Which Three Rolex Watches Have Risen the Most in Value Over the Last Five Years?

Even in an era of fluctuating luxury watch prices, Rolex continues to stand tall as both a symbol of prestige and a shrewd investment. While markets shift, the allure of the crowned Swiss brand remains unwavering. Based on recent data, three Rolex models have delivered the most remarkable appreciation in value over the past five years – and one of them might surprise even seasoned collectors.

1. Rolex Daytona – Up 88%
   Leading the list by a wide margin is the legendary Rolex Daytona, specifically the reference 116515LN, featuring a striking white dial framed by an Everose gold case. Over the past five years, this icon of motorsport-inspired luxury has seen its price soar by approximately 88%.

It’s hardly shocking that the fake Rolex Daytona tops the chart. Since its debut in 1963, the model has embodied the spirit of endurance racing and refined precision. Its blend of chronograph performance and timeless aesthetics has cemented it as one of the most coveted Rolex collections of all time. What is remarkable, however, is that all three leading spots in appreciation belong to the Daytona family.

Second place goes to the ref. 116519 in white gold with a crisp white dial, followed closely by the ref. 116518 in yellow gold paired with a black dial. Each variation carries the unmistakable charm of the Daytona line – robust, sporty, and irresistibly luxurious.

Collectors often divide the Daytona’s legacy into two eras: the early hand-wound references (1963-1988) and the modern automatic models. Vintage hand-wound versions, such as the refs. 6262 and 6265, have become legends in their own right. The mythical Paul Newman Daytona, with its art-deco dial and celebrity provenance, now commands prices exceeding $200,000, while standard stainless steel models start around $60,000. In every generation, the Daytona remains a benchmark for performance and value alike.

2. Rolex Air-King – Up 73%
   In second place, and perhaps the most unexpected entry, is the Rolex Air-King ref. 114200, which has appreciated an impressive 73%. Once dismissed as a modest entry-level Rolex, the Air-King has transformed from underdog to collector’s favorite.

First introduced in 1945 as a tribute to British Royal Air Force pilots, the Air-King has quietly evolved over the decades while retaining its aviation roots. The ref. 114200, distinguished by its 34-mm case and vibrant green dial, exemplifies Rolex’s understated craftsmanship. Despite its simplicity, the model radiates a vintage charm that modern enthusiasts have come to appreciate deeply.

When Rolex unveiled the ref. 116900 in 2016, featuring a bold dial layout and larger 40-mm case, it reignited discussion among collectors. Some admired its new spirit, others missed the minimalist appeal of older references – but the debate only heightened its visibility. The Air-King’s steady climb in value reflects both this renewed interest and the growing appreciation for Rolex’s once-overlooked classics.

3. Rolex Oysterquartz – Up 71%
   Rounding out the list is another dark horse: the Rolex Oysterquartz ref. 17000, which has risen 71% in value. The Oysterquartz stands as a fascinating relic of the 1970s, when the watch industry faced the so-called “quartz crisis.”

Unlike most replica Rolex models, the Oysterquartz featured a sharp, angular case design – a departure from the brand’s typical rounded silhouettes. Its integrated bracelet and polished edges reflected the bold aesthetic of its time. Beneath the surface, Rolex’s caliber 5035 quartz movement showcased mechanical precision blended with electronic innovation. The movement’s hybrid construction, using components from Rolex’s automatic caliber 3035, made it exceptionally reliable and surprisingly easy to service. More information can be found at https://www.replicaimitation.com.

Though once overshadowed by its mechanical siblings, the Oysterquartz has recently found new appreciation among collectors. Its distinctive design, rarity, and historical significance have driven a resurgence of interest, transforming it from an outlier into a true collectible.

From the Daytona’s timeless glamour to the Air-King’s unexpected renaissance and the Oysterquartz’s rediscovered brilliance, these three watches highlight how diverse the paths to appreciation can be within Rolex’s lineup. Whether powered by intricate mechanical craftsmanship or bold design history, each model tells a story of innovation, resilience, and enduring value – the very qualities that continue to make Rolex an icon of modern horology.