display. Why not consider getting one?
3rd Place
GMT-Master "Ref.1675"
In 3rd place is the "Ref.1675", the second-generation model of the 'GMT-Master', produced from around 1959 to 1980.
This model is broadly divided into two categories: early gilt dials and later matte dials. While early models feature many rare points such as pointed crown guards (PCG), matte dials tend to show less aging and are highly regarded by practical users. The greatest appeal of the 'GMT-Master' is the "expression" that changes significantly depending on the color of the bezel. So, why not look for a piece that suits your taste, from vibrant colors to those that have acquired a subtle vintage patina?
2nd Place
Explorer "Ref.1016"
In 2nd place is the 'Explorer' "Ref.1016", a long-selling model produced for approximately 30 years, from around 1960 to 1990.
The early models feature a glossy mirror dial with a gold minute track, known as the "MM dial", while from around 1967, it was changed to a matte dial without gloss. There are two types of movements: the early version used the "Cal.1560", which vibrated 5 times per second and had the company's unique adjust screw mechanism for time adjustment. From around 1965, the "Cal.1570" was adopted, which increased the vibration rate to 5.5 times per second for improved accuracy. Its universally simple design has earned immense popularity, from those buying their first luxury watch to enthusiasts who have owned numerous luxury timepieces.
1st Place
Submariner "Ref.5513"
Taking the glorious 1st place is the "Ref.5513", which is also gaining significant attention as an entry-level model for [Vintage Rolex].
This is a long-selling model produced from around 1963 to 1990, and its significant appeal lies in the variations resulting from minor changes in specifications. Models such as the "meter first," where the waterproof notation at the 6 o'clock position shows meters then feet (ft), and the "lollipop," where the dots are close to the minute markers, making them look like candies, seem to be particularly sought after. Additionally, due to the relatively large number of available pieces, many people enjoy not only searching for their preferred specifications but also looking for birth-year pieces. This melancholic appearance condenses the charm of vintage, and it's a model that almost every man would want to get their hands on at least once.
Summary
What did you think?
[Vintage Rolex] watches, with their unique atmosphere developed through aging, often have smaller case sizes compared to current models, making them popular among people of all ages and genders. Choosing a watch from your birth year is also a sophisticated way to select one. Going forward, the number of available pieces will further decrease, so we recommend acquiring one early if it catches your eye.We hope this article serves as a useful reference for your purchases. Please look forward to the next ranking of handled watches!
