Lifestyle
The First Rolex ‘Rainbow’ Daytona at Auction for $3.5 Million
The highly coveted and iconic Rolex ‘Rainbow’ Daytona chronograph, a rare timepiece from the 1990s, is set to hit the auction block this November. It is making headlines due to this event. The watch, known for its vibrant, multicolored sapphire bezel, is expected to draw significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Rolex ‘Rainbow’ Daytona at Auction for $3.5 Million is big news.
The Rolex brand, synonymous with luxury, precision, and innovation, has a storied history that dates back to the early 20th century. Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London, the company was originally named Wilsdorf and Davis. The founders focused on producing high-quality wristwatches at a time when pocket watches were the norm. The name “Rolex” was registered in 1908. This name was chosen for its short, memorable nature and ease of pronunciation in various languages, much like the acclaim the Rainbow Daytona model garners.
Rolex quickly became known for its precision and reliability. In 1910, a Rolex watch became the first wristwatch in the world to receive the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision. This certification was awarded by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne. It cemented Rolex’s reputation for accuracy and excellence, similar to how the Rainbow Daytona stands out in the luxury timepiece market.
In 1926, Rolex introduced the Oyster, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. This became a major breakthrough in watchmaking. This innovation was famously demonstrated when Mercedes Gleitze, a British swimmer, wore an Oyster during her swim across the English Channel. The watch emerged in perfect working condition, proving its waterproof capabilities. This earned Rolex widespread acclaim, akin to the admiration for the Rainbow Daytona’s design.
The 1950s and 60s saw Rolex cement its position as the watch of choice for professionals and adventurers. Iconic models like the Submariner, the first diving watch waterproof to a depth of 100 meters, were introduced during this period. The GMT-Master, designed for pilots to track multiple time zones, also made its debut then. These models remain highly sought after by collectors. They are still in production today, albeit with modern updates. As collectors pursue vintage models, the Rolex Rainbow Daytona remains one of the most desirable.
The Daytona, another legendary Rolex model, was first introduced in 1963. It was designed as a high-performance chronograph for professional racing drivers. It was named after the famous Daytona International Speedway in Florida. The Daytona’s association with motorsport legend Paul Newman in the 1970s significantly boosted its popularity. Models like the “Paul Newman Daytona” have become some of the most collectable watches in the world, with the Rainbow Daytona standing out among them.
The Rolex ‘Rainbow’ Daytona, which first appeared in the 1990s, is an extraordinary iteration of the Daytona line. With its bezel set with a gradient of colored sapphires, the ‘Rainbow’ Daytona quickly became a grail piece for collectors. Its design exudes both luxury and boldness. Its rarity and distinctive aesthetic add to its value, similar to the appeal of the Rainbow Daytona model.
The upcoming auction of the first-ever Rolex ‘Rainbow’ Daytona chronograph in Geneva on November 8 is a momentous event. This event is highly significant in the watch world. This particular watch is expected to fetch more than $3.5 million, a testament to its rarity, echoing the allure of the Rainbow Daytona’s vibrant design. The enduring appeal of Rolex contributes to this expectation. Phillips, the auction house managing the sale, has opted not to set a high estimate value. They are confident in the piece’s ability to surpass expectations.
Rolex’s ability to blend innovation, durability, and timeless design has solidified its place at the pinnacle of the luxury watch market. The brand’s watches are not just tools for telling time but symbols of status, achievement, and impeccable craftsmanship. As Rolex continues to set benchmarks in the watchmaking industry, its models, particularly rare and historical pieces like the ‘Rainbow’ Daytona, remain highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
On November 8, in Geneva, the auction house Phillips will present this extraordinary Rolex at its sale. The ‘Rainbow’ Daytona has long been considered one of the most desirable and sought-after Rolex models. It is valued not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its rarity and historical significance. Despite its prominence, Phillips has made the unusual decision not to assign a high estimate value to the watch. This strategy suggests confidence in the piece’s ability to surpass expectations. However, it is anticipated to fetch at least 3 million Swiss francs, equivalent to around $3.5 million.
This particular model has garnered a legendary status among collectors, not least because of its rarity. Rolex produced only a limited number of these watches. They have become increasingly difficult to acquire, particularly in pristine condition. The ‘Rainbow’ Daytona’s value has steadily appreciated over the years, similar to the growing demand for the iconic Rainbow Daytona Rolex. This makes it a prized possession for those fortunate enough to own one.
