Do you happen to have a Rolex Yacht Master II or Datejust with Palm Motif on your hands? Chances are, if you want to capitalize on them, it might be a good time to sell, since Rolex has just announced it’s discontinuing these models
The most anticipated event on every watch enthusiast’s calendar – Watches and Wonders – brought with it, along with a plethora of new launches from both legacy and indie watchmakers (which you can read all about in our detailed report), a sweeping discontinuation of certain timepieces. Rolex is one maison that, in line with the time-honored tradition, once again announced the models it will no longer manufacture.
Here’s an overview of all the discontinued Rolex models:
Discontinued Rolex Yacht-Master II Collection
In 1992, Rolex released the Yacht-Master, a watch that seemed to piggyback on the success of its first nautical-inspired timepiece, the Submariner. This new model boasted several changes, including a larger size of 39.5mm and an etched bezel insert permanently affixed to the bezel. The hands and markers were also increased in size, while the edges were smoothed and rounded for sturdiness and durability - qualities synonymous with all Rolex watches. The triple-lock crown ensured water resistance up to 330 feet. In 1994, two new editions were introduced – a mid-sized 35mm reference for the Asian market and a 29mm version for women. Five years later, Rolex elevated the Yacht-Master's design by introducing a stainless steel and platinum version at the Basel Fair.
Discontinued Rolex Datejust 36 with Palm Motif and Fluted Dials
The Rolex Palm Motif and Fluted Datejust collections, beloved by watch enthusiasts for their intricate laser-etched dials, have been discontinued. Some speculate that this decision may indicate a waning interest in such ornate timepieces, while others argue it is simply the end of an era for these iconic Rolex models. The former models were dubbed "The Jungle Datejust" for their metallic palm motifs in varying shades of green, creating an asymmetrical and captivating design. The variations of such designs were, of course, nearly endless – the Fluted and Palm dials came also in gold and silver colors with the latter also presented in stunning midnight blue. But with their discontinuation, we bid farewell to this defining era in Rolex's history and only hope for it to somehow resume in new and unexpected ways.
Discontinued Rolex Daytona Le Mans
When the highly-anticipated Rolex Daytona Le Mans was finally revealed in 2023, it was a momentous occasion. Not only was it a rare special edition from the Swiss powerhouse, but it also commemorated the brand's partnership with the legendary endurance race. However, just months after its release, Rolex decided to discontinue the white gold version. Perhaps it was because the watch was created to celebrate the centennial anniversary of Le Mans, which had now passed in 2024. But this unexpected move has left collectors scrambling for the coveted timepiece, and prices on the gray market are sure to skyrocket. To add even more intrigue, Rolex has announced a new yellow-gold version in its place.
Discontinued Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea
Many of us have caught the yellow gold Deepsea at Watches & Wonders 2024, which signaled a significant change within their renowned Sea-Dweller collection. The highly-desirable Deepsea will now stand on its own as a distinguished collection, with all previous models bearing the "SEA-DWELLER" name being discontinued. Although the reference number for the stainless steel Deepsea ref. 136660 remains unchanged, all dials released after 2024 will only feature the bold "DEEPSEA" inscription, including the classic black dial and the striking James Cameron blue-to-black gradient. A defining move for Rolex's future in watchmaking.
