After every few years, watchmakers from around the world decide to discontinue some of their watch models. The idea behind this is to provide the market with upgraded versions of such watches. Discontinued watches also increase in demand as they become hard to find over time. Therefore, in 2023 we expect to see some renowned watch models discontinued, making room for newer models to arrive.

Discontinued watches in 2023

As we begin 2023, watchmakers worldwide are preparing to announce the discontinuation of popular watch models. Based on various reports and expert speculations, we think that the following

• Rolex Daytona reference 116500LN
• Patek Philippe Nautilus Moon Phase reference 5712
• Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Turquoise dial
• Rolex Milgauss reference 116400GV
• Omega Seamaster Professional Diver 300M 007 Edition

Rolex Daytona reference 116500LN

Watch experts predict that the brand will refresh the entire line of Rolex Daytona models in 2023. This prediction is made based on the fact that the Rolex Daytona entered its 60th year since its introduction.

There's a high possibility that Rolex will offer the latest Daytona watches in a slightly bigger case size coming in at 41 mm. Although the difference between a 41 mm and a 40 mm dial is marginal, it is still a significant update over the previous iteration.

In recent years, Rolex has adapted the practice of making minor updates in the newer models. Most of these updates are limited to the movement, with very few updates done to their designs.

Therefore, to commemorate the 60 years of Daytona's success, it is the perfect time to discontinue the previous model and bring a new version into the market. If you are interested in buying the older or discontinued version of used Rolex watches, you can always find one in the pre-owned market.

Patek Philippe Nautilus Moon Phase reference 5712

One of the oldest watchmakers in the world, Patek Philippe, is expected to discontinue the Nautilus Moon Phase 5712. Last year, the brand discontinued the Nautilus 5711 stainless steel version.

The Nautilus 5711 had two distinct variants that were extremely popular. These models include the Tiffany blue and stainless steel green dial versions. Therefore, the possibility of seeing a new Nautilus Moon Phase dial in a dual-tone color is high.

The real question is, will the new versions carry the same reference no.? It is because Patek Philippe is known to return older references with minor updates. Therefore, the chances of the reference number remaining steady are also possible.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Turquoise dial

This is the wildest guess we have taken, considering the popularity and value of the model. What many refer to as the Rolex Tiffany, based on its resembling Turquoise blue dial, is the most successful color variant in the Oyster Perpetual series.  

However, despite its popularity, Rolex discontinued the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 in Turquoise blue dial, including other colors like coral red and yellow. Having said that, Rolex decided to retain the Turquoise dial in the smaller 31 mm and 36 mm Oyster Perpetuals.

But based on the discontinuation of the 41 mm model, it's only likely that they will discontinue the 36 mm model. It is again a long shot, where Rolex may or may not discontinue the Oyster Perpetual 36 Turquoise dial.

The popularity of smaller Oyster Perpetual dial sizes

Another critical point to note regarding the Oyster Perpetual lineup of watches is that the watch is popular among women buyers. Due to the design and color options available, the watch is desirable by a sizable proportion of women clients.

Notably, the Turquoise dial of the Oyster Perpetual has gained significant popularity, especially in smaller dial sizes. Therefore, the chances that Rolex will retain the Turquoise blue dial in the 31 mm is high.

Rolex Milgauss reference 116400GV

The Rolex Milgauss is a less popular watch in the Rolex lineup. While there is no real reason why it is one of the least popular Swiss watches, the customers and the market determine the popularity of specific models. Therefore, one might wonder why Rolex would update the Milgauss 116400GV.

But our prediction is different. Rolex will likely update Milgauss based on the fact that the Rolex AirKing was recently updated. The Rolex AirKing and Milgauss shared the same case until it was recently updated in the AirKing.

The last time the Milgauss had a new variant was back in 2007. Therefore, it's high time for Rolex to bring out some more updates and spice up the demand for the Rolex Milgauss watches in 2023.

Omega Seamaster Professional-Diver 300M 007 Edition

The possibility that Rolex might discontinue the Omega Seamaster is based on the fact that the watch has its association with the James Bond movies. The Seamaster Professional-Diver 300M 007 was released in 2019, relating to the release of James Bond, No Time To Die.

However, due to the rise of the pandemic, fans only got to see the movie and this exquisite watch in 2021. Therefore, with the arrival of a new James Bond movie, the possibility that Rolex will discontinue the Professional-Diver 300M 007 and launch a new version is high.

What to expect in 2023

Now that you know the possible watches that might be discontinued in 2023. Let's refresh your mood with a list of new watches that you can expect this year.

• Panerai Luminor Luna Rossa
• Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Tapisserie dial
• Hermès Cape Cod Crepuscule
• Tag Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph
• Zenith Defy Extreme X Felipe Pantone
• Longines Spirit Zulu Time
• Montblanc Star Legacy Orbis Terrarum
• Girard-Perregaux Laureato
• Seiko Presage Takumi The Laurel Anniversary edition
• Avi-8 Watch X Royal British Legion

All of the above watches will be launched this year with new updates. More colors with internal changes can be expected in the aforementioned watches.

2023, Discontinued watches: A new year for watchmakers

The introduction and discontinuation of watches is a cycle that watchmakers follow. In order to make room for innovative and latest-developed technologies, watch brands must discontinue their older watches. From all the predictions we have made, Rolex is the one that we are most excited about.

What are your predictions for 2023? Which models do you expect will be discontinued? Let us know in the comments!

This is a sponsored guess post. 

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