An icon defying time
The emblematic style and technical performance of the Cosmograph Daytona have cemented its iconic status well beyond the motor racing circuits. To mark the 60th anniversary of the watch, Rolex ensures the legend lives on by revisiting the entire range.
Rolex is presenting its new-generation Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, which has been updated across the entire range. The singular design of the case and face has characterized the chronograph since its launch, and has now been revisited with subtle refinements to a number of details. The dial receives new graphic balance, and harmonious colour combinations accentuate the contrast between the dial and the counters – or their rings.
The Oyster case has been redesigned, and its profile is highlighted by the light reflections on the lugs and case sides. On versions with a Cerachrom bezel, the bezel is edged with a thin band of the same metal as the middle case.
From this year, the Cosmograph Daytona is equipped with calibre 4131. This new chronograph movement, an evolution of calibre 4130, incorporates a number of the major innovations that Rolex has brought to its movements, including the Chronergy escapement. Particular attention has been paid to aesthetics. The calibre features a cut-out oscillating weight and completely new finishes – notably on the bridges, which are embellished with Rolex C.tes de Gen.ve, the brand’s reinterpretation of a well-known decoration in watchmaking. Calibre 4131 enables the Cosmograph Daytona to measure intervals of time via the chronograph function, in addition to displaying the hours, minutes and seconds. A prestigious and iconic watch, the Cosmograph Daytona in 950 platinum now features a transparent case back as well as an oscillating weight made of 18 ct yellow gold.
Like all Rolex watches, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist.
Synonymous with speed
Launched in 1963, the Cosmograph Daytona was designed to meet the needs of professional racing drivers. Fitted with a tachymetric bezel and a high-performance mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex, this now legendary chronograph is the instrument of choice for measuring time intervals and determining average speeds. Through its name and functions, the Cosmograph Daytona is forever linked to the world of motor sport and, 60 years after its launch, continues to boast unparalleled status among sport chronographs.
High-technology ceramic
Rolex played a pioneering role in the development of special ceramics for creating monobloc bezels and bezel inserts. Not only are these materials virtually scratchproof, their colours are also of a rare intensity and are resistant to environmental effects. In addition, thanks to its chemical composition, the high-tech ceramic is inert and cannot corrode. Rolex has developed exclusive expertise and innovative manufacturing methods that grant it complete independence in the production of these ceramic components. Among the versions of the new-generation Cosmograph Daytona presented, the one fashioned in 950 platinum, recognizable by its ice blue dial, is equipped with a monobloc Cerachrom bezel in chestnut brown ceramic. On the variant in Oystersteel with a white lacquer dial, and the watch in 18 ct yellow gold with a golden dial and bright black counters, the Cerachrom bezel is in black ceramic. The recessed graduations, numerals and inscriptions on the tachymetric scale are moulded then coated with a thin layer of platinum or yellow gold via a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) process.
The Oyster case, symbol of waterproofness
A paragon of robustness and reliability, the 40 mm Oyster case of the new-generation Cosmograph Daytona is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). The middle case of the versions presented is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel, 18 ct yellow or Everose gold, or 950 platinum. Its case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The Triplock winding crown, fitted with a triple waterproofness system and protected by an integral crown guard, screws down securely against the case, along with the chronograph pushers. The crystal is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from an antireflective coating. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimal protection for the movement it houses. On the Cosmograph Daytona in 950 platinum, the case now features a transparent case back in sapphire with an anti-reflective coating, offering the opportunity to admire the decorations on the movement and the pivoting of the oscillating weight.