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Mixed martial artist Conor McGregor spotted wearing Rolex

Conor McGregor has been photographed wearing a Rolex Day-Date 40 in 18kt yellow gold with a baguette diamond dial, reference 228238 — one of the most visually assertive configurations available in the current Rolex lineup and a watch that demands attention on and off the wrist.

The Day-Date 40 ref. 228238 was introduced in 2015 as the successor to the 118238, stretching the iconic president-bracelet case from 36mm to 40mm while retaining the exclusively precious-metal DNA that has defined the Day-Date since 1956. The yellow gold case and matching President bracelet are machined from Rolex's proprietary 18kt yellow gold alloy. The baguette diamond dial variant replaces traditional hour markers with individually set, step-cut baguette diamonds — a painstaking hand-setting process performed in Rolex's in-house gem-setting atelier in Geneva. Powering the watch is the caliber 3255, Rolex's modern flagship movement featuring a Chronergy escapement, 70-hour power reserve, and certification to Superlative Chronometer standards, meaning it performs to ±2 seconds per day in all positions.

Within the collector community, the Day-Date 40 in yellow gold with a diamond dial occupies an interesting position — it is simultaneously one of Rolex's most commercially successful references and one of its most polarizing among purists. The baguette dial configuration, however, commands genuine respect for its craft content and sits at the top of the Day-Date dial hierarchy. Waiting lists at authorized dealers for precious-metal Day-Date references remain substantial.

McGregor's affinity for yellow gold Rolex references is well documented. The Irish MMA star has worn multiple Day-Date configurations publicly over the years, and this sighting reinforces his preference for the brand's most opulent specifications. The Day-Date's long association with heads of state, executives, and cultural figures — Rolex has never shied from calling it the "President's watch" — makes it a natural fit for someone who has cultivated an image built on conspicuous success.

At retail, the Rolex Day-Date 40 ref. 228238 in 18kt yellow gold with baguette diamond dial carries a UK list price of approximately £28,850. On the secondary market, authorized-dealer scarcity and sustained demand keep grey-market premiums meaningful, with examples trading comfortably above list price depending on dial configuration and condition.