The November auction will undoubtedly attract significant interest. This is due to the watch’s unique characteristics and the strong market demand for rare and vintage Rolex models like the Rainbow Daytona. For collectors, this auction represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of horological history. It is as much a work of art as it is a timekeeping instrument.
The Rolex ‘Rainbow’ Daytona’s upcoming auction will be closely watched by both industry insiders and collectors. It could potentially set a new benchmark for vintage Rolex sales.
For more information on the upcoming auction and the history of Rolex, you can visit Phillips Auction House
Lifestyle
Why Does Time in Dubai Feel Like It Goes So Fast?
Ask anyone who’s lived in or visited Dubai for a while, and you’ll hear a familiar line: “Time just flies here.” But why? Is there something in the sand-swept air, or is it more to do with our hyperactive schedules, mindsets, and environments? This isn’t just an abstract philosophical question—it’s rooted in neuroscience, psychology, lifestyle, and even culture. People often wonder why time in Dubai feels so fleeting. In this editorial deep dive, we explore why time seems to evaporate in Dubai faster than a bottle of water on Sheikh Zayed Road in July.
📍 The Dubai Effect: More Than Just a Feeling
Dubai is a city of motion. Towers rise overnight, events change weekly, restaurants flip menus monthly. In a place where innovation is a daily ritual and the skyline never sleeps, your environment is set to maximum stimulation. According to neuroscientist David Eagleman, our brain uses fewer memory markers when experiences are routine or over-familiar. In contrast, when the brain is bombarded with new, stimulating input, it processes time differently—especially in dynamic places like Dubai.
Translation? In the moment, Dubai can feel busy, chaotic, and hyper-present. But in hindsight, time seems to have vanished. Why? Because your brain didn’t save enough unique memory timestamps to stretch the experience.
🚀 Hyperstimulation & Urban Acceleration
Dubai is one of the most stimulating urban environments in the world. From sunrise yoga at Burj Park to business brunches at DIFC, then off to a networking mixer at The Arts Club—all in one day—it’s a non-stop sensory rollercoaster.
This level of activity has a psychological effect: the more your brain is engaged, the faster time appears to pass. Your cognitive bandwidth is spent absorbing, reacting, and adapting, leaving little room for stillness or reflection. The result? Time in Dubai feels condensed.
📱 Digital Overload in a Digitally Dominant City
Dubai is arguably one of the most digitally connected cities on earth. Smart city initiatives, cashless payments, AI-driven transport—everything moves fast, and so do we.
Notifications, deliveries, appointments, promotions—our attention is constantly pulled in multiple directions. Studies show that the more frequently we switch tasks or apps, the less we remember time passing. In short, in a city like Dubai, this digital overload makes time fly.
The more connected we are, the more disconnected we feel from time.
⏳ The Lifestyle Paradox: Maximum Experiences, Minimal Time
Dubai’s culture places high value on experiences: luxury, speed, status, and novelty. That means more socialising, more events, more “living life to the fullest”—and ironically, that’s what makes it all blur together.
Every brunch, gallery opening, car launch or VIP after-party contributes to a life of abundance, but abundance comes at a psychological cost: temporal compression. Indeed, the abundance of activities shortens perceived time in Dubai.
🌍 Expat Turnover and the ‘Always-On’ Mentality
With 90% of Dubai’s population being expat-based, there’s an unspoken urgency in how people live. Contracts are short. Opportunities are fast. Relationships shift quickly. Everyone’s trying to make the most of their time here.
This creates an environment of short-term intensity—where we overbook, overachieve, and overextend. And while that fuels career and social growth, it also makes time feel like it’s on fast-forward, especially during your time in Dubai.
🎢 Routine vs Novelty: A Psychological Balancing Act
Paradoxically, time feels slower when you’re bored and faster when you’re stimulated. But in hindsight, it flips. According to psychology professor Claudia Hammond, when we’re in highly repetitive environments, we remember time dragging. But when our memories are rich and varied (like a day out in Old Dubai or an overnight desert safari), we look back and think, “Where did the day go?”
Dubai offers little downtime. Even a ‘quiet night in’ can become a story worth posting. That constant novelty keeps us moving, but it also means time slips by with less conscious awareness, especially while spending time in Dubai.
🧘 Mindfulness vs Motion: Can We Slow It Down?
While we can’t slow the clock, we can change our perception of time. Experts suggest practising mindfulness, digital detoxing, and even engaging in manual tasks like journaling or walking—activities that bring us back to the present.
