The year 2017 witnessed a seismic shift in the perception of Rolex watches as investments, propelled by a single, record-breaking auction. The sale of Paul Newman's personal Rolex Daytona for a staggering $17.8 million cemented the brand's position not just as a luxury timepiece manufacturer, but as a significant player in the collectible market. This unprecedented price tag highlighted the potential for substantial returns on certain Rolex models, prompting many to reconsider the brand as a viable investment strategy. But while the Newman Daytona remains an outlier, its impact reverberated throughout the market, influencing the perceived value and potential appreciation of other Rolex models. This article will delve into the best Rolex investments of 2017, considering the context of the market at the time and projecting forward to understand their performance in the years since. We'll also explore the broader question of Rolex as an investment, addressing common queries such as which Rolex watches appreciate the most, and whether a Rolex is ultimately "worth the money."
The Paul Newman Daytona Effect:
The sale of Paul Newman's Daytona wasn't just about the astronomical price; it was about the confluence of several factors that elevated its value beyond typical market expectations. The watch itself was a highly sought-after reference, the 6239, with its unique exotic dial. But more importantly, it was *Paul Newman's* watch, imbued with the legacy of a Hollywood icon and racing legend. This association with celebrity and provenance dramatically increased its desirability and, consequently, its price. While few Rolexes will ever reach such heights, the sale served as a powerful demonstration of the potential for significant appreciation in rare and highly collectible pieces.
Best Rolex Investments 2017: Beyond the Daytona
While replicating the success of the Newman Daytona is a near impossibility, several Rolex models enjoyed strong appreciation in 2017 and beyond. These weren't necessarily rare or limited editions, but rather models that combined enduring popularity with a consistent track record of demand:
* The Submariner: The Submariner, a Rolex icon, has consistently been a strong performer. Its robust design, association with diving and exploration, and enduring popularity across generations have made it a safe and reliable investment. The various references released throughout the years, particularly vintage models, have shown significant appreciation. In 2017, the desirability of specific references, especially those with certain dial variations or bracelet configurations, increased further.
* The GMT-Master II: Another highly sought-after model, the GMT-Master II, particularly the "Pepsi" bezel variant, has shown strong appreciation. Its functionality, appealing design, and association with travel and aviation have contributed to its enduring appeal. The fluctuating availability of certain references also played a role in increasing their value.
* Vintage Models: Generally, vintage Rolexes, especially those in excellent condition, tend to appreciate significantly more than their modern counterparts. Models like the vintage Datejust, Explorer, and even certain Day-Dates, all saw increased interest and value in 2017. The scarcity of these pieces, combined with the growing collector base, fueled their price growth.
Rolex that Appreciate the Most:
Identifying the Rolex watches that appreciate the most is a complex task. While the Paul Newman Daytona stands out as an extreme example, the general trend points towards rare and desirable vintage models, limited editions, and those with strong historical significance or celebrity association. However, even within these categories, the market is dynamic, and prices fluctuate based on condition, provenance, and overall market sentiment.
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