Price charts and predictions for Rolex Daytona in 2025

Quick backstory: The Daytona came out in the 1960s, designed for racecar drivers. It wasn’t flashy back then—it was more like a cool, functional tool for timing laps. But over the years, it turned into this must-have item, partly because of its clean design and partly because Rolex doesn’t make enough of them to satisfy demand.

And then there’s the Paul Newman factor. His version of the Daytona, with its funky dial, went from being “just a watch” to a full-on collector’s item. That auction price of $17.8 million basically sent the world a message: Daytonas aren’t just watches, they’re status symbols.

If you’re trying to pick up a Daytona right now, here’s the lowdown:

• Retail prices: Stainless steel models start around $14,550, but that’s if you’re lucky enough to get one directly from Rolex.
• The real story: Most people end up buying on the secondary market, where prices are way higher.Here’s what we’re seeing:
• Stainless steel Daytonas are going for $25,000 or more.
• Rarer models, especially vintage ones, can hit $200,000 or even higher.Basically, if you want one, you’re going to have to pay a premium unless you’re super patient—or super lucky.

Daytonas have always been a hot commodity, but prices have seriously taken off over the last decade or so. Here’s a quick look at how things have played out:

• • 2010: A stainless steel Daytona retailed for about $8,000. If you wanted one from the secondary market, it might’ve set you back $10,000–12,000.
  • 2016: Rolex dropped the Ref. 116500LN with the ceramic bezel, and the retail price was $12,400. But they were selling for double that almost immediately.
  • 2021–2023: During the pandemic, luxury watch prices skyrocketed. Stainless steel Daytonas were hitting $50,000 on the secondary market. It was wild.
  • 2024: Things cooled off a bit, but prices are still high. Stainless steel models are now in the $25,000–40,000 range, depending on the condition and demand.

Alright, so what’s likely to happen with Daytona prices this year? Here’s what makes sense:

Stainless Steel Models Are Still the Big Deal
The Ref. 116500LN, with its clean black or white dial and ceramic bezel, is still the one everyone wants. Rolex isn’t making more than they usually do, so demand is going to stay high.

• • Right now: $25,000–35,000
  • Prediction: $30,000–40,000

Let’s break it down:

• • Rolex’s strategy: They keep production low on purpose, so there’s always more demand than supply. It’s frustrating but genius.
  • Pop culture: Every time a celeb wears a Daytona, the hype goes up another notch.
  • Quality: Say what you will, but these watches are built to last. They’re not just good-looking; they’re ridiculously well-made.

If you’re into the idea of making a move, here’s what to consider:

• • Buying: If you’ve been thinking about grabbing a stainless steel Daytona, don’t wait. Prices aren’t going to drop.
  • Selling: If you’ve got something rare, 2025 might be the year to cash in. Prices are high, and collectors are ready to spend.
  • Holding: Already own one? Keep it safe. These watches are only going to become more valuable.