Rolex is the ultimate flex, the symbol of precision, and the watch that makes even non-watch people stop and stare.
But if you’re new to the Rolex world, you might be confused when people start throwing around names like Hulk, Pepsi, Batman, and Panda as if they’re talking about superheroes, soft drinks, and zoo animals.
Spoiler alert: They’re talking about Rolex watches.
Today, we’re diving deep into the world of Rolex nicknames, giving you the ultimate cheat sheet so you can talk the talk at your next watch meetup.
The Art of Nicknaming: Why Does Rolex Get So Many?
Unlike other watch brands that just go by their official names, Rolex models have been given affectionate (and sometimes hilarious) monikers over the years by collectors, enthusiasts, and pop culture references.
Why?
Because it’s way more fun to call a watch “Hulk” than “116610LV.”
These nicknames usually stem from:
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Colour Combos: Think of the black and blue Rolex nickname (Batman) or the black and red Rolex nickname (Coke).
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Pop Culture & Celebs: Ever heard of the Paul Newman Daytona? That’s because the legendary actor wore it, and now it’s one of the most valuable Rolexes ever.
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History & Functionality: The James Cameron Deepsea was inspired by the filmmaker’s deep-sea dive, and the Polar Explorer II pays tribute to arctic adventurers.
Rolex Submariner Nicknames: A Green Affair
If there’s one Rolex model that has absolutely mastered the art of being an icon, it’s the Rolex Submariner. Launched in 1953, it’s the ultimate diver’s watch, the timepiece James Bond himself rocked on his wrist, and the blueprint for nearly every dive watch made since.
Kermit vs. Hulk: A Battle of Green Giants
These two green Submariners are easily among the most recognisable Rolex watches ever, and while they share a colour theme, they couldn’t be more different in personality.
Kermit (Ref. 16610LV) – The Anniversary Sub
Debuting in 2003 for the 50th anniversary of the Submariner, the Rolex Kermit was a bold departure from the classic black bezel Submariner. Rolex swapped out the usual black for a vibrant green aluminium bezel but kept the black dial, creating an eye-catching contrast that was unlike anything in the lineup at the time.
The nickname Kermit comes from the iconic Muppet character, thanks to its bright green hue that instantly reminded collectors of the lovable frog. But beyond the fun nickname, the Kermit was an instant hit because it retained the classic proportions of the previous Submariner, making it a favourite among traditionalists who wanted just a touch of colour.
Hulk (Ref. 116610LV) – The Bulked-Up Successor
In 2010, Rolex took the green Submariner concept to the next level with the Hulk—and it wasn’t just a bezel swap this time.
The Hulk featured:
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A larger “Super Case”, giving it a bulkier, more aggressive look
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A green sunburst dial to match the green bezel
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A ceramic bezel instead of aluminium, making it more scratch-resistant and durable
If the Kermit was fun and quirky, the Hulk was bold, muscular, and ready to smash through any room with its undeniable presence. While some purists found it too much green, it quickly became one of the most sought-after modern Rolexes.
Rolex GMT-Master II Nicknames: The Soda-Inspired Icons
The Rolex GMT-Master II is another cult classic, originally designed for Pan Am pilots in the 1950s who needed to track multiple time zones. But let’s be real — today, these watches are just as likely to be seen on the wrists of A-list celebrities as they are on pilots.
And if there’s one thing the GMT-Master is known for, it’s those colourful two-tone bezels. Let’s break down the most famous nicknames.
Pepsi (Ref. 126710BLRO, 16710, etc.) – The OG
If there’s a king of Rolex GMT nicknames, it’s the Pepsi.
This red-and-blue bezel GMT has been around since the 1950s, and the name Pepsi comes from the fact that its colour scheme matches the classic soda brand’s logo. Some collectors argue whether Rolex intended it to look like a Pepsi can, but at this point, the name has stuck permanently.
The Pepsi GMT is one of the most collectable Rolex models, with vintage versions fetching jaw-dropping prices. It has also been modernised over the years, now featuring a Cerachrom ceramic bezel and being available in both stainless steel and white gold.
