John Mayer's Watch Collection: A Deep Dive

This video takes a look at John Mayer's impressive watch collection, focusing on some truly iconic pieces. We explore the history and significance of several Rolex Daytonas, including the one that earned Mayer his nickname, and touch upon some stunning Patek Philippe models. It's a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-end horology.

The Rolex Daytona: More Than Just a Name

The Rolex Daytona is a significant watch, and its connection to John Mayer is a story in itself. The yellow gold, green dial Daytona is famously known as the "John Mayer." This particular model is a 6265, one of the last manual-wound Daytonas, produced until 1988. Mayer himself owns a 1987 variation.

Key Takeaways:

• The "John Mayer" Daytona is the yellow gold, green dial version.
• The 6265 is the final reference for manual-wound Daytonas.
• Custom orders, like removing the Rolex name from the dial, were possible for very important clients.

Rare and Remarkable Daytonas

Some of the most collectible Daytonas are those with customisations, like the absence of the Rolex name on the dial. These were special orders, requiring significant influence. The transcript mentions a trade involving three Arab-dial Rolex sport watches for one Patek Philippe 5004, highlighting the value placed on these rare pieces.

Rolex needed a competitor to the Speedmaster during the space race era, leading to the creation of the Daytona in 1963. The reference 6239 was the first Daytona. Even after over 60 years, the Daytona remains incredibly popular, with Paul Newman models fetching astronomical prices. The focus is shifting towards non-Paul Newman Daytonas as well.

Gold Daytonas and Unique Dials

The Rolex Daytona reference 6263 in yellow gold is discussed, with a mention of the rarer 14-karat variation. This was produced due to high import taxes on gold in America, making the watch more competitive.

Another fascinating piece is a Daytona with a pulsation dial, used to measure heart rate. These are incredibly rare, with fewer than 10 verified examples. The idea was for a doctor to use a Daytona for this purpose, and Rolex actually produced the custom dial.

The "Rainbow" Daytona and Collector's Appeal

The 6269 and 6270 models are the original "rainbow" Daytonas, featuring colourful gemstones. There's debate about the exact number produced, with figures ranging from eight to ten. The condition of one example, with pristine gear teeth, suggests it was kept in a safe for a long time.

While the aesthetic might be divisive initially, seeing a rainbow Daytona in person can change one's mind. The appeal lies in its uniqueness and the story behind its creation. Collectors like Jay Leno are cited as inspirations, demonstrating a passion for unique and interesting vehicles and, by extension, watches.

The "John Mayer" Effect on Modern Daytonas

The video highlights how the "John Mayer" association significantly boosted the value of the yellow gold, green dial Daytona. A watch that was once available below retail became incredibly sought after, with prices soaring.

This surge in popularity began around 2016 when Rolex released ceramic bezel Daytonas, including the white gold and yellow gold versions with blue and green dials respectively. The green dial, yellow gold Daytona is now synonymous with John Mayer.

Patek Philippe: A Legacy of Complications

The conversation then shifts to Patek Philippe, a brand that was central to John Mayer's collection early on. The Patek Philippe 5970 is mentioned as a significant piece, representing the end of an era for the Lemania-based movement.

The Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

Patek Philippe's first publicly advertised complication was the perpetual calendar chronograph. The reference 1518 was the first to be catalogued and promoted. A perpetual calendar tracks day, date, month, year, and leap years, often including a moon phase. The chronograph function allows for precise time measurement.

Lemania Movements and Patek Philippe's Evolution

The 5970 is noted as the last Patek Philippe perpetual calendar chronograph to use parts from other movement manufacturers, specifically Lemania. In 2006, Patek Philippe began producing its own integrated chronograph movements. The 5270 is the successor, featuring a fully in-house movement.

The aesthetic of the 5970, with its American typewriter font numerals, is praised for its