The 5 Most Undervalued Rolex Models in 2025

Hidden gems. Strong upside. Still under the radar.

Not every Rolex has to cost $30,000 to be a smart investment. Some references fly under the radar — even as they deliver serious long-term value and appreciation potential.

At Investment Watches, we analyze real-world market data across thousands of transactions. These five models are still relatively affordable in 2025 — but may not stay that way for long.

1. Rolex Explorer I 36mm (Ref. 124270)

• Market Price: ~$7,500

• Why It’s Undervalued: The Explorer I is the original Rolex tool watch. With a clean 36mm profile and strong historical lineage, it’s still available below $8k — but the demand for classic, simple models is growing quickly.

2. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36mm (Ref. 126000)

• Market Price: ~$6,600–$8,000 (depending on dial color)

• Why It’s Undervalued: Discontinued dial colors like Coral Red and Tiffany Blue are already climbing in value. Even current dials have become status symbols. This is Rolex minimalism at its finest — and a prime candidate for appreciation.

3. Rolex Milgauss Z-Blue (Ref. 116400GV)

• Market Price: ~$10,000–$11,000

• Why It’s Undervalued: Now discontinued, the Milgauss Z-Blue with its electric green crystal and blue dial was one of the boldest Rolexes ever made. Expect prices to rise as collectors realize this was a one-of-a-kind design.

4. Rolex Air-King (Ref. 126900)

• Market Price: ~$8,000–$9,000

• Why It’s Undervalued: The redesigned Air-King blends pilot watch vibes with Explorer-style toughness. It’s still not universally loved — which is exactly why it’s a smart buy now, before market sentiment shifts.

5. Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Rhodium (Ref. 126622)

• Market Price: ~$13,000–$14,500

• Why It’s Undervalued: The platinum bezel and ice-blue second hand make this one of the most refined sport Rolexes ever made. Discontinued in 2022, prices are creeping upward — but still below where they could go long-term.

⚠️ What Makes a Rolex Undervalued?

• Limited production or discontinued status

• Unique dial or case combinations

• Growing secondary market demand

• Historical significance

Each of these Rolex models checks multiple boxes — and most still sit under $15,000. If you're looking to buy before the crowd catches on, now is the time.