Despite the hype around Rolex’s Land-Dweller debut at Watches and Wonders, the Daytona’s legacy remains untouchable. A recent Hodinkee feature on eight new or updated Daytona models drew nearly as much attention as the Land-Dweller itself—solidifying the line’s enduring appeal.
The standout? The Rolex Daytona Ref. 126508, nicknamed the ”John Mayer 2.0″ by collectors. While most tweaks were subtle, this yellow-gold version with a turquoise lacquer dial and Oysterflex bracelet broke tradition. Yet the real headline was the return of the green-dial “John Mayer” Daytona, now reimagined for 2025.
A Nod to History
Six years ago, musician and watch enthusiast John Mayer championed the original Ref. 116508, an all-gold Daytona with a vibrant green dial. Dubbed the “John Mayer Daytona,” it gained cult status before being discontinued in 2023. Its successor, the Ref. 126508, delivers a modern twist on the classic.
The most striking update: the green sunburst dial now pairs with yellow subdials, replacing the previous red accents—a deliberate callback to 1970s Rolex design. The result? A warmer, vintage-inspired aesthetic without sacrificing contemporary flair.
Under the Hood
Powering the new model is the Caliber 4131 movement, featuring a 72-hour power reserve, Chronergy escapement, and Paraflex shock absorption. Though Rolex kept the closed caseback, the upgrades in precision and resilience are undeniable.
The 40mm case stays true to the Daytona’s iconic proportions, now paired with an Oyster bracelet equipped with EasyLink adjustment. Priced at 10,000 premium over its predecessor—driven by rising gold costs and tariffs.
Why It Matters
For collectors, this Daytona strikes a rare balance between neo-vintage allure and cutting-edge craftsmanship. The dial’s chameleon-like shift—from deep emerald in shadow to radiant green in sunlight—recalls elusive 1990s “Chairman” dials, once exclusive to Rolex insiders.
As Hodinkee’s team observed, the watch ”looks even better in person than in renders”—a testament to Rolex’s mastery of light and texture. Whether it’s the gold-and-green nostalgia or the enhanced mechanics, the “John Mayer 2.0” cements its place in the Daytona’s storied lineage