Batman (Ref. 126710BLNR, 116710BLNR) – The Dark Knight’s Watch
If Bruce Wayne wore a Rolex, it would 100% be this one.
The black and blue Rolex nickname Batman comes from its stealthy blue-and-black bezel, which immediately reminded collectors of Gotham’s Caped Crusader.
First introduced in 2013, the Batman was the first Rolex GMT-Master II to feature a bi-colour ceramic bezel, which was a big deal at the time. The blue and black combo makes it one of the most versatile GMTs — daring but not as flashy as the Pepsi.
Root Beer (Ref. 126711CHNR, 16713, etc.) – The Vintage Classic
This brown-and-gold GMT-Master earned its Root Beer nickname because, well… it looks exactly like a frothy glass of root beer. Originally launched in the 1970s, it was famously worn by actors like Clint Eastwood, giving it an extra dose of Hollywood cool.
The modern Root Beer GMT now comes in Everose gold (Rolex’s proprietary rose gold), making it one of the most elegant GMT models available today.
Coke (Ref. 16760, 16710) – The Pepsi’s Darker Twin
Think of the Coke GMT as Pepsi’s edgier cousin. It features a black and red Rolex nickname, thanks to its two-tone bezel that looks exactly like a Coca-Cola can.
Collectors love the Coke GMT because it was produced during the late ‘80s to early 2000s, making it somewhat of a rare find compared to the Pepsi.
Sprite (Ref. 126720VTNR) – The Left-Handed GMT
Released in 2022, the left-handed GMT shocked collectors with its green and black Rolex nickname — the Sprite.
It’s one of the most unique modern Rolexes because it flips the traditional GMT-Master II design by placing the crown on the left side, making it ideal for lefties. The green and black bezel gives it a fresh, citrusy aesthetic, leading to its soda-inspired name.
Rolex Daytona Nicknames: Fast & Stylish
The Rolex Daytona is the ultimate racing watch. Launched in 1963 for professional race car drivers, it has since become one of the most sought-after Rolex models, thanks to its sporty look, chronograph function, and association with Hollywood and motorsports legends.
But let’s be real — nobody calls these watches by their reference numbers. They go by some of the coolest Rolex nicknames list has to offer.
Paul Newman Daytona – The Million-Dollar Icon
When we talk about the most famous nickname for a Rolex watch, this one might just take the crown.
The Paul Newman Daytona refers to a specific dial variation of the Rolex Daytona that actor, race car driver, and all-around legend Paul Newman wore in the 1970s. The dial features contrasting sub-dials with Art Deco-style numerals, making it stand out from standard Daytonas.
So, why is it such a big deal?
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In 2017, Paul Newman’s own Rolex Daytona sold for a record-breaking $17.8 million, making it one of the most expensive watches ever sold at auction.
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It turned the Daytona from an underrated Rolex model into one of the most collectable pieces in history.
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The Paul Newman Daytona is so rare that collectors spend years hunting for the perfect one.
Panda Daytona – A Modern Classic
One of the most beloved Rolex Daytona nicknames in recent years is the Panda Daytona.
Named for its white dial with black sub-dials, this watch gets its nickname from its resemblance to the black-and-white colouring of a panda bear. It’s sleek, stylish, and one of the most desirable modern Daytona models.
If you’re into Rolex watches that blend sportiness with high-end luxury, the Panda Daytona is the watch to look out for.
Rolex Datejust Nickname: The Wimbledon Edition
The Rolex Datejust is one of the most versatile and classic Rolex models ever made. But there’s one variation that has earned a particularly sophisticated nickname — the Wimbledon.
Rolex Datejust “Wimbledon” (Ref. 126334, 126300, etc.)
This Datejust variation is named Wimbledon because of its green Roman numerals, which are said to resemble the famous grass courts of the legendary tennis tournament.
It’s a perfect blend of sporty and elegant, making it a favourite for both casual and formal occasions. Who wouldn’t want a Rolex with a name associated with one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world?