In Dubai, this can look like:
- Early morning beach meditation at Kite Beach
- A tech-free lunch at Arabian Tea House
- Slow art walks in Alserkal Avenue
These deliberate pauses help you store memories more deeply, making time feel fuller and more expansive during your Dubai experiences.
📅 Final Thought: It’s Not Just You
Time in Dubai does feel like it moves faster, but it’s not because you’re imagining it. It’s the result of an ultra-modern city designed for movement, momentum, and memory-blurring stimulation.
Want to feel like you’ve got more time? Take a breath, unplug for an hour, and let the city slow down around you—even if just for a moment.
Lifestyle
Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, and Other Luxury Watchmakers Respond to Tariffs with Price Increases
Luxury watch enthusiasts and collectors might soon find themselves digging deeper into their pockets as prominent brands such as Rolex, Omega, Cartier, and Breitling announce forthcoming price increases in response to recently imposed tariffs. With watchmakers responding to tariffs, the imposition of tariffs on Swiss imports into the United States has triggered a wave of adjustments within the luxury watch industry, affecting both pricing strategies and market dynamics significantly.
Background of the Tariffs
The scenario began unfolding when former President Donald Trump initially announced severe tariffs of up to 31% on Swiss products. Switzerland, renowned globally as the epicentre of luxury watchmaking, quickly found itself in a state of alarm. Dealers and retailers reacted urgently; some vintage dealers swiftly arranged emergency shipments to preemptively stockpile inventory, anticipating the impact these tariffs would have on the market. The industry breathed a collective sigh of relief when the administration introduced a 90-day postponement of the most extreme tariffs, but the remaining 10% levy has continued to exert considerable pressure on watchmakers and dealers alike.
Impact on Brands and Pricing
Rolex, arguably the most iconic name in luxury timepieces, was among the first to confirm price adjustments. Starting May 1, Rolex raised its prices by approximately 3%, a notable shift for collectors and prospective buyers alike. Following Rolex’s move, Omega soon disclosed plans to increase prices by an average of 5% across its collections. These adjustments set the stage for widespread market expectations of similar responses from other major watch manufacturers.
Sources within the industry strongly indicate that additional brands under Richemont and Swatch Group umbrellas, notably Cartier, are also preparing to adjust their retail prices. Breitling, an independent yet equally prestigious watchmaker, will also implement similar changes. Luxury conglomerate LVMH, home to esteemed brands like TAG Heuer and Bvlgari, is similarly expected to raise prices in line with industry trends, with projected increments ranging between 3% and 5%.
The tariffs have not only affected pricing but also narrowed the profit margins available to authorised dealers, who traditionally rely heavily on sales of these high-value items. Reduced margins might further disrupt the sales ecosystem, compelling dealers to rethink strategies for sustaining their businesses amidst increased operating costs.
Consumer Impact and Market Dynamics
While a 10% tariff increase might initially appear modest compared to the proposed 31%, the tangible impact on the luxury watch market remains significant. The price hikes brought about by the tariffs have already begun influencing consumer purchasing decisions, particularly among middle-tier collectors and buyers whose budgets are more sensitive to price fluctuations.
Joshua Ganjei, a notable figure at Boston’s European Watch Company, points out that these price hikes are reshaping how enthusiasts engage with the market. He highlights a growing shift toward the secondary market, where pre-owned luxury watches offer more appealing financial propositions compared to new retail purchases. As MSRP climbs, the allure of sourcing watches through alternative channels, such as pre-owned dealerships, intensifies.
The Secondary Market’s Opportunity as Watchmakers Respond to Tariffs
As prices for new watches rise, the secondary market stands poised to benefit substantially. Collectors seeking to avoid paying increased retail prices are likely to redirect their attention toward pre-owned watches, enhancing the already booming secondary market. This trend presents considerable opportunities for resellers and pre-owned luxury watch specialists who could see a spike in demand and increased sales volume.
Ganjei suggests that tariffs represent not merely a temporary policy shift but rather a fundamental transformation in how American collectors access luxury watches. The secondary market, therefore, is positioned to gain considerable traction, offering more economically accessible alternatives to luxury watch enthusiasts.
Reactions Among High-End Independent Brands
Interestingly, not all segments of the luxury watch industry express immediate concern over the tariffs. Brands such as H. Moser & Cie, which cater predominantly to high-end collectors less influenced by market volatility, remain relatively unperturbed. Edouard Meylan, CEO of H. Moser & Cie, conveyed confidence despite the unexpected tariff announcements. Meylan emphasised the importance of maintaining strong, long-term relationships with retail partners, stating that most orders placed ahead of these tariffs remain secure.
