Rolex’s Latest Releases: What They Mean for Investors (2025)

Each year, Rolex’s unveiling at Watches & Wonders sets the tone for the entire luxury watch industry — and 2025 has proven no different. This year’s collection reflects a careful blend of innovation, nostalgia, and controlled risk-taking.

But beyond the excitement and aesthetic changes, investors are asking: Which of these new releases will hold or gain value over time?

Let’s break down Rolex’s latest 2025 models and what they mean for collectors and investors.

---

1️⃣ Rolex Submariner “Polar” – White Dial (Ref. 126610LN-W)

📌 What’s New:

For the first time in the Submariner’s history, Rolex introduced a white lacquer dial, dubbed the “Polar Sub.” It retains the 41mm Oystersteel case, Cerachrom bezel, and caliber 3235.

📈 Investor Outlook:

This is a major deviation from decades of black or green Submariners, creating significant buzz. The white dial is polarizing, but extremely collectible.

• Limited production window expected

• Strong hype and waitlists

• Early examples already selling at 20–30% premiums on the secondary market

Verdict: High potential for short-term flips and long-term desirability, especially if Rolex discontinues it in the next few years.

---

2️⃣ Daytona “Ice Panda” – Platinum with Ice Blue & Black Dial (Ref. 126506IP)

📌 What’s New:

Building on the success of platinum Daytonas, Rolex introduced a new version with an ice blue dial and black sub-dials — drawing comparisons to the “Panda” aesthetic.

📈 Investor Outlook:

As platinum Daytonas are already grail-tier watches, this new reference is ultra-luxury. Scarce availability and prestigious materials create a strong collector appeal.

Verdict: A long-term hold for seasoned collectors. Secondary market already showing 50%+ premiums over retail.

---

3️⃣ GMT-Master II “Rootbeer Reversed” – Everose Rolesor with Black & Rose Bezel (Ref. 126711RGR)

📌 What’s New:

This release inverts the popular “Rootbeer” color scheme — now with a predominantly black bezel and Everose gold accents, offering a more understated alternative to the original two-tone.

📈 Investor Outlook:

Initial demand is strong, especially in Asia and the U.S., where two-tone GMTs continue to trend. It won’t match the stainless steel GMTs in resale performance, but demand will outpace supply.

Verdict: A solid mid-term hold for investors who want a twist on a fan favorite.

---

4️⃣ Explorer 40 “Honeycomb” Dial – Full Yellow Gold (Ref. 226238)

📌 What’s New:

A bold move — the classic Explorer in 40mm yellow gold with a new “honeycomb” texture dial. It mixes vintage charm with modern shine.

📈 Investor Outlook:

This is a niche appeal release. While yellow gold is trending again in 2025, the Explorer is traditionally a tool watch. This blend may alienate purists but attract lifestyle buyers.

Verdict: Likely to be a sleeper hit. May appreciate steadily over time, especially in low production quantities.

---

5️⃣ Milgauss Discontinued — and Replacement Pending

📌 What’s New:

Rolex has quietly discontinued the Milgauss — sparking speculation of a future reissue or a new anti-magnetic model in the works.

📈 Investor Outlook:

Discontinued references like the 116400GV Z-Blue are already climbing in value, as collectors anticipate a modern replacement with a new movement and design.

Verdict: Strong upside on discontinued Milgauss models. Buy now if you want to secure one before prices spike further.

---

🏁 Final Thoughts: What This Means for Investors

Rolex’s 2025 lineup blends fresh aesthetics with deliberate scarcity — a winning formula for investment-minded collectors. Key takeaways:

• The “Polar Sub” and “Ice Panda Daytona” are the hottest references with both short-term hype and long-term potential.

• Discontinued models like the Milgauss are becoming more valuable.

• Experimental gold models may find niche investment success in the coming years.

As always, the best Rolex investments come down to rarity, design appeal, production window, and condition. At Investment Watches, we specialize in sourcing these strategic models — backed by market insight and expert authentication.