Whether you own a luxury watch or not, you have probably wondered at least once, "Which model is 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 is difficult to know which models are actually popular unless you get real-time information.
So this time, we will be revealing the top 5 vintage Rolex watches (models with 4-digit model numbers) that we have handled at Commit Ginza (hereafter referred to as our store) in the past year! Please enjoy reading this article while imagining the rankings together with us.
5th place: Daytona "Ref.6263"
In fifth place is the final model of the manual-winding Daytona, Ref. 6263 , which features a plastic bezel and was produced from around 1969 to 1988 .
The push button has been changed to a screw-in type, and the waterproof performance has been upgraded from 30m to 50m, and the word "Oyster" has been printed on the dial for the first time on a Daytona. The movement is equipped with the high-precision "Cal. 727" inherited from the second generation . There are only a few watches that retain the originality that matches the year of manufacture, and the "Big Red" with a red logo on the subdial at 6 o'clock and the rare dial "Paul Newman" are particularly rare and have become auction pieces. They are rarely available on the market, but if you find one, it is best to first ask the store staff to confirm the compatibility rather than buying it immediately.
4th place: "GMT Master" "Ref.1675 "
Coming in fourth place is the second-generation GMT-Master model, Ref. 1675, which was produced from around 1959 to 1980 .
They are roughly divided into two categories: early gilt dials and later matte dials, but the early models have many rare features such as pointed crown guards (PCG). On the other hand, matte dials change relatively little over time, so they are popular among practical users. The most attractive feature of the GMT Master is its "appearance," which changes dramatically depending on the color of the bezel, so why not try looking for your favorite one, from colorful ones to ones with a subtle vintage look?
3rd Place
Explorer II "Ref.1655 "
In third place is the Ref. 1655 , the first model of the Explorer II, which was manufactured from around 1971 to 1983 as a higher-end model of the Explorer I.
Equipped with a large orange 24-hour hand and a 24-hour scale engraved on the bezel, this model allows you to distinguish between day and night, and the base of the hand is painted black, creating a "phantom effect" that makes the luminous hand appear to emerge in the dark, and the indexes are small to make the 24-hour scale easier to read, making this a highly designed model for a Rolex of the time. It also comes in a wide variety of dials, making it extremely popular among vintage models.
2nd Place
『Explorer I』「Ref.1016 」
In second place is the long-selling model "Explorer I" " Ref. 1016 " , which was manufactured for about 30 years from around 1960 to around 1990 .
The early models had a glossy mirror dial with a gold minute circle, commonly known as the "MM dial", but from around 1967 it was changed to a matte dial with no gloss. There are two types of movement: the early model was the "Cal. 1560" with 5 vibrations per second and the company's unique adjust screw type time adjustment function, and from around 1965, the "Cal. 1570" was used, which increased the vibration frequency to 5.5 vibrations to improve accuracy. Its universally simple design makes this model extremely popular with everyone, from those purchasing a luxury watch for the first time to enthusiasts who have owned many luxury watches.
1st Place
"Submariner" "Ref.5513 "
Taking the honorable first place is the Ref. 5513, which is also attracting attention as an entry-level model of vintage Rolex.
This is a long-selling model that was manufactured from around 1963 to around 1990, and the differences in specifications due to minor changes make it a very attractive model. Since there are relatively many units in circulation, not only can people enjoy searching for their favorite specifications, but many people are also looking for birth year units. This melancholic appearance encapsulates the charm of vintage watches, and it is a model that any man would want to own at least once.
summary
What did you think.
Vintage Rolexes, which have a unique atmosphere due to aging, are often smaller in size than current models, and are chosen by people of all ages and genders. Another stylish way to choose a watch is to choose one based on the year you were born. In the future, the number of watches will decrease even more, so if you have a hunch, we recommend that you get your hands on one as soon as possible.
Our entire staff will continue to work hard to provide you with valuable information and services!