H. Moser & Cie proactively responded to the initial tariff announcement by swiftly shipping products to US retailers before the potential increase could take effect, demonstrating strategic agility. Such proactive measures reflect how adaptable independent brands can be in navigating unpredictable regulatory landscapes, particularly when supported by loyal, affluent clientele whose buying patterns are resilient to short-term fluctuations.
Broader Implications
The ripple effect of these tariffs reaches far beyond consumers’ wallets. The luxury watch industry, notably reliant on intricate global supply chains and sensitive to international policy shifts, faces potential challenges in maintaining steady operations and profitability. While major brands and high-end independents might weather the storm, smaller retailers and dealers may face disproportionate struggles due to shrinking margins and potentially declining sales.
Moreover, if the tariffs dampen overall demand, watch manufacturers could face slower inventory turnover and disrupted production schedules.
This scenario would not only impact manufacturers directly but also reverberate through the broader luxury goods market, affecting ancillary businesses and associated industries reliant on robust luxury goods sales.
Consumer Strategies Moving Forward
For consumers determined to purchase specific luxury watches despite higher prices, timing and market awareness become critical. Understanding market dynamics, tracking price adjustments, and considering strategic buying windows could mitigate some impacts of these price increases. Additionally, buyers may increasingly leverage relationships with trusted secondary market dealers, ensuring they obtain desired models at comparatively favourable prices.
Conclusion
The introduction of tariffs has undeniably shaken the luxury watch market, prompting brands like Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, and others to revise their pricing strategies upward. While immediate consumer responses vary widely depending on economic factors and personal purchasing power, the long-term implications could reshape luxury watch buying patterns profoundly.
Whether these tariffs remain a short-lived challenge or evolve into a prolonged reality, their initial impact is unmistakably significant. Collectors and buyers must now navigate a market where increased prices are the new norm, prompting a reevaluation of buying strategies and market interactions. This shift may permanently alter the landscape of luxury watch collecting, highlighting adaptability as the defining trait for brands, retailers, and consumers alike in navigating an uncertain future.
Lifestyle
UnheardOf x adidas Rivalry Lo “Grandma’s Couch 2”
In an era where sneaker collaborations often feel like carbon-copy marketing rollouts, the UnheardOf x adidas Rivalry Lo “Grandma’s Couch 2” breaks the mould — not just with bold design choices, but with a deeply personal narrative that resonates far beyond the sneaker community. Set to release on 10 May 2025, this limited-edition drop celebrates Mother’s Day with a tribute to love, legacy, and the power of remembrance.
Following the emotional success of the original “Grandma’s Couch” collection in 2023, UnheardOf founder Phil Lipschutz returns with a new green colourway of the Rivalry Lo, revealed via @sneakyleakpod, likely as a Friends & Family exclusive. But what truly sets this release apart is the poignant story that underpins it — a tribute to his late grandmother, Naomi Phillips, whose influence inspired a sneaker saga now in its second emotional chapter.
👟 From Couch Cushions to Collectors’ Shelves: How It All Began
The story starts in 2023 with what, on the surface, looked like a quirky drop — a sneaker inspired by grandma’s floral furniture. But it was more than kitsch. It was a tribute to the nostalgic textures and colours of childhood visits, warm conversations, and the embroidered tapestry sofas that shaped the interiors of so many family homes.
The first UnheardOf x adidas Rivalry Lo “Grandma’s Couch” drew attention not just for its vivid design, but for how personal it felt. Wrapped in floral upholstery patterns, encased in a custom shoebox resembling a mid-century sofa, and decorated with handwritten letters and vintage tags — it was clear that this was a sneaker from the heart.
💚 Enter 2025: The Green Colourway and the Emotional Sequel
Now, with Naomi Phillips having passed on, Lipschutz doubles down on personal storytelling. The 2025 edition, nicknamed “Grandma’s Couch 2”, unveils a new green-based colourway, adding a fresh visual identity to an already emotionally charged concept.
While the original used a pastel-heavy floral motif, this iteration leans into a subtle green palette accented with fuchsia pink and cream tones. The toe box and mid-foot panel are adorned with embroidered flowers, delicately woven beneath adidas’ iconic three stripes.
But it’s the details that make this sneaker more than merchandise:
- “Dear Naomi” is etched across the forefoot, immediately setting the tone.
