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From Pandas to Pepsi: A Guide to Rolex Nicknames
Discover the iconic nicknames of Rolex models, from Pandas to Hulks and Batmans. Our expert guide unpacks the stories behind these beloved watches.
Rolex has long been at the forefront of luxury watchmaking, crafting some of the most iconic and sought-after timepieces in history. Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, the brand revolutionized horology with innovations such as the first waterproof wristwatch, the Oyster, and the Perpetual self-winding movement. Over the decades, Rolex has become synonymous with precision, durability, and timeless style, earning a devoted following among collectors and enthusiasts.
With such a legacy, it’s no surprise that many Rolex models have been given affectionate nicknames, inspired by everything from superheroes and soft drinks to an iconic frog. These monikers have become an integral part of Rolex culture, reflecting the passion and creativity of the watch community. Drawing on their deep expertise, Sotheby’s global network of watch specialists has curated this guide to 18 of the most essential Rolex nicknames every collector should know.
Rolex Daytona
Rolex Daytona Paul Newman
What defines a Rolex Daytona as a Paul Newman? The distinction lies in the dial. Characterized by its unique design, featuring contrasting sub-dials, square-block markers, and an art-deco-style font, this variation of the Daytona became synonymous with the legendary Hollywood actor and racing enthusiast Paul Newman. Known for his passion for motorsports, Newman famously wore a Daytona with this distinctive dial, cementing its place in watchmaking history. Over time, collectors began referring to all vintage Daytonas with similar dial configurations as Paul Newmans, elevating their desirability and market value. In fact, the most expensive Rolex ever sold at auction is none other than Paul Newman’s own Daytona, a timepiece that continues to define the pinnacle of vintage Rolex collecting.
Rolex Daytona John Player
Another legendary motorsport-inspired Rolex, the John Player Special Daytona, is among the most coveted vintage timepieces. This rare edition was named after the British tobacco company John Player & Sons, whose sponsorship of the Lotus Formula One team in the 1970s led to one of the most iconic racing liveries of all time. Featuring a striking black and gold color scheme that mirrors the sleek aesthetics of the JPS Lotus F1 cars, this Daytona stands out as a true collector’s piece.
Renowned for its rarity and bold design, the John Player Special Daytona holds a revered status among watch enthusiasts. In June 2021, Sotheby’s New York auctioned an exceptional example—the Rolex Daytona Paul Newman John Player Special—a yellow gold chronograph that achieved an impressive $625,000, further cementing its place as one of the most desirable vintage Rolex watches ever made.
Rolex Panda
Originally designed as the ultimate tool watch for professional race car drivers, the Rolex Daytona Panda has become one of the most recognizable and sought-after timepieces in horology. Since its debut in 1963, this legendary chronograph has graced the wrists of motorsport professionals, athletes, celebrities, and collectors—including the iconic Paul Newman, whose association with the model further elevated its status.
The Panda nickname stems from the watch’s striking monochrome aesthetic, featuring a crisp white dial contrasted by black sub-dials, reminiscent of a panda’s face. This signature design, often paired with an Art Deco-inspired dial and a steel bezel, has cemented its place in Rolex history. Today, the modern Rolex Panda (Ref. 116500LN) remains one of the most in-demand luxury watches in the world.
Rolex Daytona Zenith
Between 1988 and 2000, Rolex equipped its Daytona chronographs with the renowned Zenith El Primero movement, a high-beat automatic caliber developed by Swiss watchmaker Zenith. This partnership gave rise to the Rolex Zenith Daytona (Ref. 16520 and beyond), a series that evolved through five distinct iterations before Rolex introduced its in-house movement in 2000.
Collectors highly prize these models for their historical significance, precision, and unique movement. Early examples are especially coveted for their distinctive inverted six on the bottom sub-dial, a subtle but sought-after detail. The Zenith Daytona is available in a range of configurations, including stainless steel, yellow gold, and rose gold, often paired with classic black or white Panda dials.
Rolex Daytona Rainbow
Bold and impossible to overlook, the Rolex Rainbow Cosmograph Daytona dazzles with 36 baguette-cut sapphires in a perfect gradient on the bezel and 56 diamonds adorning the mid-case. First unveiled at Baselworld 2012, its vibrant design divided opinions but quickly became one of Rolex’s most coveted timepieces. Due to the brand’s exacting standards for gemstone selection, the Rainbow Daytona is produced in extremely limited quantities, ensuring its exclusivity and high value. Its popularity has been fueled by collectors like John Mayer, as well as sports icons such as Virat Kohli and David Beckham, solidifying its status as a true statement piece.
