The Rolex Yacht-Master, a watch synonymous with luxury, nautical adventure, and impeccable craftsmanship, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Within the Yacht-Master family, the 35mm mid-size reference 168628, crafted in 18k yellow gold, stands out as a particularly elegant and sought-after piece. However, determining its original retail price and understanding its current market value requires a nuanced understanding of the watch's history, the fluctuating nature of the luxury watch market, and the factors that influence pricing.
Understanding the Rolex Yacht-Master 168628 (35mm)
Before diving into price discussions, it's crucial to understand the watch itself. The Rolex Yacht-Master 168628 is a mid-size model, measuring 35mm in diameter, making it a versatile option for both men and women with smaller wrists. Its case is constructed from 18k yellow gold, exuding a classic and opulent aura. The watch features a unidirectional rotatable bezel, a hallmark of the Yacht-Master line, typically graduated in minutes for timing regattas and other nautical activities. The dial is often presented in a variety of colors, including black, white, and blue, with luminous hour markers and hands for excellent legibility in varying light conditions. Powering this timepiece is a self-winding mechanical movement, typically the caliber 2235, known for its reliability and precision. The bracelet is typically an Oyster bracelet in 18k yellow gold, offering comfort and durability.
The Elusive Retail Price: A Historical Perspective
Pinpointing the exact original retail price of the Rolex Yacht-Master 168628 is challenging. Rolex, like many luxury brands, doesn't publicly archive its historical pricing data. Retail prices were subject to fluctuations based on several factors: currency exchange rates, inflation, regional variations, and the specific retailer. Furthermore, the watch was likely produced over a period of years, with price adjustments occurring during its production lifespan.
However, by examining historical price listings from authorized dealers, auction records (though often reflecting inflated prices), and forums dedicated to Rolex collectors, we can build a reasonable estimate. Based on this research, the original retail price of the Rolex Yacht-Master 168628 (35mm) likely ranged from approximately $8,000 to $12,000 USD in the years it was produced. This estimate is a broad range, and the actual price would have varied depending on the factors mentioned earlier. It's important to remember that this figure reflects the price at the time of purchase; the purchasing power of this amount would be significantly higher today due to inflation.
Current Market Value: Factors Influencing Price
The current market value of a pre-owned Rolex Yacht-Master 168628 deviates significantly from its original retail price. Several key factors influence its current value:
* Condition: The condition of the watch is paramount. A watch in pristine, unworn condition with original box and papers will command a significantly higher price than one showing signs of wear, scratches, or missing components. A professional service history positively impacts value.
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