Tennis player Martina Navratilova spotted wearing a Rolex

Martina Navratilova, widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, made an appearance at Wimbledon wearing a striking Rolex Datejust customized with a Chrome Hearts bracelet. The pairing reflects both her legacy at the grass-court tournament, where she won 20 titles collectively, and her refined taste in modified luxury watches.

The Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 is a seminal model in the Datejust lineage, produced primarily from the early 1960s through the 1980s. This reference houses the calibre 1570 automatic movement, a robust workhorse that beats at 28,800 vph and offers approximately 48 hours of power reserve. The case measures 36 mm in diameter, a dimension that defines the vintage Datejust aesthetic. The dial displayed here features Roman numerals in a crisp white finish, paired with Mercedes-style hands. Water resistance reaches 50 metres, sufficient for daily wear but not diving. The Ref. 1601 transitioned between various bezel materials and dial variants across its production run, making each example a distinct artifact of its era.

Chrome Hearts customizations represent a unique intersection of haute horlogerie and luxury streetwear. The custom bracelet visible here—hand-fabricated with the house's signature floral and cross motifs—transforms the Datejust into a wearable art object. Unlike many third-party modifications that diminish resale value, Chrome Hearts collaborations and bespoke work command premiums among collectors. The craftsmanship, material quality, and artistic restraint involved elevate these pieces into the realm of serious collecting.

Navratilova's choice reflects a broader trend among elite athletes toward personalized timepieces that blend technical excellence with aesthetic individuality. The Datejust's reputation for reliability aligns with her competitive pedigree, while the Chrome Hearts modification signals contemporary taste and collecting sophistication. Her sustained presence at Wimbledon—even in retirement—positions her as a cultural ambassador for the tournament, and accessories worn at such high-profile events carry narrative weight within watch communities.

Vintage Ref. 1601 models in good condition typically trade between $4,500 and $7,000 USD on the secondary market, depending on dial variant, service history, and originality. Chrome Hearts-customized versions command substantially higher premiums, often exceeding $12,000 when authenticated. Waitlists for new Chrome Hearts bespoke work remain extensive, making pre-owned examples highly sought after among discerning collectors.