Nicknames
What does “John Mayer” mean?
Daytona, yellow gold, green dial.
John Mayer, explained
'John Mayer' is the nickname for the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116508 in 18k yellow gold with a green sunburst dial. Rolex introduced the green dial on this reference in 2016, and it stayed in the range until the 116508 was replaced by the new generation in 2023. The name comes from the musician John Mayer, a well-known watch collector who wore and spoke publicly about his own example.
The pairing of yellow gold with a vivid green dial gave the watch a very distinctive look, and the nickname helped make it one of the most talked-about modern gold Daytonas. Buyers typically check the card date, the full set, the condition of the gold case and bracelet (gold marks and stretches more easily than steel) and whether the case has been polished. Green dials have appeared on other Daytona references too, including the newer generation, so always confirm the reference 116508 alongside the dial in a listing.
Example: 'John Mayer 116508, 2019, full set, unpolished, slight wear on the clasp.'
The watch
The references this term refers to, with their key specs.
Related terms
Pepsi
GMT-Master or GMT-Master II with a blue and red bezel
Batman
GMT-Master II, blue/black bezel
Batgirl
GMT-Master II, blue/black on Jubilee
Sprite
GMT-Master II, green/black, left-hand crown
Coke
GMT-Master (II), red/black bezel
Root Beer
GMT-Master II, brown/black bezel
Fat Lady
GMT-Master II, thicker case
Hulk
Submariner Date, green dial and bezel
Soda glossary