Watch Paparazzi

Comedian Kevin Hart spotted wearing Rolex

Kevin Hart is no casual watch wearer. The comedian, producer, and serial entrepreneur has been photographed over the years with an enviable rotation of haute horology, and his latest spotted piece is one of the most singular references in the entire Rolex catalogue. Hart was recently seen wearing the Rolex Submariner Date reference 116659SABR — a watch that occupies a rarefied corner even within Rolex's own luxury tier.

The 116659SABR is built on the same architecture as the standard Submariner Date but executed entirely in 18ct white gold. That alone would place it far above the stainless steel variants, but Rolex goes several steps further. The bezel is set with 36 baguette-cut blue sapphires and the dial is a rich blue, creating a monochromatic depth that the standard ceramic bezel version simply cannot replicate. The 40mm case houses the calibre 3135 automatic movement — a workhorse by Rolex standards, offering a 48-hour power reserve, Parachrom hairspring, and chronometer certification. Water resistance holds at 300 metres, preserving the functional dive-watch DNA beneath all that precious stone.

Rolex introduced the 116659SABR as part of its precious-metals Submariner range, and production numbers have always been tightly controlled. The reference carries the SABR designation — Rolex's internal code denoting the sapphire-and-diamond bezel configuration. Collectors regard it as the dress-Submariner paradox: a watch that should not work conceptually but absolutely does. Its scarcity and the complexity of the gem-setting process make it one of the harder references to source, even through authorised dealers.

For Hart, the choice is consistent with his personal brand — high-achievement, no apologies, maximum effort. He has been photographed with Patek Philippe perpetual calendars, iced-out Audemars Piguet Royal Oaks, and bespoke pieces, but the 116659SABR sits in a different category: it is an official Rolex catalogue piece that simply happens to be extraordinary.

The UK list price sits at approximately £85,600, which converts to roughly $108,000 USD at current rates. On the secondary market, demand for precious-metal gem-set Rolex references has remained firm, with the 116659SABR consistently trading at or above retail — a consequence of genuine scarcity rather than speculative enthusiasm.