Many Rolex watches are better known by their nicknames than their reference number.
From the Paul Newman to the John Player Special, these names help watch collectors identify each iconic model. Confusion can arise due to the sub dials, blue and black bezel options, or a black dial that’s referred to as the Bart Simpson.
Over the years, the Rolex Explorer, the Submariner, and even the Rolex Oyster Perpetual have all gained famous nicknames.
This guide explains every Rolex watch nickname a collector should know.
Why Do Rolex Watches Have Nicknames?
Rolex watches often gain nicknames from collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts who use them as shortcuts to identify specific models without always referencing the official reference number. These nicknames are typically based on the watch’s color scheme, celebrity associations, or distinctive features like a black dial or blue and black bezel. For example, the Paul Newman and John Mayer Daytonas are nicknamed due to the public figures who wore them, while the Submariner “Hulk” is known for its green color.
The first Rolex model widely known to have a nickname was the “Paul Newman” Daytona. It referred to vintage Daytonas with exotic dials worn by the actor, and the nickname became mainstream by the 1980s due to the dramatic rise in auction value and collector demand. Some names like “President” refer to an actual Rolex bracelet and are officially used by the brand. However, most rolex nicknames every collector should know are not sanctioned by Rolex.
Over the years, models like the Rolex Explorer and Rolex Oyster Perpetual have also picked up unofficial names such as the John Player Special or even Bart Simpson. These nicknames simplify conversations among watch collectors and have become part of modern watch culture.
1. Batman
Market Price: S$18,300
The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116710BLNR earned the nickname “Batman” because of its blue and black bezel, reminiscent of the superhero’s colors. It was released in 2013 and marked the first Rolex GMT to feature a two-tone ceramic bezel. The model comes on an Oyster bracelet, which visually distinguishes it from the later Jubilee-equipped version. It has become one of the most recognizable rolex nicknames every collector should know. The watch is a favorite in the gmt master ii line due to its sharp contrast and functionality.
2. Batgirl
Market Price: S$20,500
The Batgirl is the nickname for the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLNR, which features the same blue and black bezel as the Batman but comes with a Jubilee bracelet. Released in 2019, it introduced the upgraded Caliber 3285 movement and enhanced accuracy. Collectors differentiate the two based on the bracelet style and movement improvements. The nickname Batgirl was coined to separate it from the Oyster bracelet Batman despite similar bezels. It is a standout among the rolex gmt master ii models.
3. Kermit
Market Price: S$16,657
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610LV was launched in 2003 to celebrate the Submariner’s 50th anniversary. It features a green aluminum bezel and a black dial, which led to the nickname “Kermit” after the Muppet character. It was the first Submariner to feature a colored bezel. As one of the most beloved versions of the Submariner, it holds a strong position in rolex nicknames lists. It remains a collectible classic with a unique color scheme.
4. Starbucks / Cermit
Market Price: S$17,800
The Submariner Ref. 126610LV introduced in 2020 is often called the Starbucks due to its green ceramic bezel and black dial. Some also refer to it as the Cermit, combining the words “Ceramic” and “Kermit.” The watch differs from the original Kermit by featuring the newer Super Case and updated movement. The nickname Starbucks comes from its resemblance to the coffee brand’s colors. It has gained rapid attention among modern collectors of the submariner.
5. Hulk
Market Price: S$22,300
Released in 2010, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610LV features both a green dial and green ceramic bezel. It was quickly dubbed the Hulk because of its all-green look and beefier case proportions. The sunburst dial adds depth and uniqueness on the dial. It became one of the most popular rolex nicknames in the Submariner lineup. The model was discontinued in 2020, making it highly sought after.
6. Smurf
Market Price: S$47,207
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 116619LB is nicknamed the Smurf due to its bright blue dial and bezel combined with a white gold case. Released in 2008, it was the first Submariner offered in solid white gold. The color combination and luxurious metal earned it a whimsical nickname. The watch stands out in the submariner series for its mix of precious materials and bold color. Collectors consider it one of the most distinctive rolex nicknames.
