In luxury watches, few brands are as iconic as Rolex. Over the decades, Rolex watches have not only become symbols of prestige and precision but have also developed a culture and language of their own.
Watch enthusiasts and collectors often use nicknames to refer to specific Rolex models. These nicknames are a significant part of the Rolex lore and language. Many collectors use reference numbers for their beloved Rolex, but we love the lexicon of luxury.
Why do Rolex watches have nicknames?
To start, Rolex watches often have nicknames because of their distinctive design elements, colors, and historical significance. These nicknames, though unofficial, have become widely recognized in the watch collecting community, adding a layer of charm and personality to the timepieces.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most popular Rolex watch nicknames and dive into their meanings and origins. Then, you’ll be an expert in Rolex lingo.
The Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner watch launched in 1953, known as the first divers’ wristwatch. The Rolex Submariner is the ultimate luxury watch. Collectors and watch experts are extra passionate about these models, giving them quirky nicknames based on their designs. There are several standout models that we’ll cover here including: “Hulk,” “Kermit,” “Bluesy,” “Smurf,” and “Cookie Monster.”
Rolex Submariner “Hulk” with Green/Green Dial
The Rolex Submariner 116610LV, more commonly known as “The Hulk,” is a striking model that stands out because of its vivid green dial and matching green bezel. Introduced in 2010, this watch quickly earned its superhero moniker because of its green color scheme and sapphire with cyclops lens. The name “Hulk” perfectly captures the watch’s powerful presence, making it a favorite among collectors who appreciate unique and vibrant designs. The style was discontinued in 2020, making it hard to get your hands on.
Rolex Submariner “Kermit” with Green Dial Black Bezel
Before there was “The Hulk,” there was “The Kermit.” Released in 2003 to celebrate the Submariner’s 50th anniversary, the “Kermit” Rolex Submariner model features a 40mm green aluminum bezel paired with a classic black dial and an Oyster bracelet. The nickname “Kermit” comes from the famous green Muppet character, reflecting the watch’s playful yet sophisticated aesthetic. The Kermit has since become a sought-after collector’s item because of its limited production run and distinctive look
Rolex Submariner Date “Starbucks”
Similar to the “Kermit,” the “Starbucks” rocks a dark green dial. “The Starbucks” has a 41mm with ceramic bezel and glide lock for bracelet extension.
Rolex watch expert pro-tip: “Kermit” was discontinued and replaced with “Hulk” (green bezel and green dial). Then “Hulk” was discontinued and replaced with “Starbucks.” “Starbucks” is the current Submariner Date with a green bezel.
Rolex Submariner Date “Bluesy” with Blue/Gold
“Bluesy” is the nickname for the Rolex Submariner Date models with a blue dial and blue bezel, particularly the 16613 and 116613LB models. These watches are crafted from stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, creating a striking two-tone appearance. The Bluesy nickname captures the watch’s vibrant blue color and the luxurious feel of the gold accents, making it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and versatile timepiece.
Rolex Submariner “Smurf” with Blue/Blue Dial
The Rolex Submariner 116619LB, also known as “The Smurf,” named for its bright blue dial and matching blue bezel, reminiscent of the beloved blue cartoon characters. Released in 2008, this watch is constructed from 18k white gold, adding a touch of luxury to its playful nickname. The Smurf’s striking blue color and high-end materials make it a favorite among collectors who appreciate both aesthetics and craftsmanship. The case on the Smurf features a 40mm case.
Rolex Submariner “Cookie Monster” with Blue/Black Dial
The Rolex Submariner 126619LB model is the second iteration of “The Smurf,” affectionately nicknamed “Cookie Monster” with a 41mm 18k white gold case with a vibrant blue ceramic bezel and a black dial. The 18k white gold case makes “The Cookie Monster” especially luxurious.
Rolex watch expert pro-tip: While the original (116619 “Smurf”) featured a blue bezel and matching blue dial; the “Cookie Monster” pairs the vibrant blue bezel with a sharp black dial. Besides the color change, the case on the “Cookie Monster” increased to 41mm in diameter and received the next-generation caliber 3235 Perpetual movement.
