Watch Paparazzi

Footballer Milan Škriniar spotted wearing Rolex

Milan Škriniar, the commanding centre-back who built his reputation as one of Serie A's most reliable defenders during his years at Inter Milan, was photographed wearing one of the most visually arresting references in the entire Rolex catalogue — the Cosmograph Daytona 'Eye of the Tiger' in yellow gold, reference 116588TBR, fitted on an Oysterflex bracelet.

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116588TBR debuted at Baselworld 2019 as part of the brand's high-jewellery tier. Its 40mm 18k yellow gold case houses the in-house calibre 4130, Rolex's self-winding chronograph movement featuring a column wheel, vertical clutch, and a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. The bezel is set with 36 trapeze-cut diamonds, while the dial — the piece's defining feature — is executed in a tiger-stripe pavé pattern using diamonds and yellow sapphires, evoking the coat of the big cat with remarkable precision. The three subsidiary counters are rendered in champagne, providing contrast against the wild texture of the main dial. The Oysterflex strap, Rolex's proprietary black elastomer band with a titanium and nickel alloy metal blade spine, replaces the expected Oyster bracelet, adding a sportier ergonomic profile that suits an active wearer.

Within the collector community, the 116588TBR occupies a unique position. It is not a watch most serious collectors chase for investment — it is unambiguously a statement piece, a showroom-floor conversation starter that Rolex produces in extremely limited numbers. Its appeal is emotional and aesthetic rather than technical, though the movement underneath is identical to any competition-grade Daytona. Secondary market availability is rare, which keeps pricing elevated and acquisition genuinely difficult.

Škriniar's choice is consistent with a certain profile of elite European footballer: technically disciplined on the pitch, unapologetically bold off it. The 'Eye of the Tiger' is not a watch you wear to blend in, and a man who spent years anchoring one of Europe's most scrutinised defences clearly has no interest in doing so.

At retail, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116588TBR carries a list price well into six figures. On the grey market, examples in unworn condition with full set command a significant premium, reflecting both scarcity and the enduring global demand for anything bearing the Daytona name — jewellery edition or otherwise.