Rolex Nicknames
Understanding the History and Origins of the Names
Rolex Watches have inspired a unique vocabulary of nicknames over the years, they've proved to be helpful identifiers for watch enthusiasts to reference specific models or variations. These nicknames often arise from a watch’s colors, affiliation with a celebrity, or pop culture references, and they add an extra layer of storytelling to each timepiece. Rolex itself rarely acknowledges these nicknames, yet terms like "Pepsi" and "Batman" have become commonplace in watch conversations.
The practice dates back decades, with early examples being from vintage collectors in Italy dubbing exotic-dial Rolex Daytonas "Paul Newmans". Now, fans are quick to attach a nickname to new releases. In this guide, we’ll explore why these nicknames exist, how they started, and dive into the most iconic examples. By the end, you’ll understand how a little nickname can transform a watch into a legend in its own right, and why using these aliases is so much easier than memorizing reference numbers. Lets decipher the meaning behind the names and celebrate the cultural phenomenon of Rolex nicknames.
15 Rolex Nicknames Every Collector Should Know
Rolex GMT-Master “Pepsi”
Reference: 6542, 1675, 126710BLRO, etc.
Possibly the most famous Rolex nickname, “Pepsi” refers to the red-and-blue bezel on GMT-Master models. The color combination was initially designed for readability on long-haul flights but resembled the Pepsi logo, earning it this nickname. It remains a pillar in Rolex’s GMT line with modern ceramic updates.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Sprite”
Reference: 126720VTNR
Released in 2022, this GMT-Master II features a green-and-black bezel and a left-hand crown. The color combo inspired the nickname “Sprite,” referencing the lemon-lime soda. It's also the first left-handed Rolex GMT, adding further collector intrigue.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Batman”
Rolex GMT-Master II 116710BLNR (left) and Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLNR (right) both featuring the iconic blue and black bezel, the differences between the two being the updated movement and power reserve.
Reference: 116710BLNR / 126710BLNR
The blue-and-black bi-color bezel on this GMT-Master II immediately reminded collectors of Batman’s iconic costume. First released in 2013, the reference 116710BLNR was the first Rolex with a two-tone ceramic bezel. The nickname “Batman” caught on due to the bezel’s dark, nightly tones. The Jubilee-bracelet version introduced in 2019 is sometimes called the “Batgirl.”
Rolex GMT-Master "Bruce Wayne"
Reference: 126710GRNR
This GMT-Master II variation offers a stealthy, monochromatic take on Rolex’s iconic travel watch. Its sleek black and grey ceramic bezel evokes an air of sophistication like Batman’s civilian persona, Bruce Wayne. A beloved timepiece for many, this watch upon it's release commanded prices up to 2.5x its retail value.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Root Beer”
Reference: 1675/3, 16713, 16753, 126711CHNR, 126715CHNR
With its brown and gold color scheme, this GMT resembles a frothy "Root Beer". The modern version features an Everose gold and steel case with a black-and-brown ceramic bezel. Actor Clint Eastwood famously wore a Root Beer GMT, giving rise to the alternate nickname “Clint Eastwood” for the 16713 variation.
Rolex Submariner “Kermit” or "Starbucks"
Rolex Submariner 16610LV “Kermit” (left) features an aluminum bezel and slimmer lugs, while the 126610LV “Starbucks” (right) has a ceramic bezel and broader case profile.
Introduced in 2003 to celebrate the Submariner’s 50th anniversary, the Kermit features a green bezel with a black dial. The nickname stems from the tone of the green bezel, resembling the beloved Muppet, Kermit. A modern update with a ceramic bezel and 41mm case debuted in 2020, which is now known as the “Starbucks”.
Rolex Daytona “Panda”
The “Panda” nickname comes from its white dial with black sub-dials, resembling the look of a panda’s face. The look not only enhances legibility but has also become one of the most coveted dial styles in the chronograph world.
Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman”
Reference: 6239, 6241, 6263, etc.
The nickname that started it all, this moniker refers to vintage Daytonas with dials featuring art deco-style fonts and contrasting sub-dials. Actor Paul Newman wore a Daytona 6239 with this dial style, and Italian collectors in the 1980s coined the nickname in his honor.
Rolex Daytona “John Mayer” and the "John Mayer 2.0"
Rolex Daytona 116508 "John Mayer" (left) with tone-on-tone green sub-dials and Rolex Daytona 126508 John Mayer "2.0" (right) the two generations showcasing distinct interpretations of the iconic green dial aesthetic.
