rolex rootbeer discontinued | Rolex root beer

The horological world recently experienced a tremor, a quiet but significant shift in the landscape of coveted timepieces. The Rolex Root Beer, a model celebrated for its distinctive aesthetics and inherent charm, has been discontinued. While official announcements are often veiled in the typical Rolex mystique, the consensus among authorized dealers, collectors, and industry insiders points to the end of the line for this iconic GMT-Master II variation. This news, naturally, has sent ripples through the watch community, sparking discussions, debates, and a flurry of activity in the pre-owned market.

The Rolex Root Beer, in its various iterations, has always been more than just a watch; it's a statement, a conversation starter, and a symbol of refined taste. Its unique blend of Everose gold or Rolesor (a combination of Oystersteel and Everose gold) with a brown and black Cerachrom bezel, reminiscent of the classic soda, has earned it a devoted following. The discontinuation, therefore, is not merely the end of a model run, but the closing of a chapter in the rich and storied history of Rolex and its GMT-Master lineage.

A Deep Dive into the Root Beer's Appeal:

To truly understand the significance of the Root Beer's discontinuation, we need to delve into what made it so appealing in the first place. Several factors contributed to its enduring popularity:

* The Unique Color Scheme: The "Root Beer" moniker, while unofficial, perfectly encapsulates the watch's defining characteristic – its warm, inviting color palette. The combination of Everose gold or Rolesor with the brown and black bezel creates a visual harmony that is both luxurious and understated. This distinctive colorway sets it apart from other GMT-Master II models, offering a more sophisticated and less overtly sporty aesthetic.

* The Timeless Design: The GMT-Master II, in general, is a masterclass in design. Its robust Oyster case, legible dial, and iconic Mercedes hands have become instantly recognizable. The Root Beer variation builds upon this solid foundation, adding its own unique flair without compromising the core principles of functionality and legibility.rolex rootbeer discontinued

* The GMT Functionality: The GMT-Master II is, at its heart, a tool watch. Its ability to track two time zones simultaneously makes it invaluable for travelers and those who need to stay connected across different regions. This functionality, combined with the Root Beer's luxurious aesthetics, makes it a versatile timepiece suitable for both professional and leisure settings.

* The Rolex Legacy: Perhaps the most significant factor contributing to the Root Beer's appeal is its association with the Rolex brand. Rolex is synonymous with quality, precision, and prestige. Owning a Rolex is not just about owning a watch; it's about owning a piece of history and a symbol of achievement. The Root Beer, as a Rolex model, inherits this legacy and benefits from the brand's unwavering reputation.

* Evolution and Iterations: The Root Beer has seen several iterations over the years, each with its own subtle nuances and characteristics. From the vintage "Nipple Dial" models to the more modern Cerachrom bezel versions, each generation has contributed to the Root Beer's rich history and collectibility. This evolution has kept the model fresh and relevant, attracting both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the world of Rolex.

A Historical Perspective: Tracing the Root Beer's Lineage:

The story of the Rolex Root Beer begins in the 1960s with the reference 1675/3. This model, crafted in yellow gold and featuring a brown bezel and a brown "nipple dial" (so-called due to the raised gold hour markers), laid the foundation for the Root Beer's distinctive aesthetic. It was a departure from the more traditional GMT-Master color schemes and quickly gained a following among those seeking a more sophisticated and luxurious travel companion.

Over the years, the Root Beer evolved through various references, including the 16753 and the 16713, each building upon the previous model's design and incorporating new technologies and materials. These models continued to feature the signature brown bezel and gold accents, solidifying the Root Beer's identity as a distinct and desirable GMT-Master variation.

The most recent iteration of the Root Beer, the reference 126715CHNR (full Everose gold) and the 126711CHNR (Rolesor), introduced the Cerachrom bezel, a Rolex innovation that is highly scratch-resistant and virtually impervious to fading. These models also featured the upgraded Caliber 3285 movement, offering improved accuracy and a longer power reserve. These modern Root Beers represented the pinnacle of Rolex's engineering and design prowess, combining the model's classic aesthetic with cutting-edge technology.

The Impact of Discontinuation:

The discontinuation of the Rolex Root Beer is expected to have several significant impacts on the market:

* Increased Demand in the Pre-Owned Market: With no new Root Beer models being produced, demand for existing examples is likely to surge in the pre-owned market. Collectors and enthusiasts who missed the opportunity to purchase a new Root Beer will now be vying for available models, driving up prices and creating a more competitive buying environment.