Watch Paparazzi

Singer Usher spotted wearing Rolex

Usher celebrated his 43rd birthday with what appeared to be a relaxed confidence — and a very deliberate wrist choice. The singer was photographed wearing the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in 18k yellow gold, reference 116528, a watch that needs no introduction in collector circles but still commands attention every time it surfaces on a notable wrist.

The ref. 116528 represents a landmark moment in Rolex's chronograph history. Introduced in 2000, it was part of the generation that debuted the Calibre 4130 — an entirely in-house movement developed over roughly a decade and considered one of the most robust and precise column-wheel chronograph movements in production watchmaking. The 4130 uses a vertical clutch mechanism, offers approximately 72 hours of power reserve, and is housed in a 40mm yellow gold Oyster case with the signature tachymetric bezel. Dial options across the 116528 production run included cream, black, and champagne configurations, all framed by the model's characteristic trio of subsidiary registers.

For collectors, the 116528 occupies a serious position. Yellow gold Daytonas have historically carried stronger secondary-market premiums than their steel counterparts in percentage terms relative to retail, a counterintuitive dynamic given that steel ref. 116500LN is the model that generates the longest boutique waitlists. The 116528 was discontinued in 2023 alongside most of the previous Daytona generation, replaced by the new ref. 126528GR, which means examples of the outgoing reference are already attracting attention from buyers who prefer the slightly slimmer profile and the proven 4130 calibre without the updated 7234 movement's unknowns.

Usher's affinity for high-end timepieces is well documented. The Grammy-winning artist has appeared in public with a range of serious references over the years, and the yellow gold Daytona sits comfortably within that pattern — understated enough for someone who knows watches, recognizable enough to register on a birthday photograph.

On the grey market, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116528 currently trades in a range consistent with its discontinued status and precious-metal construction. Retail on the 116528 was set at approximately $34,550 USD before its discontinuation, while secondary market values have settled higher, reflecting both scarcity and sustained demand for the yellow gold Daytona in any generation.