Rolex GMT Master II
Rolex Batman
The Rolex GMT-Master II Batman is a true standout, featuring a striking black and blue ceramic bezel reminiscent of Gotham’s legendary crime-fighter. Introduced in 2013 as Reference 116710BLNR, it quickly gained cult status among collectors. Designed for world travelers, it boasts advanced dual-time functionality, including a rotatable 24-hour bezel and an additional 24-hour hand for tracking multiple time zones. With its bold aesthetics and exceptional utility, the Batman remains one of the most sought-after GMT-Master II models, consistently commanding a premium on the collector’s market.
Rolex Batgirl
A close counterpart to the Rolex Batman, the Rolex Batgirl is another GMT-Master II featuring the same striking black and blue ceramic bezel. However, what sets it apart is its elegant Jubilee bracelet, offering a more refined and sophisticated look compared to the sportier Oyster bracelet of the Batman. Favored by collectors for its blend of functionality and style, the Batgirl is a perfect complement to its bold counterpart, embodying both distinction and versatility in the world of luxury timepieces.
Rolex Coke
A Rolex GMT-Master II with a bold red and black ceramic bezel? That’s the Coke. Produced from 1982 to 2007, this striking colorway appeared on References 16760 and 16710. The earlier 16760, known as the Fat Lady due to its thicker case, was only in production for a few years, making it especially prized among collectors. Though eventually phased out in favor of the Pepsi bezel, the Coke GMT remains a highly sought-after classic, celebrated for its distinctive aesthetic and place in Rolex history.
Rolex Pepsi
In the 1950s, Rolex unveiled the original GMT-Master, featuring a two-tone bezel designed specifically for pilots who needed to track multiple time zones at once. Today, the iconic Rolex Pepsi continues the legacy of the GMT-Master, with its striking blue and red ceramic bezel insert. Offered in both Oyster and Jubilee bracelets, the Pepsi bezel has been released in limited quantities over the years, making it a coveted treasure among collectors seeking a taste of rarity and prestige.
Rolex Sprite
When Rolex unveiled its new GMT in 2022, it sent shockwaves through the watch industry with its bold, never-before-seen black and green ceramic bezel. Adding to its unique appeal, the crown is positioned on the left side of the case at 9 o'clock, a configuration known as "destro"—designed specifically for wear on the left wrist.
While a handful of Rolex models from the 1950s and 1960s, such as the GMT, Submariner, and Datejust, were produced with the crown at 9 o'clock, these were typically made as special orders. This marked the first time Rolex incorporated the design into regular production. Quickly dubbed the "Rolex Sprite" by enthusiasts, this model has garnered immense demand, with an exceptionally long waiting list to match its coveted status.
Rolex Root Beer
In the 1960s and 1970s, Rolex GMT-Masters featuring soft brown and gold bezel inserts became synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and timeless style. These vintage "Root Beer" references have since maintained their status as highly sought-after collector's pieces, their allure only growing with time. In 2018, Rolex paid tribute to this iconic design with an updated GMT-Master II, crafted in 18-karat Everose gold. Featuring a sleek black dial and Oyster bracelet, this modern iteration elegantly echoed the spirit of the vintage Root Beer, blending heritage with contemporary refinement.
Rolex Submariner
Rolex Kermit
As Kermit the Frog famously sang on The Muppet Show, "It ain’t easy being green." But when you're a Rolex Submariner, being green is nothing short of iconic. Originally launched in 1953 as a professional diving watch, the Submariner has become a symbol of timeless craftsmanship. In 2003, to mark the 50th anniversary of this legendary model, Rolex introduced the reference 16610LV, affectionately known as the "Kermit." This special edition remains the only Submariner to feature a vibrant green aluminum bezel insert. Produced for just seven years before its discontinuation in 2010, the Kermit was succeeded by the Rolex Hulk but continues to enjoy strong demand and impressive price performance among collectors.
Rolex Hulk
The unmistakable green of the Rolex Hulk Submariner commands attention, drawing a striking parallel to the unstoppable power of its namesake superhero. Much like the mighty Hulk, this Rolex is built to endure – crafted from Rolex's proprietary 904L stainless steel, renowned for its remarkable strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Its rarity only adds to its allure, as the Rolex Hulk is produced in limited quantities, elevating it to near-mythical status among discerning collectors. Just as the Incredible Hulk stands as a symbol of raw power, so too does this timepiece command respect in the world of horology.
Rolex Starbucks
A bold twist on the iconic green theme, the Rolex Submariner Date reference 126610LV was introduced in 2020. This striking model combines a rich, deep green bezel with a sleek black dial, creating a captivating contrast that quickly earned it the affectionate nickname "Rolex Starbucks" within the watch community. With its harmonious blend of two iconic colors, this version of the Submariner Date continues the legacy of Rolex's ability to balance tradition with modern flair, making it a standout piece in the brand’s renowned collection.
