In the rarefied realm of vintage Rolex collecting, certain watches transcend mere value to become icons. A prime example materialized recently at Sotheby’s London, where a breathtakingly rare replica Rolex Daytona reference 6264, known as the “John Player Special” (JPS), commanded an astonishing £1,218,000 (approximately $1.54 million USD). This extraordinary result wasn’t just a personal best for a JPS Daytona; it set new benchmarks as the most expensive wristwatch ever sold in the UK and the most expensive ever sold in an online auction globally. 
The “John Player Special” moniker instantly resonates with collectors, drawing inspiration from the iconic black and gold livery of the John Player & Sons-sponsored Lotus Formula One cars of the 1970s. This particular Daytona elevates its desirability beyond the already scarce JPS designation. Crucially, it boasts an 18k yellow gold case – a configuration believed to exist in only about ten examples, contrasting sharply with the more common stainless steel JPS models. Adding another layer of exclusivity, it features the highly coveted “Paul Newman” exotic dial, rendered in deep, lustrous black. Presented with an estimate of £320,000-£640,000 ($400,000-$800,000), fierce bidding propelled the watch far beyond expectations, cementing its status as a horological trophy.
This landmark sale underscores the enduring power and escalating value of the most exceptional vintage Rolex watches. While online auctions gained significant traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, platforms like Sotheby’s have demonstrated their capacity to achieve extraordinary results, solidifying their place in high-end replica watch sales. The house’s performance in 2025 alone, exceeding $48 million in watch sales prior to this event, hints at a robust and evolving market where records are increasingly challenged.
Shifting gears dramatically, accessible style finds compelling expression in Timex’s expanding Q collection. Following the enthusiastic reception of the 2025 debut Q Timex featuring a “Pepsi” bezel (mirroring the blue-and-red aesthetic of the Rolex GMT-Master), the line has flourished. The latest additions introduce three distinctive models featuring gold-tone cases alongside a highly anticipated iteration: the “Coke” bezel variant. 
This new “Coke” model differentiates itself clearly. Its bezel transitions from red to black, replacing the Pepsi’s blue-and-red scheme. Complementing this, the dial adopts a sleek black finish, moving away from the blue dial of its predecessor. Beyond these aesthetic shifts, it retains the core appeal of the original Q reissue: a 38mm stainless steel case, a charmingly retro bracelet, and the reliable quartz movement signified by the “Q” designation. The accompanying gold-tone models offer further variety with cases finished in yellow gold and rose gold tones. While these also feature bicolor bezels (and coordinating dial hues – blue for the yellow-gold model, brown for the rose-gold), the primary focus rests on the warm patina and distinct character imparted by their gilded cases, offering a touch of vintage-inspired glamour at a remarkably approachable price point.