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royalSpotted November 2022

Royal Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim spotted wearing a Rolex

royal Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim spotted wearing a Rolex
Who & what: Rolex Cosmograph Daytona AET Remould Custom White Ceramic 'Abu Dhabi' Yas Marina Edition – Limited 15 Pieces

During his birthday celebrations, Crown Prince of Johor General Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim was photographed at what appears to be a private outdoor gathering, his left wrist carrying one of the most exclusive custom Daytona commissions in existence — the AET Remould 'Abu Dhabi' Yas Marina Edition, limited to just 15 pieces worldwide.

At its core, the watch begins life as a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona reference 116500LN, the steel sports chronograph that underpins AET Remould's starting canvas. The original black or white ceramic bezel insert is replaced by AET's proprietary white ceramic tachymetre bezel, retaining the Rolex engraved markings but rendered in a cool, monochromatic white. The dial — the centrepiece of this commission — is executed in a striking Yas Marina turquoise blue, directly referencing the colour palette of Abu Dhabi's Formula 1 circuit. The three chronograph sub-registers are rendered in a contrasting lighter tone, maintaining legibility while amplifying the dial's visual drama. Beneath, the Rolex Cal. 4130 movement — a column-wheel, vertical clutch chronograph calibre celebrated for its reliability and service longevity — keeps time to Superlative Chronometer standards.

AET Remould, the Abu Dhabi-based customisation atelier, has carved a niche servicing Gulf royalty and regional elites who seek personalised statements beyond standard Rolex production. Their work is legally classified as aftermarket modification; Rolex's manufacturer warranty does not apply post-conversion. That said, the craftsmanship standards and material quality have earned the atelier a credible reputation among a tight circle of regional collectors.

Tunku Ismail, the Crown Prince of Johor and son of Sultan Ibrahim, is well documented as a watch enthusiast with a collection spanning major Swiss independents and complications. His choice of this particular 15-piece commission — likely acquired through direct channels with AET Remould — reflects both a geographic affinity with the Gulf and a preference for uniqueness over catalogue availability.

With an original 116500LN retailing at approximately $14,550 USD before customisation, AET Remould's bespoke conversion commands a significant premium. The combined list price for this edition was quoted at approximately $54,100 USD. No established grey market exists given the ultra-limited production, making each piece effectively price-on-request in any secondary transaction.

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