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Cricketer Hardik Pandya spotted wearing Rolex

Hardik Pandya was recently spotted wearing one of the most lavishly appointed references currently in Rolex's active catalogue — the Day-Date 40 ref. 228398DRRP — a piece that represents the outer limit of what the Geneva manufacturer offers in terms of gem-setting and precious materials straight from the boutique.

The Rolex Day-Date 40 ref. 228398DRRP is built entirely in 18-carat yellow gold, including the iconic five-piece President bracelet that has been synonymous with the line since its 1956 debut. The 40mm case houses Rolex's in-house calibre 3255, a movement that earned the brand's own Superlative Chronometer certification, delivering a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, a Chronergy escapement for improved efficiency, and a precision rating of ±2 seconds per day. The dial is set with a full pavé of round brilliant diamonds, while the hour markers are individually set rubies — a combination Rolex denotes with the 'RP' suffix in the reference code. The bezel itself is channel-set with baguette rubies, creating an almost continuous band of deep red that encircles the case. The 'DR' component of the reference designates the diamond and ruby bezel configuration, making the full alphanumeric suffix self-documenting for collectors.

Within the Day-Date collector community, fully gem-set references like the 228398DRRP occupy a distinct category. They are not purchased for subtlety. They represent Rolex's mastery of its own gem-setting atelier, and they carry a waiting list at authorised dealers that rivals the brand's steel sports models. The ruby-and-diamond combination is particularly sought after for its chromatic contrast — the warm yellow gold amplifying the red of the rubies rather than competing with it.

Hardik Pandya's affinity for high-jewellery timepieces is well documented. The Tamil Nadu-born all-rounder, who captained Mumbai Indians in the IPL, has built a watch collection that reflects his on-field persona: aggressive, high-visibility, and unconcerned with understatement. The Day-Date 40 in this configuration is a logical centrepiece for that collection.

At a retail price of $125,000 USD, the 228398DRRP is among the most expensive references Rolex lists publicly. On the grey market, fully gem-set Day-Date 40 references in this tier have historically traded at or modestly above retail, given their scarcity and the cost floor set by the precious materials themselves.