Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo spotted wearing a Rolex

Cristiano Ronaldo was photographed wearing a striking 18K yellow gold Rolex Daytona ahead of Portugal's World Cup match against Croatia. The football legend's timepiece, shared on Instagram by watch analyst Vasco de Castelbajac, showcases a mother-of-pearl dial paired with a custom rainbow baguette sapphire bezel—a bespoke modification that elevates the already-prestigious sports chronograph into gallery-worthy territory.

The Rolex Daytona Ref. 116598RBOW is powered by the Calibre 4130, Rolex's in-house automatic chronograph movement with a 72-hour power reserve and chronometer certification. The case measures 40 mm in diameter, crafted entirely from 18K yellow gold with a polished and brushed finish. The mother-of-pearl dial variant is particularly sought after; it replaces the standard black or slate dials and reflects light with subtle iridescence, making each example unique under different lighting conditions. Eight diamond hour markers punctuate the dial, while the three chronograph subdials—at 6, 9, and 12 o'clock—are finished in sunburst. Water resistance reaches 100 metres, sufficient for professional sports use but not diving.

The after-market rainbow sapphire bezel, as noted in the sighting, represents a significant departure from Rolex's factory specifications. While Rolex has produced rainbow Daytona bezels in gemstones, these typically feature rubies, sapphires, and emeralds in a specific sequence. A fully custom rainbow baguette configuration signals that Ronaldo's example has been modified by a specialist, adding individuality but sacrificing factory originality—a trade-off collectors debate intensely. The 18K yellow gold Daytona with mother-of-pearl dial already commands scarcity in the secondary market; customization further distinguishes this particular piece.

Ronaldo's choice of the Daytona reinforces its standing as the chronograph of choice for athletes and high-achievers. The footballer has been photographed in multiple luxury watches over his career, but the Daytona's mechanical precision and motorsports heritage resonate with his competitive ethos. The mother-of-pearl variant adds refinement, suggesting a more formal application than typical sports-focused Daytona wearers might select.

Retail pricing for an 18K yellow gold Daytona with standard black dial hovers around USD 75,000–85,000, though mother-of-pearl examples and rainbow baguette variants command significant premiums in the grey market. Current estimates for comparable pre-owned pieces range from USD 100,000 to USD 150,000, depending on dial condition and bezel authenticity. Customized examples with after-market sapphire work occupy a niche segment, as collectors value factory specifications; nevertheless, Ronaldo's high-profile wear generates demand among fans seeking comparable aesthetics.