The Daytona John Mayer is the 116508 reference in 18-carat yellow gold with a green dial, followed by the 126508, which succeeded it in 2023. The nickname comes from the American musician John Mayer, a recognised collector, who presented this watch during his appearance on Talking Watches and gave it immediate prominence among enthusiasts.
The green dial, lacquered and deep in colour, is one of the rare coloured dials produced by Rolex on a chronograph in solid gold. Paired with the engraved bezel and gold-toned counters, it gives this Daytona a very different presence from the steel versions. At Francine Joaillerie in Saint-Tropez, each example is appraised and delivered with its certificate of authenticity.
| Reference | Years | Material | Calibre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 116508 | 2016 to 2023 | 18ct yellow gold | 4130 |
| 126508 | 2023 to present | 18ct yellow gold | 4131 |
40 mm Oyster case, engraved gold bezel with tachymetric scale, solid yellow gold Oyster bracelet, water resistance to 100 metres.
Before 2018, the green 116508 could be found without great difficulty. After John Mayer's appearance on Hodinkee, demand surged and the model became scarcer. It is one of the clearest examples of collectors' influence on the second-hand market: the watch did not change, its desirability did.
No. The green Daytona dial is reserved for 18-carat yellow gold versions.
The 126508 receives the 4131 calibre, metal rings around the counters and slightly slimmer lugs. The green dial remains in the catalogue for both generations.
Write to us specifying the reference and condition sought. We source these pieces on request through our network and notify you as soon as an example becomes available.
