Watch Paparazzi

Singer John Mayer spotted wearing Rolex

John Mayer, whose wrist has become almost as closely watched as his fretwork, was recently spotted wearing the Rolex Daytona in stainless steel, reference 116500LN — arguably the most recognisable and sought-after chronograph in current production.

Rolex unveiled the Daytona 116500LN at Baselworld 2016, marking a significant departure from its predecessor, the 116520. The headline change was the introduction of a black or white Cerachrom ceramic bezel, replacing the aluminium insert used on earlier steel Daytonas. That ceramic bezel resists fading, scratching, and UV degradation, and it gave the watch a bolder, more contemporary silhouette. Beneath the 40mm Oystersteel case, Rolex fitted the Calibre 4130 — a manufacture movement built entirely in-house, featuring a column-wheel chronograph mechanism and a vertical clutch for clean, instant chronograph engagement. Beating at 28,800 vph with a 72-hour power reserve, the 4130 is widely regarded as one of the most technically accomplished chronograph ebauches produced by any manufacturer.

For collectors, the 116500LN occupies a singular position. It is simultaneously a mainstream icon and a genuinely scarce object — authorised dealers have faced chronic supply shortages since launch, and the waiting list dynamic transformed it into a cultural touchstone as much as a horological one. The reference has also appreciated aggressively on the secondary market, at times trading at three to four times retail during peak demand periods, though prices have moderated somewhat since 2022.

Mayer's watch credentials are well established. He has publicly discussed his collection on multiple occasions, favouring Rolex sport models, independent makers, and vintage references. The steel Daytona is a logical fixture on a wrist like his — understated by supercar standards, but immediately legible to anyone who knows watches. It is the kind of piece that functions as both a daily wearer and a statement without announcing itself loudly.

At official retail the Rolex Daytona 116500LN lists in the region of $14,550 USD, though it has rarely been available at that price through normal retail channels. On the grey market, demand has kept values consistently above list, making Mayer's choice as sound financially as it is aesthetically.