Reference: 116508 / 126508 (green dial)
After musician John Mayer showcased the Rolex Daytona 116508 with a green-dial in a 2019 interview, the watch gained cult status. What had been a slow seller suddenly exploded in value and became known as the “John Mayer Daytona.” In 2025, Rolex released an updated version of the watch, the Rolex Daytona 126508. The newer version has the new caliber 4131 movement and contrasting gold subdials (the 116508 has tone-on-tone green subdials). Both are extremely sought-after.
Rolex GMT-Master II "Zombie" or "Bumblebee"
Reference: 126713GRNR
Both names refer to the two-tone GMT-Master II with a black and grey bezel, yellow gold accents, and black dial. “Bumblebee” highlights the black-and-yellow palette; “Zombie” refers to the watch’s moody, muted tones. It's also nicknamed “Guinness” by some. Just a mention of one of the nicknames will spark up a debate depending on the person.
Rolex Submariner "Bluesy"
Reference: 16613, 116613LB, 126613LB, etc
Affectionately nicknamed the “Bluesy,” this Submariner pairs stainless steel and yellow gold with a stunning blue dial and bezel. First introduced with the 16613 in the late 1980s, the Bluesy has since become one of the most recognizable Submariner variants.
Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea “James Cameron”
Reference: 116660 “D-Blue”, 126660, 136660
This special Deepsea features a blue-to-black gradient dial commemorating James Cameron’s 2012 Mariana Trench dive. The dial represents descending into ocean depths. Though Rolex officially called it the “D-Blue,” fans are calling it the “James Cameron.”
"Tiffany" (Dial)
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 124300 Turquoise (left) and Rolex Daytona 126518LN Turquoise (right) both featuring "Tiffany" colored dials.
Reference: 126000, 277200, 124300 and 126518LN (Turquoise dials)
The turquoise blue dial earned the nickname "Tiffany dial" for its resemblance to Tiffany & Co.'s signature color. The colorful dial was initially released in 2020 for the Rolex Oyster Perpetual but in 2025 Rolex expanded the dial color to one of its Daytona models, the 126518LN.
"Wimbledon" (Dial)
Reference: 126331, 126333, 126334, etc.
Originally seen on the Datejust 126334, the “Wimbledon” features a slate grey dial with green Roman numerals. Inspired by Rolex’s partnership with the Wimbledon tennis tournament, the dial’s sporty-elegant color scheme earned this nickname. It's now iconic among both watch collectors and tennis fans alike.
Rolex Day-Date “President”
Reference: All Day-Date models
Nicknamed the “President” or "Presidential" after U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson wore one, this refers to Day-Date models, particularly those on the signature semi-circular link bracelet (called the President bracelet). Rolex itself uses the term in marketing for the bracelet, but the nickname for the watch has stuck. A bonus fact: some watch enthusiasts refer to the ladies' datejusts with president bracelets as the "Ladies President."
All Other Nicknames (A–Z)
Beyond the top 15, exists countless other nicknamed models. These community-driven names often reflect a watch's appearance, origin, or pop culture relevance. Just for fun, here’s an alphabetical list of additional Rolex nicknames:
Baby Le Mans
Nickname for the Rolex Daytona 126519LN in white gold on Oysterflex with black dial and steel-colored sub-dials. It shares some visual cues with the rarer “Le Mans” Daytona but is more accessible, thus the “Baby” prefix.
Bao Dai
The Rolex 6062 triple calendar moonphase once personally commissioned and owned by Vietnam’s last emperor, Bảo Đại. It features a black dial with diamond markers and is one of the most valuable Rolex watches ever auctioned.
Batgirl
A seperate nickname for the Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLNR with Jubilee bracelet. The "Batgirl" is a sleeker and more elegant counterpart to the “Batman” on an Oyster bracelet.
Bart Simpson
A nickname for certain Rolex Submariner 5513s with a stubby Rolex coronet logo that resembles Bart Simpson’s hair. This detail can be found on mid-1960s gilt dials.
Big Crown
Applies to early Submariners like 6200, 6538, and 5510 that lack crown guards and feature an oversized 8mm winding crown. These are highly coveted among vintage collectors.
Big Eyes
Refers to certain vintage Daytona models like 6263 and 6265 featuring noticeably larger sub-dials than standard versions. The oversized registers give the dial a bold, high-contrast look, enhancing legibility and altering the watch’s visual balance.
Big Red
Daytona 6263 or 6265 with a large red “DAYTONA” printed above the 6 o'clock sub-dial. A favorite among vintage collectors.
Blueberry
Rare vintage GMT-Master 1675s with a solid blue bezel insert. Thought to be special orders or service inserts, they’re exceptionally rare.
