Feature: Discontinued Rolexes we wish made a comeback
With its never-ending quest for improvement and the constant drip-feed of new models, it’s inevitable that Rolex has to discontinue a few favourites from time to time. With that said, let’s take a look at some of the Crown’s best pieces that have sadly faced the chop.
Rolex Cellini
The Cellini, which debuted in the mid-1970s, has always been one of Rolex’s dressier offerings, so it was a shame to see this one dropped from its catalogue earlier this year. It did, however, get replaced by the new and similar 1908 line. Elegant and understated, it’s the perfect watch for fancy occasions.
Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 LN
GMT-Masters are renowned for their striking bezel colour combinations, such as the red and blue “Pepsi” version, however this all-black-bezelled GMT-Master II is understated in comparison—but that’s why we love it. Teamed with a black dial and a green GMT hand, this model is especially desirable as there is nothing like it in Rolex’s current line-up.
Rolex Air-King 116900
Rolex released this great updated version of the Air-King at BaselWorld in 2016. It refreshes the classic look, upgrading size, durability and calibre precision while staying true to its aviation heritage via elements such as the classic 1950s Air-King font. As one of its longest continuously manufactured and affordable watches, the Air-King is a beloved Rolex staple.
Rolex Yacht-Master 16622
The Yacht-Master, released in 1992 after Rolex made a couple of rarely seen prototypes in the 1960s, was designed with the intention of creating a more luxurious version of the Submariner—and this stunning platinum and steel model delivers. It features a platinum dial with a contrasting red lollipop seconds hand, the latter providing a welcome pop of colour.
Rolex Turn-O-Graph
The Turn-O-Graph—known in the US as the “Thunderbird”—is a well-known discontinued Rolex, one which often finds itself on lists like this. Formerly part of the Datejust line, this model is made from steel and white gold, and features a black dial with red seconds hand and lettering spelling out its name above 6 o’clock.
Rolex Daytona 116505
The Daytona is an incredibly popular Rolex and this rose gold and chocolate number, although discontinued, isn’t one to be forgotten. The luxurious chocolate-brown dial is unusual thanks to its large Arabic numerals, instead of the Daytona’s typical baton hour markers, while the rose-gold subdials, Rolex logo and branding pop against the dial.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 124300
Considered the brand’s entry-level piece, the humble Oyster Perpetual is a great choice for those after a piece of the Rolex action without having to part with the deposit for your house. This 41mm model is an ideal bit of wrist candy for summer thanks to its standout sunny-yellow dial. This is sure to put a smile on the face of everyone you meet.
