Mixed martial artist Khabib Nurmagomedov spotted wearing a Rolex

Undefeated UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was recently photographed wearing the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Ref. 226627, a platinum sports watch that underscores his refined taste beyond the octagon. Captured during a casual indoor setting, the 42mm case gleamed under professional lighting, paired with Nurmagomedov's signature red shirt and dark sunglasses—a striking contrast between athletic persona and haute horlogerie.

The Yacht-Master 42 Ref. 226627 houses the Rolex Calibre 3235, a 31-jewel automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve and chronometer certification. The case is executed in 950 platinum, a metal rarely seen in sport watches, conferring both prestige and corrosion resistance. The black dial features applied hour markers in white gold and applied Mercedes hands, with a date window at 3 o'clock framed by a polished cyclops lens. The unidirectional rotatable bezel is aluminium with a ceramic insert, designed for precise timing in marine environments. The watch delivers 300 metres of water resistance via a Triplock winding crown and screw-down case back. Rolex paired the case with an Oyster bracelet in platinum, featuring solid end links and a Glidelock clasp for secure wrist positioning.

The 226627 entered production in 2021 as part of Rolex's expansion into precious metals for the Yacht-Master family. Unlike steel variants, the platinum version remains relatively uncommon in retail channels, making it a collector's piece rather than a commodity. The pairing of platinum with the modern 3235 movement and ceramic technology positions this reference as a bridge between classic Rolex heritage and contemporary watchmaking standards. Waitlists at authorised dealers remain lengthy; grey-market availability is similarly constrained.

Nurmagomedov's choice of the platinum Yacht-Master 42 aligns with his established pattern of selecting high-end timepieces suited to both formal occasions and active wear. The 42mm case diameter suits his athletic build and projects presence without ostentation. Platinum sports watches occupy a niche rarely explored by athletes, elevating the sighting beyond standard celebrity horology.

Retail pricing for the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Ref. 226627 stands near USD 26,500, though authorised dealers rarely discount platinum references. Grey-market prices typically range between USD 27,000 and USD 32,000, reflecting steady demand and limited supply. The platinum case, combined with the modern 3235 calibre and ceramic bezel, ensures strong collectibility and stable long-term value retention.