7. Panda
Market Price: S$32,971
The Panda nickname refers to modern Rolex Daytona models that feature a white dial with black sub dials. This contrast resembles the face of a panda bear, leading to the informal name. It is especially popular in stainless steel variants like the Ref. 116500LN. As the design evokes motorsport chronographs of the past, it has become one of the most iconic rolex nicknames. It’s a staple for many watch collector wishlists.
8. Reverse Panda
Market Price: S$68,800
The Reverse Panda features a black dial with white sub dials and appears on several vintage and modern Daytonas. This inverted color scheme is the visual opposite of the traditional Panda layout. It adds a sporty and aggressive aesthetic to the watch. It is a highly sought after variation due to its classic appeal and limited availability. Known as the reverse of one of the most iconic Daytona styles, it is a standout among collectors.
9. John Mayer
Market Price: S$83,800
The Rolex Daytona Ref. 116508 with a green dial and yellow gold case became known as the John Mayer after the musician praised it in interviews. It quickly gained popularity following his appearance in the Hodinkee Talking Watches video in 2019. This endorsement led to a significant market spike and cemented the nickname. The color combination is distinctive and not found in other current Daytona models. It is one of the most influential modern rolex nicknames.
10. Paul Newman
Market Price: N/A
The Paul Newman nickname refers to a specific style of vintage Rolex Daytona dials with Art Deco numerals, worn by the actor Paul Newman. These dials were originally slow sellers but surged in value due to the actor’s long-term association with the watch. In 2017, Paul Newman’s personal Daytona sold at auction for over $17 million. It is the most legendary of the paul newman rolex nicknames. Today, these models are considered some of the most valuable watches in the world.
11. Stella Dial
Market Price: N/A
The Stella Dial refers to brightly lacquered dials in vivid colors like pink, turquoise, and yellow found in vintage Rolex Day-Date models. Originally unpopular in the 1970s, these dials are now highly sought after by collectors. The nickname Stella was never official but is widely used in the vintage community. These models have become standout pieces due to the dial’s unusual appearance. They are among the most colorful entries in rolex nicknames.
12. Ice Blue
Market Price: S$141,800
The Ice Blue nickname refers to the platinum Rolex Daytona models featuring a pale blue dial. Rolex only uses this dial color on platinum watches, making it an easy visual cue for spotting precious metal. First introduced for the Daytona’s 50th anniversary in 2013, the model became an instant icon. The dial and bezel combination is exclusive and luxurious. It’s now one of the most desirable modern rolex nicknames.
13. Leopard
Market Price: N/A
The Leopard is a yellow gold Daytona known for its leopard-print dial, gem-set bezel, and matching strap. Released in the mid-2000s, it was one of the boldest and most polarizing Rolex designs ever produced. The nickname comes directly from the exotic aesthetic. This model is considered highly collectible due to its low production numbers and flashy design. The watch is a true outlier in the history of rolex nicknames.
14. Zenith Daytona
Market Price: S$19,564
The Zenith Daytona refers to the Rolex Daytona models from the late 1980s to early 2000s that used a modified Zenith El Primero movement. These watches marked the transition from manual-wind to automatic Daytonas. Rolex made numerous changes to the movement before using it in their chronographs. The nickname comes from the origin of the movement itself. These models have gained value over the years among those who track the evolution of the Daytona.
15. James Cameron
Market Price: S$53,500
The James Cameron Deepsea is a Rolex Sea-Dweller with a gradient blue-to-black dial called D-Blue. It was created to commemorate filmmaker James Cameron’s 2012 solo dive to the Mariana Trench. The watch is known as the James Cameron due to this historic expedition. Its unique dial and depth rating make it one of the most robust Rolex watches ever made. It remains one of the most discussed modern rolex nicknames.
