Football manager Khalid bin Hamad Al Busaidi spotted wearing a Rolex

Former Omani Football Federation chairman Khalid bin Hamad Al Busaidi was recently spotted wearing a yellow gold Rolex Daytona during a public appearance, showcasing one of watchmaking's most sought-after chronographs. The 40mm case in 18k yellow gold sits prominently on the wrist, paired with a brown crocodile leather strap, underscoring the refined aesthetic favored by Gulf-region collectors.

The reference 116508 represents Rolex's modern evolution of the Daytona line. Housed within the precious-metal case is the in-house Caliber 4130 automatic movement, a significant development that eliminated the brand's reliance on the Zenith El Primero. This self-winding chronograph beats at 28,800 vph and delivers a robust 72-hour power reserve. The white dial features three timed subdials in contrasting black, a date window at 3 o'clock, and applied indices; the fixed bezel bears a tachymetric scale for measuring average speeds. Water resistance stands at 100 meters, adequate for daily wear despite the chronograph complication.

The 116508 entered production in 2000 and remains in limited availability. Its yellow gold construction distinguishes it from the more ubiquitous stainless-steel reference 116520 and the platinum variant 116506. Collectors prize the 116508 for its warmth and visual exclusivity; production numbers remain tightly controlled, and waitlists at authorized dealers often extend years. Notable variants include dial options and occasional limited editions tied to anniversaries, though the standard white dial remains most recognizable.

Al Busaidi's choice reflects sophisticated taste within Middle Eastern horological circles, where the Daytona—particularly in precious metals—signals achievement and discernment. The pairing with formal attire and the formal setting underscores why this reference endures as a statement piece among business and sports leadership.

Retail pricing for the 116508 hovers near $32,500 USD at authorized dealers, though grey-market and pre-owned examples frequently command $35,000 to $42,000 depending on condition and year of manufacture. Scarcity in yellow gold and the chronograph's engineering prestige ensure strong secondary-market demand.