Drake has flexed many an enviable Rolex during his time in the public eye—rocking an off-catalog Sky-Dweller in the music video for “Staying Alive,” double-wristing a Sky-Dweller and Daytona at a concert in Canada, and sporting a Day-Date “Tiffany” courtside at a Toronto Raptors game, for starters. But it’s a GMT-Master II he wore while ascending to stardom in the early 2000s that could wind up on your wrist.
The Ref. 116758SANR, offered by watch dealer Eric Wind of Wind Vintage, famously appeared on the Canadian rapper’s wrist on the cover of his second studio album, Take Care. Released in 2011, the album is considered one of the best in his repertoire, selling over 10 million copies and earning him a Grammy. Drake wore the watch for the cover art and additional photographs by Hyghly Alleyne and Lamar Taylor. He also strapped it on for the music video for “Marvin’s Room.”
Unveiled in 2006, this particular GMT-Master II ranked among the rarest and most expensive Rollies of the era. It was part of a series of gem-set references that were released as more luxurious takes on the 1980s original. It is not known exactly how many exist—Rolex does not disclose production numbers—but it is likely very few were made due to the extreme intricacy of gem setting. Each diamond is hand-set by the Crown’s master jewelers, resulting in a longer, more intensive production period.
The reference is believed to have been discontinued in 2012, making it even more coveted. Wind Vintage claims it is rarer than both the Daytona “Rainbow” (Ref. 116595RBOW) and GMT-Master II “Saru” (Ref. 126755ASARU), in fact, with even fewer available on the secondary market. Pre-owned examples trade for around $100,000 on sites like Chrono24, but this piece is listed for $500,000 because of its ties to Champagne Papi.
Provenance and rarity aside, the watch is an aesthetic stunner. The 40 mm case and Oyster bracelet are crafted in 18-karat gold and elegantly contrasted by a black dial and a gem-set bezel showcasing 36 baguette-cut diamonds plus 12 black sapphires. The sapphires—one of which is shaped like a triangle—not only serve as hour markers but can be used to calculate a third time zone, making the watch not only beautiful but practical. The lugs and crown guards are decorated with yet more diamonds. Flip it over, the caseback is engraved with the own logo for Drake’s October’s Very Own (OVO) lifestyle brand and record label, making this a true pièce unique.
Drake is no stranger to rare or one-of-a-kind watches, of course. His collection includes a Patek Philippe Nautilus customized by the late, great fashion designer Virgil Abloh and that off-catalog Rolex Sky-Dweller (Ref. 326259TBR) we mentioned earlier.
This particular piece was purchased in 2011. It comes to market from the original owner, who was one of Drake’s colleagues during the early stages of his career. It shows minor wear on the clasp, and the case is unpolished. Wind Vintage does not know the service history but says the watch is running well and comes full set (with the box and papers). It also comes with OVO memorabilia, including the OWL statue from the album cover, clothing, and backstage passes. Best act fast, Drake fans.
