Three Rolex Models That Could Spike in Value by 2026

Predicting future value in the luxury watch market is never an exact science, but Rolex has a long history of creating models that appreciate thanks to controlled supply, global demand, and powerful brand equity.

As the market stabilizes after recent volatility and collectors become more selective, certain references stand out as strong candidates for price growth heading into 2026.

Among them, three Rolex models consistently attract attention from enthusiasts, dealers, and investors alike.

The Rolex GMT-Master II remains one of the strongest pillars of the modern Rolex lineup and is widely expected to continue appreciating. Originally designed for professional pilots, the GMT-Master II has evolved into a cultural icon, particularly in stainless steel versions with distinctive ceramic bezels such as the red and blue “Pepsi” or the black and blue “Batman.”
These watches combine daily wearability with genuine tool-watch heritage, which keeps demand high across both new buyers and seasoned collectors. Supply remains tightly controlled at authorized dealers, pushing many buyers to the secondary market where prices often sit above retail.
As Rolex is likely to implement further retail price increases and global travel demand continues to rebound, the GMT-Master II is well positioned for another upward move by 2026.

The Rolex GMT-Master II has a rich history on the wrists of both iconic figures and modern stars. The classic GMT lineage goes back decades and has appeared in the hands of revolutionary Che Guevara and on the wrist of Bruce Springsteen, who’s frequently spotted wearing a black and blue GMT-Master II.

A more modern but equally intriguing contender is the Rolex GMT-Master II “Sprite,” instantly recognizable by its green and black bezel and left-handed crown configuration. Introduced as a bold design departure, the Sprite initially divided opinion, but that controversy has only fueled interest.
Rolex models that break convention often age well in the collector world, especially when production numbers remain relatively low.
The Sprite appeals not only to left-handed wearers but also to collectors who value unusual references that stand out within a conservative brand. If Rolex discontinues or subtly revises this configuration in the coming years, scarcity could drive a significant premium, making the Sprite a strong candidate for appreciation by 2026.

The Rolex GMT-Master II “Sprite” has also gained celebrity attention. British footballer Declan Rice was seen wearing this distinctive left-handed timepiece while accepting an award, and Zlatan Ibrahimović wore it during AC Milan’s Scudetto celebrations. French football star Karim Benzema joined in on the trend as well, flashing his Sprite after a Champions League victory.
World-renowned tennis legend and Rolex ambassador Roger Federer has also been spotted wearing the Sprite, further amplifying its cachet in collector circles.

Moving away from stainless steel, the Rolex Day-Date in Yellow gold, particularly reference 228238, represents a different but equally compelling value story. Known as the “President,” the Day-Date has long been Rolex’s flagship model, worn by world leaders, executives, and tastemakers. Unlike steel sports watches, its value is closely tied to both prestige and precious metal prices. 
As gold prices trend upward and Rolex continues to raise prices on gold models more aggressively than steel, the Day-Date benefits from a powerful combination of intrinsic material value and brand-driven desirability.
By 2026, rising production costs and luxury market resilience could push this reference significantly higher than today’s levels.

Stars like Jennifer Aniston have been known to wear Day-Date models, and at big sporting events, personalities such as Nick Jonas have been spotted with classic Day-Date pieces, tying this luxurious line to high fashion and high visibility occasions.

While no watch investment is guaranteed, these three models share key traits that historically support appreciation: limited supply, strong brand recognition, and sustained global demand.
The GMT-Master II anchors the sports watch category, the Sprite offers modern rarity with long-term collector appeal, and the Day-Date Everose delivers prestige backed by precious metal value.

For collectors looking beyond short-term hype and focusing on 2026 and beyond, these Rolex models are well worth watching.