The Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer" – a name evocative of its rich brown and gold bi-color bezel – has cemented its place as a highly sought-after watch within the Rolex ecosystem. But which specific iteration of this coveted timepiece commands the most market share? The answer is complex, influenced by a confluence of factors including release date, availability, condition, and, of course, price. This article delves into the world of the Rolex Root Beer, exploring the different versions, their market performance, and the factors driving their respective demand.
The Genesis of the Legend: The Original Root Beer and its Modern Revival
Before we dive into sales comparisons, it's crucial to understand the history of the Root Beer. The original Root Beer GMT-Master, references 1675/3 and 16750, were produced from the late 1970s to the early 1980s. These vintage pieces, with their distinctive brown and gold bezels and often featuring a "Pepsi" style insert, are highly collectible and command significant premiums on the secondary market. Their scarcity, coupled with their undeniable aesthetic appeal, contributes to their high desirability. Finding a used Rolex Root Beer from this era, let alone one in pristine condition, is a challenge, and their prices reflect this rarity. Searching for "used Rolex Root Beer for sale" will quickly reveal the steep asking prices for these vintage models.
In 2018, Rolex breathed new life into the legend with the introduction of the reference 126711CHNR GMT-Master II. This modern iteration pays homage to its predecessors, retaining the iconic brown and gold Cerachrom bezel but incorporating updated movement technology and case refinements. This reintroduction sparked a renewed surge in interest in the Root Beer, making it one of the most sought-after Rolex models on the market. The impact of this launch is substantial; searches for "used Rolex GMT Root Beer" now frequently yield results for both vintage and modern examples, blurring the lines between historical significance and contemporary desirability.
Modern vs. Vintage: A Tale of Two Root Beers
The primary battle for market share within the Root Beer family is between the modern reference 126711CHNR and the vintage predecessors. While precise sales figures are unavailable publicly, anecdotal evidence from dealers, auction results, and online forums strongly suggests that the modern Root Beer (ref. 126711CHNR) currently enjoys significantly higher sales volume. This is attributable to several key factors:
* Availability: Unlike the vintage models, which are limited to the number produced decades ago, the modern Root Beer is (relatively) more readily available, albeit still subject to significant waiting lists at authorized dealers. This increased supply translates to higher sales figures. The search term "used Rolex Root Beer" often yields more results for the modern reference than its vintage counterparts.
* Price Point (Relative): While the modern Root Beer commands a high price – the "Rolex Root Beer retail price" is substantial – it's still generally less expensive than perfectly preserved vintage examples. This makes it accessible to a broader range of collectors, further driving sales. The price differential is particularly noticeable when comparing the price in different regions; a search for "Rolex Root Beer price UK" might reveal slightly different pricing compared to the US or other markets.
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