Writer Giorgia Mondani spotted wearing a Rolex

Giorgia Mondani, the Milan-based author and publisher behind the definitive Rolex reference book series and the influential Mondani Web platform, was recently spotted wearing the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona reference 116508 in 18k yellow gold with a striking green dial — a piece that sits at the intersection of motorsport heritage and precious-metal luxury.

The Rolex Daytona ref. 116508 belongs to the current generation of the Cosmograph family, introduced with the in-house Calibre 4130 movement — a significant milestone for Rolex, which had previously relied on a modified Zenith El Primero ebauche in the earlier ref. 16520 series. The 4130 is a column-wheel, vertical-clutch chronograph movement with a 72-hour power reserve, offering superior reliability and a more refined winding feel. The case measures 40mm in 18k yellow gold, fitted with a matching yellow gold Oyster bracelet with the Oysterclasp and Easylink extension system. The green sunburst dial, with its matching green chronograph subdials, is exclusive to the yellow gold variant and has become one of the model's most sought-after configurations since its introduction.

Within the collector community, the green-dial 116508 occupies a particular status. It represents Rolex's deliberate pairing of dial color to case metal — green reserved for yellow gold, black for white gold, and champagne for Everose — giving each variant a distinct identity rather than merely cosmetic variation. The 116508 green dial is consistently referenced in serious Daytona literature as a modern classic in the making, with secondary market demand outpacing supply since its launch.

For Mondani, whose encyclopedic Rolex books are considered essential references by collectors, dealers, and auction specialists globally, wearing this particular reference is less a fashion statement and more a professional declaration of taste. Few individuals are better positioned to choose a Daytona with genuine authority.

On the current grey market, the Rolex Daytona ref. 116508 with green dial commands a substantial premium over its retail price, with values in the £60,000–£70,000 range reflecting sustained demand and limited boutique availability. The official retail price sits at approximately $46,450 USD, underscoring just how far secondary market appetite has pushed this reference.