When it comes to watches, soccer stars tend to err on the side of dubious taste. While some of Jacob & Co’s timepieces, much favored by this group, are undeniably impressive from a horological standpoint, unless your name is Tony Stark you are liable to look a bit ridiculous wearing one. Which is why Lionel Messi’s watch collection is so smart. While he of course has some fairly out-there pieces, he has balanced these with several iconic Rolex watches which give the collection as a whole some gravitas.
Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami and was awarded the coveted Ballon d’Or as the world’s best soccer player for a record eighth time in 2023, has a net worth estimated north of $500 million, and makes $135 million a year in salary and incentives according to Forbes. So of course he can afford the finest timepieces known to man. He also has his own clothing line as well as a longtime sponsorship deal with Adidas. Audemars Piguet has also designed a watch in homage to him. Here are the top Rolex models he has been seen wearing:
Oyster Perpetual 124300
From the homage to 1970s Stella dials issued in 2020, at 41mm this clocks in as the largest OP on the market. Messi opted for the yellow version, a bold choice that you rarely see in the wild. When most celebrities gravitate toward more obviously expensive pieces, his selection of this vibrant timepiece shows remarkable confidence. A suitable choice for a man who captains not one but two world-class teams.
The watch serves as a perfect example of Rolex’s ability to reference its past while creating something thoroughly modern. While the original Stella dials were found exclusively on Day-Dates, this contemporary interpretation brings that same striking aesthetic to the more accessible Rolex Oyster Perpetual line. The yellow dial version particularly stands out among the collection’s other offerings, making it one of the more photographed pieces in Messi’s rotation.
Day-Date 228206
A fairly subtle flex but a flex nonetheless, this model is coveted thanks to its 18k platinum case, platinum bezel, ice-blue diagonal motif dial with silver-tone hands, Roman numerals, and platinum President bracelet. Among Messi’s collection, it stands as perhaps the most understated piece, though calling any platinum Rolex “understated” might raise some eyebrows.
The diagonal motif dial makes this reference particularly special in the Rolex Day-Date lineup, as it’s one of the more unusual patterns the brand has produced. The ice-blue dial color, reserved exclusively for platinum models, serves as a quiet identifier for those in the know. We’re glad he refrained from adding diamonds, as the piece needs no additional embellishment.
Yacht-Master 126655
In 18k Everose gold on a rubber Oysterflex strap and a ceramic bezel, this Rolex 126655 has never really clicked with us but has garnered an undeniable following. The combination of precious metal and rubber strap might seem counterintuitive, but Rolex has somehow made it work. If you’re into that sort of thing, which Messi clearly is, we have to admit the combo of black and rose gold is striking.
The Oysterflex bracelet, while controversial among purists, represents Rolex’s modern approach to sport luxury. Despite our reservations about the overall design, we can’t deny its growing popularity among younger collectors. The black ceramic bezel provides a perfect contrast to the warm tones of the Everose gold case, creating an unmistakable presence on the wrist.
GMT-Master II “Pepsi” 126710
With its Jubilee bracelet, this extremely popular 126710 BLRO is an homage to the iconic Ref. 1675, which debuted in 1959. The ceramic bezel’s red and blue colors might not have the same charm as the original bakelite versions, but they’ve established their own modern appeal. Messi must often need to keep track of two time zones, so it’s a very practical piece in addition to being damned handsome.
The Jubilee bracelet choice is particularly interesting here, as it adds a touch more sophistication than the traditional Oyster option. While some purists argue for the Oyster’s toolwatch heritage, there’s no denying the Jubilee elevates the overall aesthetic. A major score for his collection, we’d say, particularly given how difficult these are to acquire at retail.
Submariner “Sapphire Smurf” 116659
Not nearly as flashy as the “Rainbow” Daytona, this rare white-gold watch still wows thanks to the sapphire and diamond ornamentation. While the lack of a depth rating on the dial might offend Submariner traditionalists, it’s clear the Rolex 116659 was never meant for diving. And it’s in bad need of a nickname, so we are hereby dubbing it the “Sapphire Smurf.”
The white gold case provides a perfect canvas for the carefully placed sapphires and diamonds, striking a balance between luxury and restraint. It’s a perfect example of how Rolex can elevate a tool watch into something more precious without completely abandoning the original design language. Of course, it would be ridiculous to get it wet, but that’s hardly the point of this particular Sub.
Daytona “Panda” 116500LN
The Panda dial ceramic Daytona has become perhaps the most coveted model in the Rolex catalog, with some reporting the waitlist to be 15 years long. The black and white contrasting subdials have created such fervor among collectors that it’s practically become a status symbol just to own one. We’re pretty sure Messi didn’t have to wait for his; or maybe he made the smart move and acquired it from a reputable reseller.
The watch represents everything that makes modern Rolex so desirable – perfect proportions, stellar movement, and timeless aesthetics that work in any situation. While the original Panda Daytona from decades past command astronomical prices at auction, this ceramic version has managed to become almost as sought-after in its own right. Getting one at retail price has become something of a holy grail for collectors.
Daytona “John Mayer” 116508
The unique green dial on this 18k yellow gold beast makes the Daytona 116508 a relative rarity, and it was discontinued in 2023 adding to its collectability. What started as a relatively under-the-radar Daytona variation has become one of the most discussed models in recent years. In terms of rare Daytona color combos, this one is pretty cool; Messi also owns a meteorite dial Daytona for good measure, also discontinued in 2023.
While some might consider an all-gold Daytona a bit much, the green dial manages to give this reference a character all its own. The discontinuation has only added to its mystique, making Messi’s ownership even more noteworthy. It’s the kind of piece that shows he’s not just collecting the obvious choices but has an eye for interesting variations.
Daytona “Rainbow” 116598
The flashiest Rolex in Messi’s collection is the soon-to-be-iconic “Rainbow Daytona,” so-called for its colorful array of flawless gemstones. Initially thought vulgar by many when first released at Baselworld in 2012, it has since become one of the most sought-after Rolexes in the world. The transformation from criticized to coveted is one of the more interesting stories in modern watch collecting.
What makes this piece particularly special is Rolex’s execution of what could have been a gaudy concept. Each stone is perfectly matched and set with typical Rolex precision, creating something that somehow transcends its flashy nature. While it might be too much for some collectors, its current market value and waitlist suggest that plenty of people have come around to its particular brand of exuberance.
