Top Discontinued Models Gaining Value Right Now

In the world of luxury watch collecting, discontinuation often leads to desirability. When a brand stops producing a model — whether it’s an iconic staple or a short-lived special edition — scarcity drives collectors to the secondary market, often pushing prices well above retail.

As of mid-2025, these are the top discontinued watch models seeing strong appreciation right now.

1️⃣ Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 “Tiffany Blue” – Ref. 124300

When Rolex discontinued the 41mm Oyster Perpetual in Tiffany Blue in 2022, demand exploded. This bold yet minimal dial color struck a chord with collectors and trended heavily on social media.

• Retail price (when new): ~$6,150

• Current market value: $28,000–$32,000+

• Why it’s rising: Viral popularity, limited production period, and connection to Rolex’s modern design experiments.

2️⃣ Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A (Green Dial)

The 5711 was already a collector’s darling, but the 2021 olive green dial send-off became an instant grail. Production lasted less than a year, creating intense demand.

• Retail price (when new): ~$35,000

• Current market value: $400,000–$500,000+

• Why it’s rising: End of an era for the steel Nautilus, extreme scarcity, and historic resale performance.

3️⃣ Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin – Ref. 15202ST

Discontinued in 2022 after 50 years of continuous production, the 15202ST was the direct descendant of the original Royal Oak.

• Retail price (when new): ~$33,200

• Current market value: $90,000–$120,000+

• Why it’s rising: Historical significance, direct link to Genta’s 1972 design, and relatively low production numbers.

4️⃣ Omega Speedmaster “Snoopy Award” 50th Anniversary – Ref. 310.32.42.50.02.001

Released in 2020 and produced for a limited time, this playful yet historically important Speedmaster celebrates NASA’s Silver Snoopy Award given to Omega in 1970.

• Retail price (when new): ~$9,600

• Current market value: $25,000–$30,000+

• Why it’s rising: Space heritage, creative caseback animation, and popularity among both Omega and NASA enthusiasts.

5️⃣ Rolex Milgauss – Ref. 116400GV “Z-Blue”

Discontinued in 2024, the Milgauss had been a quirky outsider in Rolex’s lineup with its green-tinted crystal and electric blue dial.

• Retail price (when new): ~$9,300

• Current market value: $14,000–$18,000+

• Why it’s rising: Unique design, niche appeal, and speculation about a possible future reissue.

Key Takeaways for Collectors

• Discontinued models often appreciate quickly — but not all will sustain their value.

• Focus on pieces with strong brand heritage, unique design elements, and low production numbers.

• Buy from trusted dealers to ensure authenticity and protect investment value.

At Investment Watches, we specialize in sourcing hard-to-find discontinued models and advising clients on timing their purchases for maximum return.