Watch Paparazzi

Boxer Eddie Hearn spotted wearing Rolex

Eddie Hearn, the British boxing promoter behind Matchroom Sport and one of the most influential dealmakers in the fight game, was recently spotted wearing one of Rolex's most coveted and quietly imposing references — the Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116506 in 950 platinum.

The Rolex Daytona 116506 is the pinnacle expression of the Daytona line. Introduced in 2013, it marked a significant milestone: the first time Rolex produced the Daytona in a full platinum case. The 40mm case is crafted from 950-grade platinum — denser and more precious than the more common 950 palladium alloys used elsewhere in the industry. The defining visual signature is the ice blue dial, a sunray-finished lacquer Rolex reserves exclusively for its platinum references, paired with a chestnut brown Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert engraved with the tachymetre scale. The contrast between the cool dial and warm bezel is one of the most distinctive colour combinations in modern watchmaking.

Powering the 116506 is the Rolex Calibre 4130, an in-house chronograph movement with a column wheel and vertical clutch — a significant technical upgrade when introduced, offering smooth, instantaneous chronograph engagement with minimal dial jump. The movement offers 72 hours of power reserve and is certified as a Superlative Chronometer, accurate to +/-2 seconds per day.

Among collectors, the platinum Daytona 116506 occupies a rarefied position. It does not carry the same fevered auction hysteria as a Paul Newman dial or a vintage tropical ref. 6263, but it commands enormous respect as a modern reference that is genuinely difficult to acquire at retail. Rolex produces it in limited quantities, and the combination of precious metal, proprietary dial colour, and movement quality makes it a serious long-term hold.

Hearn's choice of the 116506 is consistent with someone who operates at the highest commercial levels of sport and entertainment. The platinum Daytona is not a watch that announces itself loudly — it rewards those who recognise it. At a current grey-market value significantly above its already substantial list price, this is a wrist choice that speaks fluently in the language of understated, well-informed luxury.