16. Pepsi
Market Price: S$24,800
The Pepsi nickname applies to Rolex GMT-Master and GMT-Master II models that feature a red and blue bezel. The colors resemble the Pepsi logo, leading to the now-famous moniker. The original version launched in the 1950s with the reference number 6542. It is one of the most enduring and widely recognized rolex gmt nicknames. The combination of color and heritage ensures its continued popularity.
17. Coke
Market Price: S$14,079
The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16710 is called the Coke due to its red and black bezel. Like the Pepsi, the nickname comes from the similarity to the Coca-Cola logo colors. It became available in the 1980s and remains a favorite among fans of the gmt master ii. The color scheme gives it a bold, sporty look that contrasts with other GMT models. The Rolex Coke is no longer in production, making it a desirable classic.
18. Root Beer
Market Price: S$26,950
Root Beer is the nickname for GMT-Master models with a brown and gold bezel, including Ref. 1675/3 and the modern 126711CHNR. Actor Clint Eastwood was often seen wearing one, which led some collectors to also call it the Clint Eastwood GMT. The name Root Beer comes from the resemblance to the soda’s color. It is one of the most vintage-feeling rolex gmt options available. This nickname is still used actively today.
19. Fat Lady
Market Price: S$16,496
The GMT-Master II Ref. 16760 is called the Fat Lady due to its thicker case profile compared to other GMT models. It was the first GMT-Master II and introduced both a sapphire crystal and an independent hour hand. The watch came with a red and black bezel similar to the Coke but is heavier and more robust. The nickname distinguishes it within the gmt master ii range. It holds an important place in the evolution of the gmt master.
20. Polar
Market Price: S$12,500
The Polar Explorer II is known for its stark white dial, a feature most visible in Ref. 16570 and Ref. 216570. The high contrast between the white dial and black markers gives it a distinct, clean appearance. The nickname Polar reflects this icy, utilitarian look. It is one of the most identifiable versions of the rolex explorer line. The model is popular among enthusiasts looking for a rugged tool watch.
21. Steve McQueen
Market Price: N/A
Despite the association, Steve McQueen likely never wore the Rolex Explorer II Ref. 1655. The nickname stuck due to vintage marketing and confusion with his actual choice of watches. The model features a large orange 24-hour hand and a fixed steel bezel. It is now one of the most collectible vintage rolex explorer models. The nickname adds extra mystique to the already unique design.
22. President
Market Price: N/A
The Rolex Day-Date earned the nickname President after being worn by multiple U.S. Presidents, including Lyndon B. Johnson. It also comes with the President bracelet, which was specially designed for the model. This association gave rise to the nickname that has become synonymous with the watch. It is a powerful status symbol among collectors and executives. The Rolex Day-Date remains a pillar of the rolex nicknames tradition.
23. Bubbleback
Market Price: N/A
Bubbleback refers to early Rolex Oyster Perpetual models with thick, rounded casebacks needed to house rotor-driven automatic movements. These models date back to the 1930s and helped establish Rolex as a leader in self-winding technology. The nickname comes from the exaggerated shape of the case back. These watches are significant in the history of the rolex oyster perpetual. They are among the first truly modern automatic watches.
24. Popeye
Market Price: N/A
The Popeye nickname is used for rare vintage Submariner models with oversized lume plots. The large lume circles resemble muscular forearms, similar to the cartoon character Popeye. These watches are often customized or modified, adding to their mystique. The nickname is part of the more obscure circle of rolex nicknames. It’s a curiosity for collectors who seek the unusual.
25. John Player Special
Market Price: N/A
The nickname John Player Special refers to vintage Rolex Daytona models with a black and gold color scheme, such as references 6241 and 6264. The name comes from the black-and-gold livery of the Lotus Formula 1 cars sponsored by John Player Special in the 1970s. These watches often feature a black dial with gold sub dials and pump pushers. They are considered some of the most beautiful and collectible vintage Daytonas. The nickname links the watch to the golden age of motorsports and has grown in prestige over the years.
