Drake's Historic Rolex GMT-Master II from 'Take Care' Album Cover Now Available for $500,000

A remarkable Rolex GMT-Master II, which graced the wrist of the acclaimed artist Drake on the cover of his iconic 2011 album, 'Take Care,' is currently available for purchase at a staggering price of $500,000. This particular timepiece, known as the Ref. 116758SANR, stands out not only for its celebrity provenance but also for its intrinsic rarity and exquisite craftsmanship. Crafted from 18-karat gold and adorned with a bezel featuring baguette-cut diamonds and black sapphires, this watch represents a fusion of horological artistry and pop culture history. Its sale offers a unique opportunity for collectors and fans to own a piece of both luxury watchmaking and music heritage.

Drake's affinity for luxurious timepieces is well-documented, with his collection boasting several notable Rolex models. However, the GMT-Master II from the 'Take Care' era holds a special place, marking his ascent to global stardom. Released in 2011, 'Take Care' became a monumental success, selling over 10 million copies and earning Drake a Grammy Award. The watch was prominently featured in the album's artwork, captured by photographers Hyghly Alleyne and Lamar Taylor, and also made an appearance in the music video for "Marvin's Room," further cementing its iconic status.

The Ref. 116758SANR GMT-Master II was first introduced in 2006, part of an exclusive series of gem-set Rolex watches. These models were celebrated for their opulent take on the classic 1980s design. The exact production numbers for this reference remain undisclosed by Rolex, highlighting its extreme scarcity. The intricate process of hand-setting each diamond by master jewelers contributed to a lengthy and demanding production cycle, making these watches exceptionally rare. This meticulous attention to detail and limited availability make the 'Take Care' Rolex a highly sought-after item among horology enthusiasts.

Discontinued around 2012, this specific reference is considered even rarer than other coveted Rolex models like the Daytona “Rainbow” and GMT-Master II “Saru.” While pre-owned examples of the Ref. 116758SANR typically trade for around $100,000 on secondary markets, the unique connection to Drake elevates this particular piece's value significantly. The watch's 40mm case and Oyster bracelet, both crafted from 18-karat gold, provide a luxurious backdrop to its striking black dial and gem-encrusted bezel, which features 36 baguette-cut diamonds and 12 black sapphires. The sapphires, including a distinctive triangular one, not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also serve a functional purpose in calculating a third time zone.

Adding to its distinctiveness, the watch features diamond-decorated lugs and crown guards, culminating in a truly bespoke appearance. The caseback is uniquely engraved with the logo of Drake’s lifestyle brand and record label, October’s Very Own (OVO), making it a true collector's item. The watch's original owner, a former colleague of Drake during the early days of his career, purchased it in 2011. It exhibits minimal wear on the clasp, and the case remains in its original, unpolished condition. Although the service history is unknown, the watch is reported to be in excellent working order and comes complete with its original box and papers. For fans of Drake and luxury watch connoisseurs, this sale represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of history, complete with accompanying OVO memorabilia, including the iconic OWL statue from the album cover, clothing, and backstage passes.

This offering underscores the enduring appeal of celebrity-owned luxury items, especially when they are intertwined with significant cultural moments. The combination of exceptional craftsmanship, historical rarity, and an undeniable link to one of music's biggest stars makes this Rolex GMT-Master II more than just a timepiece; it is a tangible piece of Drake's legacy, ready to find its next esteemed owner.