Discontinued Rolex 2026: Top 5 In-Demand References – Submariner 16610 & 16613 Lead

Discontinued Rolex Watches in 2026: The Five References Buyers Wanted Most

New data from Bob's Watches reveals which discontinued Rolex references are driving the pre-owned market in 2026. The results may surprise collectors – the most in-demand references aren't the rarest or most expensive, but rather accessible models that represent the most efficient answer to a straightforward want.

Key Findings from Bob's Watches Sales Data

According to Bob's Watches, the ranking is built on completed, shipped sales between January 1 and August 11, 2026. The methodology excludes cancelled orders, unshipped orders, and references still in production.

The Surprising Pattern: Four of Five Are Two-Tone Rolesor

One of the most striking findings is that four of the five leading references are Rolesor, Rolex's term for watches combining Oystersteel and 18K gold. This combination was designed to sit between steel and solid gold in both appearance and price, and decades later that positioning continues to drive demand.

As Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob's Watches, explained: "The caliber 3135 is one of the reasons these references keep selling. It ran for roughly thirty years, parts are available, and any good watchmaker knows it."

The Submariner 16613: Biggest Demand Increase

The Submariner 16613 recorded the sharpest demand increase, climbing from sixth position in 2025 to second in 2026. This 40mm two-tone dive watch with an aluminum bezel insert was produced from 1988 until 2009.

According to Bob's Watches data, the 16613 sold at a median of $12,570, with blue dial examples ("Bluesy") outselling black and carrying roughly a $1,000 median premium. The demand shift reflects buyer preference for the older proportions – the 16613 is the last two-tone Submariner with slim lugs and an aluminum insert.

Vintage Submariner References: The 16610 Story

The Submariner ref. 16610, produced from 1988 until 2010, climbed from fifth to fourth position. With a median sold price of $11,870, it remains the reference buyers name when they want "a Submariner that looks like a Submariner."

According to Bob's Watches: "Its successor is a heavier and broader watch. A meaningful group of buyers actively prefers the older shape rather than accepting it as a compromise."

Price vs. Demand: The Most Important Finding

The analysis reveals a crucial distinction: ranking by demand and ranking by price produce different lists. Only two references appear on both.

• Demand ranking: Dominated by accessible two-tone Datejusts
• Price ranking: Dominated by Submariners, GMT-Masters, and the Daytona 116500LN

The Rolex Daytona 116500LN sold at a median of $31,495 in 2026, ranking well outside the top ten on demand but near the top on price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes discontinued Rolex watches valuable?

Value in discontinued Rolex watches comes from a combination of factors: the caliber 3135's 30-year production run (ensuring serviceability), aluminum bezel inserts that develop desirable patina, and the older, slimmer case proportions many collectors prefer.

Are vintage Rolex Submariners good investments?

According to Bob's Watches, references like the 16610 and 16613 have shown steady demand. However, no watch guarantees a profit. Performance depends on condition, completeness, and market conditions. Visit our Rolex Investment Guide for detailed analysis.

What's the difference between the Submariner 16610 and 16613?

The 16610 is stainless steel with a black dial, while the 16613 is two-tone Rolesor (steel and 18K gold) available with black or blue dials. The 16613 commands a premium due to the gold content, with blue dial examples ("Bluesy") being particularly sought after.

Source: According to Bob's Watches sales data analysis, published August 27, 2026.