Bonus Rolex Collector Nickname: “Red Sub”
Though not technically a specific Rolex model, the “Red Sub” nickname refers to vintage Rolex Submariner 1680 models that feature the word “Submariner” in a red text on the dial. Produced in the late 1960s and 1970s, the Red Sub has become highly collectible because of its unique dial variation and limited production run. The red text adds a subtle yet distinctive touch to the classic Submariner design, making it a favorite among vintage Rolex enthusiasts. A Rolex with a “Red Sub” is a key piece in any serious watch collection.
The Rolex GMT-Master and GMT-Master II Nicknames
The original GMT-Master 6542, introduced in the 1950s, was designed for Pan American World Airways pilots and featured the red and blue bezel to help distinguish between day and night hours. The Rolex GMT-Master II is the successor to the model created in 1955 for airline pilots. It is the ideal watch for crisscrossing the globe, according to Rolex.
With an additional 24-hour hand and a two-color rotatable graduated bezel, the GMT-Master II is known for simultaneously displaying two different times. At a glance, the wearer can see the time in their current location and in another part of the world. It also features a chromalight display that allows the hands and hour markers filled with luminescent material to emit a long-lasting glow in the dark. Standout models include the GMT-Master II “Batman,” “Batgirl,” “Coke,” “Pepsi,” and “Root Beer.”
Rolex GMT-Master II “Batman” with Blue/Black Bezel
The GMT Master II 116710BLNR, also known as “The Batman,” is a beloved Rolex model with a superhero-inspired nickname. This watch features a bi-colored bezel in blue and black, reminiscent of the Dark Knight’s iconic color scheme. Introduced in 2013, “The Batman” quickly gained popularity for its modern design, offering the ability to track multiple time zones simultaneously and sports a three-piece oystersteel bracelet.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Batgirl” with Blue/Black Bezel
Nearly identical to its predecessor “Batman,” the visible difference is that “Batgirl” has a five-piece jubilee bracelet and “Batman” has a three-piece oystersteel bracelet. Both Batman and Batgirl watches feature the blue and black bezel. The contrast between the elegant bracelet with a more utilitarian case makes the “Batgirl” model very popular and incredibly valuable.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Bruce Wayne” with Black Bezel
This new iteration of the previous “Batman” and “Batgirl,” features a two-tone half black and half gray bezel with a stunning black dial.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Coke” with Black/Red Bezel
The “Coke” features an iconic two-tone half black and half red bezel. Made from stainless steel and features an automatic movement with GMT and date complications, a black dial, red and black Coca Cola-inspired aluminum bezel, and an Oyster bracelet.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Sprite” with Green/Black Bezel
Those looking to buy this watch will recognize the “Sprite” model from a mile away. The “Sprite” features a two-tone half green bezel, half black dial, a pairing that evokes the soda it’s nicknamed for. Celebrities like David Beckham, Ed Sheeran, and LeBron James have worn the “Sprite”
Fun fact: The “Sprite” is the first left-handed Rolex ever made with a crown position at 9 instead of 3 o’clock.
Rolex GMT-Master GMT-Master II “Pepsi” with Red/Blue Bezel
One of the most famous Rolex nicknames, “The Pepsi,” refers to the GMT-Master and GMT-Master II models with a red and blue bezel. The color combination is reminiscent of the Pepsi logo, hence the nickname. The red and blue ceramic bezel also pays homage to the original GMT Master launched in 1954 featuring the same colors.
There’s even a Rolex GMT Master II that features an incredible meteorite dial–yes, from outer space–which has unique, one of a kind markings and striations from centuries of history. This makes a Rolex GMT Master II Pepsi meteorite incredibly rare and impossible to counterfeit. Mark Wahlberg famously has a Rolex GMT Master II Pepsi as part of his collection.
Rolex GMT-Master GMT-Master II “Root Beer” with Brown/Gold Bezel
“The Root Beer” nickname is for GMT-Master and GMT-Master II models that feature a brown and gold bezel. The color combination reminds collectors of a root beer beverage, giving the watch its distinctive name. First appearing in the 1960s, The Root Beer has seen various iterations, including models with two-tone steel and gold bracelets.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Nicknames
The Daytona model was originally designed for race car drivers, allowing the wearer to measure time and calculate average lap speed. The model pays homage to Daytona Beach, Florida, popular home of car racing. A key part of the model’s identity is the bezel molded with a tachymetric scale for measuring average speeds of up to 400 miles or kilometers per hour. Launched in 1963, the famous Daytona racetrack and the racecar profession inspired the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona. According to Rolex, the Cosmograph Daytona stands out by its chronometric precision, its distinctive bezel, minute track, and three counters. Standout models include the Rolex Daytona “Panda,” and “Paul Newman.”