Bombay
Used to describe Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches from the late 40s and 50s with elegant, curved or “bombé” lugs.
Bubble
The nickname for the colorful “Celebration” or “Bubble Dial” Oyster Perpetual, introduced in 2023. The playful dial features multicolored dots over turquoise. In 2025 the dial was discontinued, making it now a prized collectible.
Bubbleback
Applies to early automatic Rolex watches from the 1930s and 1940s with rounded, protruding casebacks designed to house the rotor movement.
Buckley Dial
Refers to vintage Day-Date and Datejust models from the 1970s–80s featuring painted Roman numerals. Named after collector John Buckley who helped popularize the style.
Coke
Refers to GMT-Master II models like the 16760, 16710 with a red-and-black bezel, introduced in the 1980s. The colorway closely resembles a classic Coca-Cola (Coke) can, making the nickname a natural fit.
Clint Eastwood
A nickname for the GMT-Master “Root Beer” 16753, which the actor frequently wore onscreen and in real life. Sometimes also called a “Root Beer Clint.”
COMEX
Special edition Submariners and Sea-Dwellers produced for the French diving company COMEX in the 1970s–80s. Dials feature the COMEX logo, it's rarity cannot be understated.
Cookie Monster
Nickname for the Rolex Submariner 126619LB in white gold with a black dial and blue ceramic bezel. The color combo reminded collectors of the Sesame Street character making it a fun nickname for this precious-metal dive watch.
Double Red
Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 with two lines of red text on the dial. One of the earliest professional dive watches to exceed 2,000ft depth ratings.
El Cornino
Early GMT-Master 1675 with sharply pointed crown guards that resemble horns. Nicknamed “El Cornino” by Italian collectors, this feature only lasted about two years.
Emoji Dial
Nickname for the 2023 Day-Date 36 with colorful puzzle motif and custom emoji-filled day/date wheels. Rolex's most playful and unconventional dial to date. Tom Brady has been seen sporting this whimsical timepiece.
Exclamation Dial
Found on 1960s Rolex dials with a small dot just below the 6 o'clock marker. The dot resembles an exclamation mark and signified lower-radium luminous material.
Eye of the Tiger
Nicknamed for its striking gold and black dial resembling tiger stripes, this Daytona 116588TBR is also heavily gem-set with diamonds on the dial and bezel. It’s an ultra-luxurious, bold Rolex that combines haute horology with a wild design.
Fat Lady
Rolex GMT-Master II 16760 with a thicker case and crown guards, housing the new independent 24-hour hand movement. Its stout profile inspired the nickname.
Ghost
Most commonly associated with the white gold Daytonas 116519LN and 126519LN featuring a light grey dial with black sub-dials. The monochrome, low-contrast design gives it a stealthy appearance hence the nickname “Ghost.”
Giraffe
Refers to the gem-set Everose Daytona with a chestnut brown lacquered dial featuring diamond pavé patches, resembling a giraffe’s spots. Introduced in 2025 with a matching brown Oysterflex strap, it’s a flashy, safari-themed sibling to the “Leopard” and “Eye of the Tiger” Daytonas.
Great White
Late Sea-Dweller 1665 versions with all-white dial text, following the “Double Red” production.
Green Lantern
An alternative nickname for the GMT-Master II “Sprite” due to the green and black bezel, and the superhero color association. It's less common than “Sprite,” but still used.
Hulk
Unveiled in 2010, the Rolex Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" features a green dial and green ceramic bezeln (the first Submariner to go full green). Collectors called it the “Hulk” due to its color and oversized “Super Case.” Discontinued in 2020, its popularity surged immediately.
Ice
A reference to the ultra-rare and ultra-expensive GMT-Master II “Ice” 116769TBR. Made of white gold and encrusted with nearly 30 carats of diamonds across the case, dial, bezel, and bracelet, it’s often referred to as the most “iced out” Rolex ever made, notably worn by the one and only Cristiano Ronaldo.
James Bond
Nickname for the Submariner 6538 worn by Sean Connery in the early James Bond films, including Dr. No and Goldfinger. Its big crown, no crown guards, and simple dial layout make it a vintage icon that blends ruggedness with cinematic cool.
Jean-Claude Killy
Applies to Rolex triple calendar chronographs (4767, 5036, 6036, 6236) from the 1940s–60s. Named after Olympic skier and Rolex ambassador Jean-Claude Killy, these rare references combine sport and complication.
John Player Special
Nickname for the gold Daytona 6241 with a black exotic dial and gold accents. It resembles the the John Player Special Formula 1 race car driven by Ayrton Senna.
