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 semi-vintage Rolex watches (models with 5-digit model numbers) handled by Commit Ginza (hereinafter referred to as our store) in the first half of 2025! Please enjoy reading the list while imagining the rankings together with us.
5th place
Submariner "Ref. 16610LV"
In fifth place is the Ref. 16610LV, which was released in 2003 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner and uses Rolex's corporate color green .
This model, which was manufactured until around 2010, is popular for its textured green aluminum bezel. The green color bezel that has been passed down from generation to generation has been changed to a Cerachrom bezel from the successor model "Ref. 116610LV", so the color of this first generation can be said to be one of a kind. In addition, models with features such as "Flat 4" and "Big Swiss" are very popular and often trade at high prices. This is a highly recommended watch not only for its design, but also for its functionality and asset value .
4th place
GMT-Master II "Ref. 16710"
In fourth place is the long-selling model "GMT Master II" "Ref. 16710", which was released in 1988.
The first GMT Master II, Ref. 16760, was only available in red and black bezel colors to differentiate it from the GMT Master that was sold at the same time. However, the Ref. 16710 has been reissued in red and blue and black, which has once again attracted a lot of attention. As it is a long-selling model, it has undergone several minor changes, but the stick dial seen in 2005-2008 (serial numbers D, Z, and M) is particularly popular. While this is one option, if your child was born in this age group, you may want to consider giving it as a gift to commemorate their coming of age, after using it yourself. ( Stick dial: The "II" in the model name "GMT Master II" at the 6 o'clock position on the dial has no horizontal lines above or below it, and is printed as "||". )
3rd place
Explorer II "Ref.16570" White Dial

Coming in third place is the white dial "Explorer II" "Ref. 16570", which is highly practical with its GMT function and date display.
Among the stainless steel sports models, this one comes in both black and white dials, just like the Daytona, and you can enjoy searching for your favorite texture from the various differences, such as the texture of the dial depending on the era, or the luminous material fading over time. The successor models, the Ref. 216570 and Ref. 226570, have a larger case size of 42mm, so the demand for the 40mm size, which is more comfortable on Japanese wrists, is likely to increase in the future.
2nd place
Explorer "Ref. 14270"

In second place is the Ref. 14270 from the Explorer series, which is often chosen as an entry-level model for luxury watches due to its simple design.
True to its concept of "a watch made for adventurers," this watch is extremely easy to use, with a robust case and a dial with excellent visibility, and is extremely popular for its versatility, allowing it to be worn both on and off the job, and its affordable price range. It is also attracting a lot of attention as a leading next vintage model, and the early models with a single buckle and a hole on the side of the case are particularly recommended for those who want to choose a watch that is "valuable as an investment!"
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 series) to around 2000 (A series).
This watch is equipped with an automatic movement based on Zenith's El Primero, a famous chronograph movement, and is one of the most popular Rolex watches. There are individual differences depending on the time of production, and some watches, known as "Patrizzi (brown eye)", have faded brown subdials, making them particularly rare, and many of them are traded at high prices. Many people are confused by the large number of specifications. We recommend that you first check with a trusted appraiser or staff before purchasing.
summary
What did you think?
The results showed that the Daytona, which is rumored to be very popular among the public, was the strongest, but colorful, bold models such as the GMT-Master II and Submariner were also gaining popularity.
Six-figure Rolex models like the one we introduced this time are extremely popular, and as such, prices fluctuate wildly. We understand that it can be difficult to know when to buy and sell, so if you are considering buying or selling, please feel free to consult with us first. We will provide appropriate advice based on your requests and circumstances.
We hope this article will be helpful for your buying and selling. Please look forward to the next article and the ranking of the number of items handled!