Rolex Cookie Monster
Rolex enthusiasts have dubbed the striking 126619LB "Rolex Cookie Monster," drawing inspiration from the beloved Sesame Street character. This rare and captivating timepiece is crafted from white gold and features a stunning blue bezel, perfectly complemented by a classic black dial. Inside, the watch is powered by Rolex’s Caliber 3235 movement, renowned for its precision and reliability, offering an impressive 70-hour power reserve. The Rolex Cookie Monster stands as a standout example of the brand's ability to blend luxury, performance, and a touch of playful charm, making it a coveted piece for collectors.
Rolex Explorer
Rolex Explorer Steve McQueen
In the 1971 film Le Mans, Hollywood icon and racing legend Steve McQueen was famously thought to have worn a Rolex Explorer II—an enduring symbol of adventure and exploration. However, while this assumption has long been part of watch lore, recent research suggests that McQueen actually owned a Rolex Submariner, not the Explorer II. Despite the mix-up, the nickname "Rolex Steve McQueen" has endured, with collectors continuing to prize the Explorer II for its rugged design, characterized by its durable steel construction and iconic fixed bezel. The McQueen connection has only enhanced the watch’s appeal, infusing it with an air of rugged masculinity and the timeless coolness that the actor, often referred to as the "King of Cool," embodied.
Rolex Explorer Polar
Few watches exude as much cool sophistication as the Rolex Explorer II with its distinctive "Polar" dial. The icy white dial, with its crisp clarity and radiant brilliance, has become a defining feature of this iconic timepiece. As a cornerstone of the Explorer II collection, the Polar dial has evolved over the years, with various iterations and materials enhancing its performance and aesthetic appeal. Despite these changes, it has remained a quintessential part of the Rolex Professional line, embodying the spirit of adventure and exploration while maintaining its status as a true icon in the world of horology.
Rolex Sea-Dweller
Rolex Double Red
First introduced in the late 1960s as the reference 1665, the Rolex Double Red Sea-Dweller was designed as a professional-grade tool watch for deep-sea divers, built to withstand the extreme pressures of the ocean's depths. What set this model apart was its distinctive dial, which proudly displayed the name "SEA-DWELLER" in bold red lettering across two lines—giving rise to the iconic "Double Red" nickname. Subsequent editions of the Sea-Dweller simplified the dial, placing the name on a single line, making the original version even more coveted by collectors. Over the years, the Double Red Sea-Dweller has evolved into a legendary piece within the Rolex collector community, its historical significance and unique design ensuring its place as a timeless icon.
Advantages to Buying Rolex Watches on the Secondary Market
1. Access
Sotheby’s provides exclusive access to a curated selection of Rolex watches from its long established global network of sellers. As a leading marketplace, Sotheby's offers sought-after Rolex watches, from iconic classics to rare, collectible editions. Our watch specialists are dedicated to sourcing the most desirable Rolex models from collectors around the world.
2. Flexibility
Sotheby’s offers multiple ways to purchase Rolex watches, including online and in person at our locations in New York, Hong Kong, Zurich, Paris, and London. We also provide a concierge service to help source specific Rolex models not available online.
3. Value
While authorized Rolex boutiques offer their latest collections, finding specific models—especially those with strong collector demand—can be challenging due to availability constraints. Sotheby’s presents a curated selection of Rolex watches, including rare and discontinued references, available for purchase without the need to visit multiple retailers. Shopping with Sotheby’s ensures access to exceptional Rolex timepieces, from vintage icons to modern grail watches, all authenticated by experts.
4. Discovery
One of the greatest advantages of shopping in a global luxury marketplace is the chance to discover unique, limited-production Rolex watches no longer available at retail. Our curated selection of Rolex watches is continuously refreshed, ensuring that you’ll always find something new and exclusive.
Buy and Sell Your Rolex Watch with Sotheby's
Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest Rolex watches available for immediate purchase, as well as through auctions held in New York, Paris, Zurich, and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Rolex models in every sale, including iconic pieces like the Daytona, GMT-Master, Submariner, and more in exceptional condition. Sotheby’s auctions feature an array of Rolex timepieces, ranging from elegant vintage models to contemporary masterpieces, showcasing the brand’s unmatched craftsmanship and innovation.
Prices for Rolex watches start around $10,000 for simpler models like the Datejust and rise significantly for highly sought-after pieces. Iconic models such as the Day-Date and Daytona often command starting prices of $50,000, while rare collectible editions can exceed $200,000.
- Explore upcoming watch auctions in New York, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Hong Kong.
- Speak to a Salon Associate in New York, Zurich, London, Paris, or Hong Kong to schedule an appointment.
- Contact a Watch Specialist about selling a Rolex watch.
Trust our worldwide network of leading watch specialists from a globally renowned auction house established in 1744.