Khanjar
Refers to Rolex watches bearing the Omani “Khanjar” dagger insignia on the dial. These were gifts from Sultan Qaboos of Oman and are among the rarest co-signed Rolexes.
Le Mans
Refers to the 2023 Daytona 126529LN released for the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Key details include a red “100” on the ceramic bezel and a sapphire caseback. It's a tribute to Rolex’s racing heritage and instantly collectible. Since 2023, Rolex has released a new Le Mans variation with a different type of gold: 126528LN (Yellow Gold) and 126525LN (Rose Gold).
Leopard
Nicknamed the “Leopard” for its unmistakably wild aesthetic, the Daytona 116598SACO features a yellow gold case, a leopard-print dial set with black lacquer and diamond hour markers, and a matching leopard-print leather strap. Released in the mid-2000s, this gem-set chronograph quickly became one of the most flamboyant and polarizing Rolex designs ever made.
MilSub
Military-issued Submariners like the 5513 and 5517. They were made for the British Royal Navy. They feature fixed lugs, sword hands, and unique markings.
Nipple Dial
Applies to 1970s–80s GMT-Masters and Submariners with raised gold hour markers. Found on two-tone and full-gold models like the 1675/3 and 1680/8, and less commonly spotted on the 16758 and 16753.
Oyster Sotto
Refers to a rare Daytona 6263 dial configuration where the word “Oyster” is printed beneath “Cosmograph.” The Italian term “Sotto” means “below.”
Padellone
Italian for “frying pan,” it refers to the large 38mm case of the Rolex 8171 moonphase triple-calendar from the 1950s. One of the most complicated and sought-after vintage Rolexes.
Patrizzi
Nickname for certain Zenith-era Daytonas 16520 with sub-dials that oxidized to brown due to a paint defect. Named after auctioneer Osvaldo Patrizzi, who first identified the variation.
Pikachu
Nickname for the yellow gold Daytona on Oysterflex 116518LN and 126518LN with a gold dial, black sub-dials, and red accents. It mirrors the yellow, black, and red color scheme of the Pokémon mascot Pikachu.
Polar
Refers to the white dial versions of the Rolex Explorer II (e.g., 16570, 216570). The crisp white dial with black outlined markers gives an “icy” look, inspiring the nickname.
Pussy Galore
Nickname for the vintage GMT-Master 6542 worn by the character Pussy Galore in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger. These early Bakelite bezel GMTs are highly collectible.
Rail Dial
Nickname for Rolex dials where the two lines of chronometer certification text (“Superlative Chronometer” and “Officially Certified”) align perfectly, creating a “railroad track” effect. Found on some 1970s–80s Sea-Dwellers and Explorers.
Rainbow
Factory-set with multicolored sapphires around the bezel and diamonds throughout, these Rolex Daytona (e.g., 116595RBOW, 116598RBOW, 116599RBOW, etc.) are nicknamed “Rainbow” for obvious reasons, just look at the letter code. It comes in yellow, white, or Everose gold and is a celebrity favorite.
Red Line
Often refers to early Submariner 1680s with the word “SUBMARINER” printed in red. These “Red Subs” are among the most collectible vintage Submariners from the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Serti Dial
From the French word “sertir,” meaning “to set,” this term refers to Rolex dials adorned with factory-set gemstones—typically diamonds, sapphires, or rubies—used as hour markers. Commonly found on Submariner and GMT-Master references like the 16613 and 16713, Serti dials often feature champagne, slate, or silver finishes paired with matching gem accents.
Sigma Dial
Dials marked with tiny Greek “σ” symbols (sigma) flanking “T SWISS T” at 6 o’clock. Indicates the use of solid gold markers and hands. Found on select Datejusts and Day-Dates in the 1970s.
Smurf
The “Smurf” is a white gold Submariner 116619LB featuring a bright blue dial and bezel, launched in 2008. The playful blue-and-white color scheme reminded collectors of the Smurfs, earning it this affectionate nickname. It was discontinued in 2020 and replaced with a black dial version.
Solo Dial
Refers to early Daytonas (e.g., 6239) where only “Rolex” appears on the dial with no “Oyster” or “Cosmograph.” The sparse dial layout makes them rare and highly prized.
Sprite-Hulk
A playful nickname for the white gold, left-handed Rolex GMT-Master II 126729VTNR released in 2025. It features a green dial and a green-black bezel, blending elements of both the “Sprite” and “Hulk” into one vibrant piece. It has also been referred to some as the "Green Hornet."
Stella Dial
Applies to Day-Date models with brightly colored lacquered enamel dials (e.g., green, orange, pink) made in the 1970s. Originally unpopular, now highly collectible. The name likely comes from the dial manufacturer or the Latin word for “star.”