Rolex Daytona “Panda” with White Dial/Black Bezel
The “Panda” nickname is for certain Rolex Daytona models that feature a white dial with black sub-dials, resembling the face of a panda bear. This color scheme offers a striking contrast and a sporty, yet elegant appearance. The nickname is especially popular among collectors who appreciate the Daytona’s racing heritage and iconic design. John Mayer often wears his Rolex Daytona “Panda”–rumor has it that he was one of the first people to wear it.
Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” with Black Dial/Gold Subdials
Perhaps the most famous Rolex nickname, “The Paul Newman,” refers to specific Rolex Daytona models with exotic dials, characterized by their art déco style numerals and contrasting color schemes plus a small “step” in the dial between the outer minute track and the center of the dial. The nickname originated from the legendary actor and race car driver Paul Newman, often seen wearing his Daytona. These watches have become some of the most valuable and collectible Rolex models, with certain pieces fetching millions at auction. There are several different dial variations on the “Paul Newman” style
The 4 Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” models
- White dial
- Champagne dial
- Black dial with gold subdials (“John Player Special”)
- Yellow gold dial with black subdials (“Pikachu”)
Rolex Daytona “Platona” in Platinum
A catchy portmanteau, the “Platona” got its clever moniker as being the first platinum-case Daytona (Platinum + Daytona = “Platona.”) It made its debut in 2013 as the 50th anniversary Daytona, made of 950 platinum. Its dial is a stunning ice blue with chestnut brown in its ceramic (Cerachrom) bezel. Platinum, for its silvery whiteness, is among the densest and heaviest metals in the world, distinguished by unique chemical and physical properties such as corrosion resistance.
Rolex Explorer Nicknames
As the name suggests, the Rolex Explorer and Explorer II (introduced in 1971) is a watch designed for adventurers and explorers. Information gathered from an Everest expedition inspired the design in 1953. Known for its rugged and functional design, the Explorer features a classic dial with large numerals and reliable automatic movement. Standout models include the “Steve McQueen” and “Polar.”
Rolex Explorer II “Steve McQueen”
The Rolex Explorer II 1655, known as “The Steve McQueen,” is a vintage model associated with the legendary actor and motorsport enthusiast Steve McQueen. Although there is no concrete evidence that McQueen wore this model, the association has persisted over the years. The 1655 features a distinctive orange 24-hour hand and a fixed steel bezel with 24-hour markings, designed for spelunkers and adventurers.
Rolex Sea-Dweller “James Cameron”
The Rolex Sea-Dweller, also known as “James Cameron,” commemorates the filmmaker James Cameron’s historic solo dive to the bottom of the Mariana Trench. This watch features a unique “D-Blue” dial that transitions from deep blue to black, symbolizing the ocean’s depths. The nickname celebrates the watch’s connection to exploration and adventure.
Rolex Explorer II “Polar” with White Dial
“Polar” is the nickname given to Rolex Explorer II models with a white dial. The stark white dial contrasts with the black hour markers and hands, giving the watch a crisp, clean appearance. The Polar nickname reflects the watch’s intended use for adventurers and explorers in snowy environments where readability is crucial.
Rolex Nicknames: Still Unofficial But Loved By Collectors
Rolex nicknames are an integral part of the brand’s culture, adding a layer of personality and storytelling to these already legendary timepieces. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of Rolex, understanding these nicknames can broaden your appreciation for these watches. From the vibrant “Hulk” to the iconic “Paul Newman,” each nickname tells a unique story, making Rolex watches not just tell time, but also symbols of style, heritage, and passion
With Rolex watches, there’s a wealth of information to explore, especially if you’re just learning about them. Whether you’re an avid collector or simply looking for a luxury watch that will last a lifetime, Rolex is an ultra-luxury brand you can trust. Shop 100% pre-loved Rolex watches at FASHIONPHILE. And if you’re curious, this post covers how our timepiece experts authenticate luxury watches.