Summary Table of Rolex Nicknames
Below is a quick-reference table summarizing the most well-known Rolex nicknames every collector should know.
| Nickname | Reference(s) | Model | Description | Market Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Batman | 116710BLNR | GMT-Master II | Black & blue bezel, Oyster bracelet | S$18,300 |
| Batgirl | 126710BLNR | GMT-Master II | Same bezel as Batman, Jubilee bracelet | S$20,500 |
| Kermit | 16610LV | Submariner | Green aluminum bezel, black dial, 50th anniversary edition | S$16,657 |
| Starbucks / Cermit | 126610LV | Submariner | Green ceramic bezel, black dial, Super Case | S$17,800 |
| Hulk | 116610LV | Submariner | Green dial and bezel, sunburst effect, thicker case | S$22,300 |
| Smurf | 116619LB | Submariner | Blue dial and bezel, white gold case | S$47,207 |
| Panda | 116500LN | Daytona | White dial with black sub dials | S$32,971 |
| Reverse Panda | Various | Daytona | Black dial with white sub dials | S$68,800 |
| John Mayer | 116508 | Daytona | Green dial, yellow gold case, popularized by John Mayer | S$83,800 |
| Paul Newman | 6239, 6241, 6262, etc. | Daytona | Exotic Art Deco dial worn by Paul Newman | N/A |
| Stella Dial | Various | Day-Date | Bright lacquered dials in vivid colors | N/A |
| Ice Blue | 116506 | Daytona | Platinum model with ice blue dial | S$141,800 |
| Leopard | 116598SACO | Daytona | Leopard dial, gem-set bezel, yellow gold case | N/A |
| Zenith Daytona | 16520, 16523, etc. | Daytona | Used Zenith El Primero movement | S$19,564 |
| James Cameron | 126660 | Sea-Dweller Deepsea | Blue-to-black gradient D-Blue dial, Mariana Trench tribute | S$53,500 |
| Pepsi | 6542, 16710, 126710BLRO | GMT-Master / II | Red and blue bezel, Pepsi logo colors | S$24,800 |
| Coke | 16710 | GMT-Master II | Red and black bezel, Coca-Cola inspired | S$14,079 |
| Root Beer | 1675/3, 126711CHNR | GMT-Master / II | Brown and gold bezel, associated with Clint Eastwood | S$26,950 |
| Fat Lady | 16760 | GMT-Master II | Thick case, red and black bezel, sapphire crystal | S$16,496 |
| Polar | 16570, 216570 | Explorer II | White dial, black markers, clean aesthetic | S$12,500 |
| Steve McQueen | 1655 | Explorer II | Orange hand, vintage, nickname despite no verified use by McQueen | N/A |
| President | Various | Day-Date | Named for its President bracelet, worn by U.S. Presidents | N/A |
| Bubbleback | Various (1930s–1950s) |
Oyster Perpetual | Thick rounded case back, early automatic movement | N/A |
| Popeye | Various (Custom/Divers) | Submariner (Rare) | Oversized lume plots resembling Popeye’s arms | N/A |
| John Player Special | 6241, 6264 | Daytona | Black and gold color scheme, Lotus F1 livery inspired | N/A |
Final Word
Rolex nicknames have become an essential part of the watch collecting world, helping enthusiasts quickly identify and connect with iconic models. Whether you’re after the Hulk, the Paul Newman, or the John Player Special, understanding these names adds depth to your appreciation of Rolex watches.
Key Takeaways
- Most Rolex nicknames are created by the collector community, not Rolex itself.
- Nicknames often reflect color schemes, famous owners, or unique features.
- Recognizing these nicknames can help you compare price points, spot trends, and make informed buying decisions.
Looking to buy or sell your luxury watches? Watch Exchange is your one-stop destination for buying Rolex, Patek Philippe, Tissot, Sinn, Zenith, and other luxury timepieces. Find your next watch today!
