Price 116234 vs. 126234

[San Andreas]

Hi Rolex enthusiasts!

Why does a Rolex 116234 from 2009 costs approx 8000 euros and a brand new Rolex 126234 with the same specs from 2022 costs approx 8300 euros? Why is the price difference so small?

Specs from both watches:
36mm - Black Dial - Baton Indices - White Gold Fluted Bezel - Jubilee Bracelet

[Driver8]

TBH a lot of older models go for more than the comparable current model's RRP, so in that respect the 116234 is something of a bargain!

Used pricing is simply a function of supply and demand; too many people seem to want Rolexes at the moment, which means they are harder to get new from AD's... hence used prices increase as they are more readily available to those who can afford them.

[HogwldFLTR]

Most people choose to go for the newer movement with the longer power reserve, 70 hours is well received.

[huncho]

aside from movements those 2 models are basically the same watch. also the 116 has a hidden clasp while the 126 doesn't. a lot of people prefer the hidden clasp so it brings the prices closer together

[Emery]

The 116 might have a roulette date wheel as well, if that’s something you’re after.

[chocopeluche]

you're comparing a used-market price with a manufacturer suggested retail price. Most ADs will not have any 126234 in stock if you were to walk in and try to buy, their used prices are somewhat higher 10-16k depending on dial.

[Chester01]

The fact is, very little of anything can be had an an AD now-so one has to may massively inflated prices at the gray. Used watches can be had, and are actually available and so almost all used Rolex has risen significantly as a result. Many will pay 8000 euro for a watch today, versus $8300 for a watch they cannot get. Now, at DSW one can get a 126234 alright ranging from 11,875 USD to 17k USD so, there is your answer.

[San Andreas]

Thank you all for answering! It's highly appreciated. It's clearer now.

Originally Posted by Emery

The 116 might have a roulette date wheel as well, if that’s something you’re after.

Yes, I really like the roulette date wheel!

[Michael T]

A little apples and oranges. But, the 116234 had the claspless super jubilee which looks better. Also the 126234 movement may be less reliable from some the posts here.

[Kenny G]

The 116234 has some special features as others have already mentioned:

The roulette date wheel (only came on certain dial colors), the awesome super jubilee bracelet (hidden clasp), and it also has slightly wider lugs which makes it wear slightly larger imo. The movement is also the older 3135 which some feel more comfortable with despite the lower power reserve.

Both are great watches but I much prefer the 116234.

[kopi-c]

Can I just buy the super jubilee bracelet (hidden clasp) from 116234 and swap out with the current DJ36 bracelet, 126234?

[Gerardus]

Hidden clasp and older 11 movement on the 116234 is perfect. No brainer for me