Stelline
Italian for “little stars,” this nickname is used for the Rolex 6062 moonphase with star-shaped hour markers. A rare mid-century Rolex dress watch, deeply cherished by vintage collectors.
Steve McQueen
Referencing the Rolex Explorer II 1655, Steve McQueen never actually wore this model. Rolex advertisements linked him to it, and the nickname stuck. The 1655 features a distinct orange 24-hour hand and a chunky case, earning it another nickname: “Freccione” (Italian for “arrow”).
Super Case
Describes Rolex sports models from the mid-2000s to early 2020s featuring thicker lugs, a broader crown guard, and a more squared-off profile. Though still 40mm in diameter, the “Super Case” wears larger on the wrist. Found on references like the Submariner 116610 and GMT-Master II 116710, it marked a shift toward bolder, more modern proportions before Rolex returned to slimmer profiles in later releases.
Texas Timex
A humorous nickname for gold Day-Dates with flashy bark-finished bracelets and diamond dials, popular among Texas oilmen in the 1970s. The “Timex” bit references how common they were among the wealthy elite in the region.
Thunderbird
Used for Turn-O-Graph Datejust models (e.g., 16263, 16264, 116264, etc.) issued to or associated with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird squadron. These watches feature a rotating bezel and sporty flair.
Triple Six
Nickname for the Rolex Sea-Dweller 16660. Its reference number (with three sixes) and transitional status between the 1665 and later models gave rise to the “Triple Six” moniker.
Underline Dial
Describes Rolex dials from the early 1960s with a subtle underline beneath the chronometer text. Signifies the transition from radium to tritium lume—now a key vintage detail.
The Unicorn
Refers to the one-of-a-kind white gold Daytona 6265, the only known example in existence. Sold for over $5 million at auction. The nickname reflects its rarity—like spotting a mythical creature.
Wide Boy
Applies to vintage Datejust and Day-Date models (e.g., 1601 or 1803) featuring extra-thick hour markers and hands. Popular in the 1970s, these models have a bold, easily recognizable dial layout.
Zenith Daytona
Refers to Daytona models produced from 1988–2000 that use the Zenith El Primero-based caliber 4030 movement. These are transitional models between vintage hand-wound and modern in-house Daytonas.
The Role of Nicknames in Rolex Watch Collecting
Rolex nicknames are more than playful tags, they’re deeply tied into the culture of watch collecting. In a world where reference numbers can be long and forgettable (just look at any Audemars Piguet model), nicknames give enthusiasts a fun and memorable shorthand to identify, discuss, and celebrate different models.
They also reflect the passion and creativity of the community. Most of these names weren’t created by Rolex, but by collectors themselves. A nickname like “Hulk” or “Pepsi” can instantly evoke the color, history, and personality of a watch without needing to say “116610LV” or “GMT-Master II BLRO.”
Beyond practicality, nicknames add a layer of storytelling and identity to the timepieces. Watches like the “Paul Newman” or the “John Mayer” Daytona gained massive cultural relevance because of the associations behind the name. These nicknames can even affect a watch’s value.
They also make the Rolex world more accessible. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer, it’s much easier to say, “I’m looking for a Batman,” than to memorize reference codes. Nicknames turn these high-end luxury items into icons, characters, even companions, a “Smurf” Submariner isn’t just a dive watch, it’s a blue-blooded piece of Rolex fun.
In the end, Rolex nicknames represent a form of community ownership over the brand’s legacy. While Rolex remains tight-lipped about them, the collector world continues to create and embrace new nicknames with every major release. It’s a language that unites the old and new, all under one powerful crown.
Final Thoughts on the Cultural Importance of Rolex Nicknames
In the world of Rolex collecting, nicknames do more than simplify reference numbers, they breathe life into watches. From vintage classics like the “James Bond” and “Paul Newman” to modern favorites like the “Batman”, “Bruce Wayne”, and “Sprite”, these names tell stories, spark passion, and build identity among collectors around the world.
Whether inspired by color, pop culture, or legendary figures, each nickname captures something special. It reflects how deeply Rolex watches are embedded in culture. Not just as luxury objects, but as living symbols with personalities and legacies
As Rolex continues to evolve, so too will its nicknames. Each release presents a new opportunity for collectors to name, interpret, and share. And that’s what makes this hobby so dynamic. It’s not just about owning a watch, it’s about being part of a community that speaks its own language.
What’s your favorite Rolex nickname? Drop us a comment below or share this guide with fellow enthusiasts. After all, the only thing better than knowing the stories behind the watches… is telling them.
