Basketball player Giannis Antetokounmpo spotted wearing a Rolex

Photographed by GQ in what appears to be an editorial or press setting, Giannis Antetokounmpo — the Milwaukee Bucks' two-time NBA MVP — was spotted on his wrist wearing one of the most talked-about Rolex configurations of its generation: the Daytona ref. 116508 in 18-karat yellow gold, fitted with a striking green dial.

The Rolex Daytona ref. 116508 sits at the top of the current production Daytona lineup. Powered by the in-house Caliber 4130, a column-wheel chronograph movement with a vertical clutch and approximately 72 hours of power reserve, this reference replaced the older 116528 and brought with it significantly improved chronograph architecture. The case measures 40mm in 18-karat yellow gold, fitted on an Oyster bracelet with a folding Oysterclasp. The green dial variant — with its lacquered sunburst green surface and contrasting black or green subsidiary registers depending on the configuration — was the first green-dialed Daytona Rolex ever produced in regular catalog form, a distinction that immediately elevated its desirability among serious collectors.

From a collector standpoint, the 116508 green dial is one of the most coveted references in the modern Rolex portfolio. Green dials have become a Rolex signature associated with their Oyster Perpetual identity and anniversary editions, and seeing the color migrate to the Daytona in yellow gold created a combination that reads simultaneously sporty and opulent. Waiting lists at authorized dealers have historically stretched for years, and grey market premiums reflect that demand without apology.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, the 2021 NBA Finals MVP and back-to-back league MVP in 2019 and 2020, has built a global profile that extends well beyond basketball. His sighting in this specific Daytona configuration for a GQ shoot underscores a growing pattern among elite athletes gravitating toward yellow gold Rolex sports references — pieces that carry institutional weight without requiring explanation.

At an official retail price of $37,400 USD, the Rolex Daytona ref. 116508 green dial is effectively unobtainable at list through authorized dealers. On the grey market, it commands approximately $92,000 USD — a premium of roughly 146% over retail — reflecting its status as one of the most in-demand references Rolex currently produces.