The news has spread like wildfire through the watch collecting community: the Rolex Daytona 116500, in both its black ceramic bezel (116500LN) and white ceramic bezel (116500) variants, has been officially discontinued. For many, this announcement isn't just a minor update in the Rolex catalog; it's a significant event, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in the legend of the Daytona. For me, personally, this news has a unique resonance. With the discontinuation of the 116500 reference, my entire collection now consists solely of retired Rolex references, and, surprisingly, it’s none the worse for it.
This article will delve into the significance of the 116500's discontinuation, exploring its history, its impact on the market, and its legacy as a coveted collector's piece. We'll also examine its successor, the 126500, and consider why a collection composed entirely of discontinued models might be considered a badge of honour rather than a drawback. We'll touch upon the various price points, the current market value, and the reasons behind the fervent demand for both the 116500 and its discontinued predecessor models.
The Rolex 116500LN Discontinued: A Defining Era
The Rolex Daytona 116500LN, with its iconic black ceramic bezel, instantly became a grail watch for countless enthusiasts upon its release. Its sleek, modern design, combined with the robust and reliable movement within, made it a highly sought-after timepiece. The ceramic bezel, resistant to scratches and fading, represented a significant upgrade from its predecessors, offering both durability and a sophisticated aesthetic. Its popularity transcended mere horological appreciation; it became a symbol of status and achievement, further fueling the already intense demand.
The Rolex 116500, with its white ceramic bezel, followed suit, offering a slightly different aesthetic appeal but maintaining the same high-quality construction and impressive performance. Both models quickly became synonymous with Rolex’s commitment to excellence, precision, and enduring design. The use of the calibre 4130 movement, a self-winding chronograph movement, further cemented its position as a technological marvel within the world of luxury watches. This movement, with its superior precision and power reserve, provided a significant improvement over previous Daytona generations.
Rolex 116500LN Retail Price and the Secondary Market Boom:
The initial retail price of the Rolex 116500LN was already significantly higher than previous Daytona models, reflecting the increased cost of materials and the enhanced technological advancements. However, the retail price quickly became a mere suggestion, overshadowed by the burgeoning secondary market. The immense demand, coupled with limited availability (a hallmark of Rolex's strategy), led to significant price increases on the pre-owned market. Finding a 116500LN at its original retail price became virtually impossible, and even now, post-discontinuation, the prices remain impressively high. The scarcity factor, coupled with the knowledge that no more will be produced, has only served to increase its desirability and value.
Rolex Daytona 116500 Price: A Collector's Investment:
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