Watch Paparazzi

Model Alice Campello spotted wearing Rolex

Alice Campello, the Venice-born model, influencer, and co-founder of the Liloo fashion brand, was photographed wearing one of the most recognisable exotic-dial Rolex references in existence — the Cosmograph Daytona 116598 SACO, universally known among collectors as the 'Leopard.' The sighting captures a piece that sits at the absolute intersection of haute joaillerie and sport chronography.

Rolex introduced the 116598 SACO as part of its gem-set Daytona family, housing the calibre 4130 automatic chronograph movement — a manufacture ébauche featuring a column wheel, vertical clutch, and a 72-hour power reserve with exceptional reliability. The 40mm case is crafted entirely in 18k yellow gold. The bezel is set with 36 baguette-cut orange sapphires in a graduated arrangement that mirrors the amber tones of the dial. Eight round brilliant diamonds serve as hour markers against the hand-lacquered leopard-print dial, whose brown and black spot pattern is applied by Rolex artisans in a labour-intensive process. Between the lugs, 24 brilliant-cut diamonds per side are pavé-set on the case flanks, adding further light play. The watch is finished on a white alligator leather strap with a yellow gold deployant clasp.

The 'Leopard' Daytona occupies a distinct collector niche. It is neither a purely technical sports watch nor a conventional jewellery piece — it is both simultaneously, which makes it polarising and, paradoxically, highly sought after. Original retail pricing was set at approximately $90,000 USD, positioning it well above standard precious-metal Daytona references. On the secondary market, pristine examples with box and papers have traded between $120,000 and $180,000 depending on condition and provenance, reflecting strong demand from collectors who appreciate Rolex's less conventional expressions.

Alice Campello's taste in watches has been consistent with her broader aesthetic — maximalist, confident, and unapologetically luxurious. The 116598 SACO reads as a statement piece on the wrist rather than a daily tool, and Campello wears it accordingly, paired with diamond drop earrings and a minimalist black ensemble that allows the watch to command full attention.

For the grey market, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116598 SACO 'Leopard' remains a strong performer. Its limited production, unusual dial execution, and full gem-set treatment ensure it retains collector attention well beyond its original retail window.