Feature: These 5 watches were discontinued in 2022. Wrong move!
Last year, as with every year, a number of watches slipped off the horological radar, possibly never to be manufactured again. While many of these models barely made a mark in the first place, there are some to whom we say farewell with a tinge of regret—especially as it now means they’ll be harder to get hold of. We’re not sure these brands have done the right thing by discontinuing these five watches but, hey, they were fun while they lasted!
Rolex Day-Date 40 Platinum 228206
This stunning platinum Day-Date with its ice-blue dial and smooth bezel—reference 228206—is a hot favourite among Rolex aficionados yet it was axed from the collection last year. It was replaced with the 228236 which features a fluted bezel instead. Whatever version you prefer, we think the 228206 offered a cleaner more understated appeal. Ideally, Rolex would have included both models in its line-up.
Patek Philippe Calatrava 5196
Image courtesy of Bonhams
Patek Philippe without the Calatrava would be like Thor without his hammer or Porsche without its 911. Thankfully, they haven’t dispensed with their flagship model entirely, but they have dropped the beautiful 5196 reference. The platinum version of this, with its concentric dial and Breguet numerals, was perhaps the best-looking Calatrava ever made and hugely desirable. It leaves the hobnail-bezeled reference 6119 as the brand’s remaining Calatrava model with a small seconds.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202ST Jumbo
Back in 2021 Audemars Piguet CEO, François Bennahmias, announced that the steel Royal Oak Jumbo would be discontinued in 2022 and replaced with a new model—the 16202. The original Jumbo, though, reference 15202, was released in 2012 to celebrate the Royal Oak’s 40th anniversary and it was considered one of the closest iterations of the original 1972 version of the Royal Oak, the 5402. If you want a Royal Oak that’s this close to Genta’s. original, then, you’ll be praying this one makes a comeback.
Rolex Cellini 50509
2022 was the year we almost saw the Cellini line vanish from Rolex’s offering, with four out of five models getting the chop. One of the unlucky models to go was the Cellini 50509, a stunning time-only dress watch in white-gold and on a black leather strap. The understated look of this piece sets it apart from the rest of Rolex’s catalogue and it’s something we hope is revived in the future—unlikely, knowing Rolex’s refusal to hark back to the past.
Omega CK859
You’d be forgiven if the Omega CK859 slipped under your radar as it was only in production for around a measly six months before being discontinued. However, we think this numbered edition piece deserved an extended stay in Omega’s line-up. Its charming vintage style was inspired by an Omega watch from 1939, and it features a stainless-steel case and dial, plus gorgeous blued steel hands. This Omega stood out thanks to its subtle design and that’s exactly why we love it.
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