Positioned as the globetrotter’s watch, the Sky-Dweller is one of Rolex’s larger and more expensive models. In fact, up until very recently, this particular Rolex was exclusively in 18k gold. Perhaps it is because of its larger size and hefty price tag that the Sky-Dweller is a favorite among the world’s top athletes. From football to soccer to UFC to basketball, there are several sportsmen that have a Sky-Dweller in his collection. Join us as we take a closer look at the Sky-Dweller model and which athletes own one (or two). Let the games begin.
A Celebrity Sky-Dweller
The Rolex Sky-Dweller collection made its debut in 2012 and its launch was a surprise to many. Not only did it look quite different to already established Rolex models, it also featured functions that were new to modern Rolex watches. Size wise, the Sky-Dweller is 42mm. This is notably larger than dress watches like the 36mm Datejust or sports watches like the 40mm Submariner.
Since the Sky-Dweller is touted as the ultimate traveler’s luxury watch, its functions are practical for those who regularly find themselves in different time zones. For instance, the Sky-Dweller has an annual calendar. Therefore, the dial displays the time, date, and month of the year. Plus, as long as the watch keeps running, the only time the watch needs adjusting is on March 1st. In addition to the annual calendar, there’s also two time zone indicators.
Until Baselworld 2017, the Sky-Dweller was only available in gold. Three shades to be precise: yellow, white, or Everose gold. Its previous metal of choice made the Sky-Dweller one pricey Rolex to own. But now, to the delight of many, there are two Rolesor versions. The stainless steel Sky-Dweller with an 18k white gold bezel, as well as the two-tone steel and 18k yellow gold Sky-Dweller.
NBA and NFL Athletes Who Wear the Sky-Dweller
Whether it’s because of the Sky-Dweller’s edgier design, its ability to track different time zones, its larger size, or its eye-popping price tag, some of the best athletes in sports today gravitate towards this particular Rolex. For instance. NBA superstar LeBron James has been spotted wearing a Sky-Dweller.
His choice is the full 18k yellow gold version. Fellow NBA star, Andre Iguodala from the Golden State Warriors also sports a Sky-Dweller, but his is the full 18k Everose gold version. In case you haven’t heard, Rolex produces their own patented pink gold alloy—dubbed Everose—at their in-house foundries.
Along with top basketball players, leading football players are also fans of the Rolex Sky-Dweller. Take Julio Jones, the wide receiver for the Atlanta Falcons, for example. He has several Rolex watches to his name, including a full 18k yellow gold Sky-Dweller. Retired NFL player, Demarcus Ware of Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos fame, often wears his Everose gold Sky-Dweller with the chocolate dial.
UFC Champs and Soccer stars love the Sky-Dweller too
MMA legend and UFC champ, Conor McGregor, may be brutal in the ring, but he also enjoys the finer things in life. In fact, he has quite an incredible luxury watch collection including watches from Patek Philippe, Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet, and of course, Rolex. Among his Rolex watches, Conor McGregor seems to favor his Everose gold Sky-Dweller with the chocolate dial.
Soccer star and the world’s highest-paid athlete last year with estimated earnings of $88 million, Cristiano Ronaldo, is also the world’s most popular athlete with legions of fans from every corner of the globe. Ronaldo may be an official brand ambassador for TAG Heuer, but he’s been seen many times wearing a Rolex—like the full yellow gold Sky-Dweller—on his wrist too.
Although the Sky-Dweller is not a Rolex sports watch, but rather a sporty luxury dress watch, it’s certainly favored by top sports pros. Particularly those athletes who are at the top of their sartorial game.
Do you know any other athletes that sport a Rolex Sky-Dweller on his (or her) wrist? If you do, let us know in the comments below.
