Roger Federer was spotted last week wearing one of the rarest Rolex watches in the world – a piece so exclusive that most people don’t even know it exists.
The tennis legend has been an official friend of The Crown since 2006, and his wrist has often played host to unique Rolex pieces not publicly listed by means of a hype-inducing soft launch.
That’s exactly the case of Federer’s latest black tie outing at the Laver Cup in San Francisco, where all eyes were on the scintillating flashes of blue sapphires that peaked from his (immaculately tailored, obviously) sleeve.
This is the lesser-known Rolex Daytona, reference 126599TSA, released at Watches & Wonders back in April to a select few individuals – though presumably not members of the press, as published details are scarce.
Crafted from white gold and measuring 40mm, its bezel is covered in 36 blue sapphires and 54 diamonds set into the case and lugs, while its dial is made from natural silver obsidian, a volcanic glass that shimmers between gray, black and silver depending on the light.
More sapphires mark the hours, while the inside features Rolex’s automatic 4131 movement, offering a 72-hour power reserve. Finishing it all is the characteristic white gold Oyster bracelet.
The “off-catalogue” model has never appeared on the Rolex website, nor has it been seen on any other brand ambassador thus far. We imagine Leo DiCaprio’s people are putting the request in as we speak.