Ah, Rolex. These watches that make collectors dream, frustrate bankers and fuel discussions among enlightened amateurs... or rednecks in search of recognition. Because yes, if Rolex embodies Swiss precision and mechanical refinement, it is also the subject of a curious phenomenon: nicknames. Whether it is a sincere tribute or a watchmaking running gag, these nicknames allow the models of the crown to carve out a place of their own in the collective imagination.
Here is an overview of these legendary nicknames of certain Rolex models.
Do you want a Daytona? Get a ticket and wait, like everyone else. With its waiting lists worthy of emergency rooms on a full moon evening, this watch has acquired cult status. And his nicknames match his arrogance.
Ref. 116500LN : White, black, sober, effective. A design so clean it might make you check the cleanliness of your own nails before wearing it. A safe choice, provided you don't fall asleep watching it.
Ref. 6239, 6241,6263 : This exotic vintage dial is named after a legendary actor. Ironically, Newman himself only wore this watch because he couldn't find a better one at the time. Today, it costs more than some houses. Yes, because a beige dial is worth that, right?
Ref. 116595RBOW : Set with multi-colored sapphires, this version is the perfect accessory for… say, a K-pop singer or rapper looking for ostentatious bling. It is obviously not the cheapest Rolex.
Ah, the GMT-Master II. The essential tool for those who cross time zones like others change socks. And of course, each version has its nickname, because “Ref. 126710BLRO”, it’s far too complicated for a public that barely reads the time.
Ref. 126710BLRO : Red and blue, like the famous soft drink. It's not just a watch, it's an invitation to type 2 diabetes. But let's face it, it has charm – as long as you don't wear it with a tracksuit.
Ref. 116710BLNR : A black and blue bezel that evokes the black knight. Because nothing screams "I'm a superhero" like an Oyster bracelet and a prize equivalent to a small Batmobile.
Ref. 126711CHNR : Brown and gold. Yes, brown. As if Rolex had said to itself: “What if we made a watch that looks like an old English pub booth?” » Surprisingly, it works.
Ref. 126720VTNR : Green and black, with a crown on the left for left-handed people. A watch for those who like difference… and lemon. If you want to attract attention in an airport, this is your best option.
Launched in 1953, the Submariner is the archetype of diving watches. And yet, she is rarely seen more than two meters from a private swimming pool. Its nicknames are just as exaggerated as the adventures of its bearers.
Ref. 116610LV : All in green, massive, and ready to crush the other watches in your collection. Unfortunately, it won't turn you into a superhero. Just a guy who likes to be noticed.
Ref. 16610LV : A green bezel and a black dial, as if Rolex had wanted to pay homage to a puppet frog. Charming, but it's hard not to hear "Rainbow Connection" every time you watch it.
Ref. 126610LV : The modern version of Kermit, more sophisticated. But let's be honest, if a watch costs as much as a latte fan spends in a year, it deserves the nickname.
The Sea-Dweller is the watchmaking equivalent of a Hummer. It's designed for extreme environments you'll never visit. But hey, she looks cool, right?
Ref. 126660 : This watch was created as a tribute to the director of Titanic. With its blue-black gradient dial, it is perfect for lovers of selfies on boats.
Ref. 126600 : A red inscription on the dial, and there you have it: a nickname. Because sometimes it only takes a little to make a watch special. Or to justify a price increase.
Finally, the underdogs. These Rolexes which, despite their pedigree, do not enjoy the same status as their more famous cousins.
Explorer II Ref. 1655 : Ironically, Steve McQueen did not wear this watch. But that doesn't bother anyone, because facts should never interfere with a good story.
Milgauss Ref. 116400GV): A watch resistant to magnetic fields. Ideal if you work in a laboratory…
In the end, these nicknames are much more than a wink between amateurs. They humanize objects often perceived as symbols of elitism. But make no mistake: behind every “Pepsi” or “Hulk” lies a formidable marketing machine.
Please share by clicking this button!
Visit our site and see all other available articles!