08/10/2021
 3 minutes

Three Top-Performing Rolexes in Q2 2021 

By Jorg Weppelink

Rolex watches are more expensive than ever. Prices for the most popular references, such as the Daytona or Submariner, have shot to the Moon, but even more “beginners’ Rolexes” have appreciated significantly in value recently. We’ve analyzed the trends on Chrono24 to discover some popular models and how they’ve performed in the second quarter of 2021. Read on to find out more about these remarkable timepieces.  

Rolex Explorer Ref. 214270 (+29% from March to July)  

The first Rolex on our list is the recently discontinued Rolex Explorer ref. 214270. During Watches and Wonders this year, the Geneva-based brand introduced the new stainless steel 36-mm Rolex Explorer ref. 124270. As a result, the 39-mm Explorer ref. 214270 is no longer part of the current Rolex catalog. This came as a blow to the many Explorer fans who prefer their watches a bit bigger than the classic 36-mm diameter. Of course, Rolex isn’t a company that always does what you expect of them. While die-hard Explorer fans complimented Rolex for bringing back the Explorer in its original size, many enthusiasts have jumped at the chance to buy a 39-mm ref. 214270, and have thus caused prices to rise. Prices on Chrono24 have increased by 29% recently. Expect to pay around $9,500-13,000 for this watch, depending on its condition and whether the box and papers are included.  

Financial performance of the Rolex Explorer ref. 214270 
Financial performance of the Rolex Explorer ref. 214270

Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116718LN (+39% from March to July)   

The second Rolex watch I’d like to mention is the yellow gold Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116718LN. This unique GMT-Master II premiered in 2005 and features many Rolex firsts in terms of quality improvement: a new 40-mm super case, a better bracelet with gold center and end links, and a gold bezel with a black ceramic inlay. The standard version comes with a black dial and bezel, contrasting nicely with the gold case and bracelet. However, the version that has really appreciated is the one with a green anniversary dial. The combination of black, green, and yellow gold is simply spectacular. Prices have gone up on Chrono24 by 39%. You can now find the green anniversary version listed for roughly $53,000 – talk about appreciation!

Financial performance of the Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116718LN  
Financial performance of the Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116718LN

Rolex Datejust Ref. 6917 (+8% from March to July)  

While a price increase of 8% may not seem like much compared to other Rolex references, I’d still like to mention the ladies’ Rolex Datejust ref. 6917. This iconic 26-mm watch dates back to the 1970s. It was produced in yellow gold, white gold, or a two-tone mix of gold and steel. Every watch comes with a fluted bezel and the iconic Rolex Cyclops lens. One thing that makes searching for the Datejust ref. 6917 so fun is the wide variety of semi-precious stone dials (e.g., coral, malachite, and agate), all of which have become more desirable over time. They add color, texture, and an overall unique look to each watch. Moreover, this specific reference has always been an affordable option for buying a ladies’ Datejust in precious metal. Prices for two-tone models start around $3,000, while the gold variants are priced closer to $5,300 – in other words, very affordable for a gold watch. Considering the price range and the number of models on the market, an increase of 8% is still significant growth.  

Financial performance of the Rolex Datejust ref. 6917 (+8%) 
Financial performance of the Rolex Datejust ref. 6917 (+8%)

Did you know that more affordable Rolexes have also appreciated significantly in value? If you’re on the market for an affordable watch, you might consider buying a less popular model from a major brand. Either way, happy hunting! 

Read more

Investing in Watches: Is there ever a “best” time to buy a watch?

Three Watches Under $6,000 With Good Value Retention: Follow-Up

Frank Sinatra and Bulova: An Ongoing Courtship


About the Author

Jorg Weppelink

Hi, I'm Jorg, and I've been writing articles for Chrono24 since 2016. However, my relationship with Chrono24 goes back a bit longer, as my love for watches began …

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