Actor Nicolas Cage spotted wearing a Rolex

A photo circulating via collector account @superwatchman catches actor Nicolas Cage wearing what appears to be a vintage Rolex Day-Date in 18k yellow gold fitted with a striking black onyx dial — a configuration that sits at the intersection of geological craft and haute horlogerie. The image, likely from the late 1990s based on styling cues, shows Cage with the watch clearly visible on his left wrist, the bold yellow-gold President bracelet unmistakable even at distance.

The reference 18038 — introduced by Rolex in 1978 as the successor to the original 1803 — houses the calibre 3055 movement, a self-winding 27-jewel mechanism beating at 19,800 vph and offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The fluted bezel in 18k yellow gold, quickset date function, and the day display rendered in full text across a dedicated aperture at 12 o'clock are all hallmarks of this generation. The black onyx dial is a semi-precious stone option that Rolex offered as a special-order configuration; unlike painted dials, onyx exhibits a natural depth and slight variation that makes each watch technically unique.

From a collector standpoint, the 18038 with onyx dial occupies a privileged niche. Stone dials — onyx, meteorite, malachite — command meaningful premiums over standard lacquer variants, and original examples in unpolished condition with intact stone are increasingly difficult to source. The dial's resistance to fading also means vintage examples retain their visual drama far better than many period alternatives.

Nicolas Cage's collecting instincts have historically run toward the dramatic — he has publicly owned dinosaur skulls, medieval castles, and rare comic books. His taste in watches appears consistent with that sensibility: maximum presence within a classically sanctioned format. The Day-Date's status as the reference point for achievement dressing aligns naturally with someone who operates at the intersection of Hollywood royalty and eccentric connoisseurship.

On the current grey market, a clean Rolex Day-Date 18038 with genuine onyx dial in good condition typically trades between $18,000 and $28,000 depending on service history, originality of dial, and bracelet stretch. Modern equivalents — the 228238 with stone dial options — carry a list price north of $40,000, underscoring the enduring value proposition of the vintage Presidential.