Tennis player Novak Djokovic spotted wearing a Rolex

Turin served as the backdrop for a compelling watch sighting when Zlatan Ibrahimovic, AC Milan footballer turned club director, was photographed congratulating Novak Djokovic following the Serbian's ATP Finals triumph. On Ibrahimovic's wrist sat one of Rolex's most talked-about recent references: the GMT-Master II 126720VTNR, better known among collectors as the 'Sprite.'

Introduced at Watches & Wonders Geneva 2022, the Rolex GMT-Master II reference 126720VTNR broke new ground for the line. It is the first GMT-Master II built specifically for left-handed wearers, with the winding crown relocated to the left side of the 40mm Oystersteel case — a subtle but significant engineering decision that required a mirror-image movement configuration. Powering the watch is the in-house Calibre 3285, a highly refined GMT movement offering a 70-hour power reserve, Chronergy escapement, and Rolex's signature Parachrom hairspring. The two-tone green and black Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert — the color combination that earned the 'Sprite' nickname — is virtually scratch-proof and UV-resistant, rendered in Rolex's proprietary ceramic process.

From a collector standpoint, the 126720VTNR occupies rare territory. Left-handed Rolex references have historically been scarce and highly sought after, with the vintage 'Destro' GMT-Master models commanding serious premiums at auction. The Sprite's combination of functional originality, the desirable Jubilee bracelet, and the green-black color story — echoing the beloved 'Hulk' and 'Kermit' lineage — made it an instant grail piece the moment it was announced.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no stranger to bold statements, on or off the pitch. Now serving in a senior role at AC Milan, his presence at the ATP Finals in Turin underscores his continued influence in European sport beyond football. Choosing the Sprite — a watch that deliberately defies convention — feels entirely on brand for someone who has never conformed to expectations.

At retail, the Rolex GMT-Master II 126720VTNR carries a list price of approximately $11,250 USD. On the grey market, strong demand has pushed values to roughly $25,000 USD, reflecting a premium of more than double retail — a figure consistent with Rolex's most desirable steel sports references in the current market climate.