- “Love Always and Forever” is embroidered on the heel tab, a touching signature to a legacy that lives on through laces and leather.
🎁 Packaging as Personal Archive: A Shoebox Like No Other
In a sneaker market obsessed with resale value, few drops have given as much care to packaging design as UnheardOf.
This time around, the shoebox is styled to mimic beauty products gifted to Naomi by her grandson — a heartfelt homage to the private love shared between generations. The exterior, however, takes it a step further with a watercolour painting done by Naomi’s husband. The result is not just a container but a keepsake — a shoebox that belongs in both art galleries and memory boxes.
🌸 The Narrative Design: How Storytelling Drives Hype Without Gimmicks
Phil Lipschutz understands the power of emotional storytelling in an age where authenticity is king. While other brands spend millions crafting viral campaigns, UnheardOf builds cult status by grounding its collaborations in real-life narratives.
This approach sets it apart:
- No celebrity cosigns
- No mass-market rollout
- No inflated pricing strategies
Instead, what drives interest is emotional resonance — something that most brands struggle to engineer.
📍 Release Info: When and Where to Get the Pink Colourway
While the green variant remains a Friends & Family exclusive, the pink colourway will release to the public on 10 May 2025, timed to coincide with Mother’s Day. Here’s what to know:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Colourway | Soft pink and cream with floral detailing |
| Release Date | 10 May 2025 |
| Price | $185 USD |
| Retailer | Exclusively via UnheardOf (in-store & online) |
Expect very limited quantities, and given the emotional backstory, demand is expected to outpace supply. If history is any indication, resale prices will skyrocket within days.
🧵 About UnheardOf: A Brand Rooted in Story and Community
For those unfamiliar, UnheardOf is not your average streetwear label. Based in Cincinnati, the brand has quietly built a reputation for community-first designs, blending humour, heritage and limited-edition style with remarkable clarity of vision.
Their previous adidas collaborations — including the aforementioned Grandma’s Couch — sold out instantly, not due to influencer hype but through word-of-mouth, loyalty, and emotional gravity.
Phil Lipschutz, the brand’s founder, has often stated that his goal is to create products that tell stories — stories that start on the feet but live on in hearts and memories.
🎨 Behind the Design: Material Matters
The Rivalry Lo “Grandma’s Couch 2” is not just visually stunning — it’s built with care:
- Textile overlays mimic upholstery fabric without compromising durability.
- Fuchsia stitching contrasts beautifully against the pastel base, evoking springtime nostalgia.
- A soft-touch insole features floral patterns and a printed note styled like a letter.
No material feels mass-produced; each texture and stitch speaks to intention, legacy, and emotion.
📈 Market Buzz: Early Hype, Sneaker Culture Reactions, and Collectibility
Initial leaks via @sneakyleakpod have already caused a stir across Reddit, Twitter, and sneaker forums. While the Friends & Family green edition won’t release publicly, its reveal has amplified anticipation for the general drop.
Some quotes from community members:
“This isn’t just a shoe — it’s therapy in a box.” – u/fadedsummer
“This is how you do a tribute right. Subtle, honest, beautiful.” – @crepecurator
“I’m crying. Grandma would’ve LOVED these.” – TikTok user @emmysoles
🔎 Sneaker Stats: What You Need to Know
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | adidas Rivalry Lo |
| Collaboration Partner | UnheardOf |
| Inspiration | Naomi Phillips (Phil’s grandmother) |
| Colours Available | Green (F&F), Pink (Public) |
| Materials | Floral textiles, premium suede |
| Price | $185 |
| Release Platform | UnheardOf online & in-store |
| Box Artwork | Watercolour by Naomi’s husband |
🧠 Why This Sneaker Matters in 2025
In a year already packed with collabs from giants like Travis Scott, Salehe Bembury, and Nike’s NFT experiments, this release proves that intimacy and story can outperform hype.
Where others are creating spectacle, UnheardOf is creating soulful connections — and in doing so, preserving memories in every stitch.
This is not just a Mother’s Day sneaker. It’s a multigenerational art project, one that uses footwear to tell a story of love, memory, and design.
🧵 Final Thoughts
The UnheardOf x adidas Rivalry Lo “Grandma’s Couch 2” isn’t chasing trends — it’s cementing itself as a cultural artefact. A love letter hidden in a shoebox. A tribute that will live on in the stories we tell, and the soles we wear.
For those lucky enough to cop a pair this May, know that you’re wearing more than a sneaker. You’re carrying legacy.
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