Rolex Sea-Dweller: A Deep Dive into Nicknames
The Rolex Sea-Dweller is built for deep-sea explorers. While it doesn’t get as many nicknames as the Submariner or GMT-Master, it has one very special nickname that watch lovers need to know.
James Cameron (Ref. 126660) – The Deepsea Explorer’s Watch
The Rolex Deepsea James Cameron is named after the famous filmmaker who directed Titanic and Avatar.
But why?
In 2012, James Cameron took a historic solo dive to the bottom of the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the ocean. Rolex designed a special Deepsea Challenge watch for the mission, proving their watches could handle extreme depths.
To commemorate this achievement, Rolex released the Deepsea James Cameron (Ref. 126660) with a gradient blue-to-black dial that mimics the deep-sea descent.
Collectors love it not just for its incredible engineering (water-resistant to 3,900 meters!) but also because of its unique connection to an epic real-life adventure.
Rolex Milgauss: Electrifying Nicknames
The Rolex Milgauss was designed in 1956 for scientists working in high-magnetic environments. The Milgauss can withstand up to 1,000 gauss of magnetism (hence the name Mil–1000, Gauss–unit of magnetic field strength).
And, of course, it comes with some cool nicknames.
Z-Blue (Ref. 116400GV) – The Electrifying Dial
The Milgauss Z-Blue gets its nickname from its striking blue dial, which looks almost neon under certain lighting conditions. Combine that with the orange lightning bolt second-hand, and you’ve got one of the most unique Rolex colour nicknames ever.
Glacier – A Cool, Icy Look
The Glacier nickname is more commonly associated with Platinum Rolex models featuring ice-blue dials, but some collectors also use it for the Milgauss due to its frosty blue tones.
The Rolex Explorer II: Polar & Hollywood Legends
The Rolex Explorer II is all about adventure, rugged durability, and extreme conditions. While it doesn’t have as many nicknames as the GMT or Daytona, the ones it does have are legendary.
Polar (Ref. 16570, 216570, 226570) – The Arctic Explorer
The white-dial Explorer II is known as the Polar because it was designed for polar explorers and spelunkers (cave explorers) who needed a watch that was both ultra-legible in low-light environments and built to withstand extreme conditions.
It’s one of the cleanest, most versatile Rolex sports watches, making it a favourite among adventure lovers.
Steve McQueen (Ref. 1655) – The Hollywood Connection
Even though there’s no actual proof that legendary actor Steve McQueen wore the Rolex Explorer II Ref. 1655, the nickname stuck, and now it’s one of the most famous Explorer models in Rolex history.
Collectors love the orange 24-hour hand and the rugged design, which give it a distinctly vintage adventure feel.
Rolex Day-Date: Fit for a President
The President (Ref. 1803, 18238, 228238, etc.)
This one is an official title.
The Rolex Day-Date earned its President nickname because several U.S. presidents have worn it, including Lyndon B. Johnson, Ronald Reagan, and Donald Trump.
It’s also the ultimate power watch, often seen on the wrists of CEOs, world leaders, and industry moguls. If you want a Rolex that screams success, this is it.
Final Thoughts: What’s Your Favorite Rolex Nickname?
A Rolex is a conversation starter, a symbol of craftsmanship, and, thanks to its legendary nicknames, a piece of pop culture history.
Whether you’re flexing a Hulk, channelling your inner Dark Knight with a Batman, or keeping it classy with a Paul Newman Daytona, each Rolex tells a unique story that goes beyond timekeeping.
But the fun doesn’t stop here!
Rolex collectors and enthusiasts are always coming up with new nicknames, especially with every fresh release. So, will the next big Rolex nickname take inspiration from another superhero, a soda brand, or something completely unexpected?
Only time will tell!
At Love Luxury, we believe that luxury should be timeless and accessible. That’s why we offer a wide collection of pre-loved Rolex watches, offering authenticated, high-quality timepieces that carry their own history and character.
Whether you’re looking for a rare vintage Pepsi GMT, a sought-after Wimbledon Datejust, or a hard-to-find Root Beer GMT, we’ve got the perfect Rolex waiting for you.
