The Cosmograph Daytona was born in 1963, designed for professional drivers and car racing, an industry to which Rolex has always had a strong connection. The name Daytona comes from the famous Daytona Beach racetrack in Florida, where Rolex was the official timekeeper. In its early years, the model had limited circulation, but its fortunes changed radically when it was associated with the actor Paul Newman, whose personal Daytona has become one of the most iconic and expensive watches ever sold at auction.
Among the collection's special features, it should be remembered that the Daytona has long been one of the few Rolex models equipped with a non-manufacturer movement: only in 2000, with the calibre 4130, did Rolex introduce a completely in-house chronograph movement, simplified and optimised compared to its predecessors.
With the reference 116500LN, Rolex combined the elegance of steel with the technical aesthetics of the ceramic bezel, while maintaining the structure of the case and the sporty identity of the model. This balance between innovation and respect for tradition has further strengthened the cult of the Daytona, making it today one of the most sought-after and appreciated watches of all, both by collectors and by those seeking a high-end, recognizable and timeless chronograph.
The Rolex Daytona ref. 116500LN is one of the most coveted and recognizable sports chronographs in contemporary production. Introduced in 2016, it marked a fundamental evolution for the collection, thanks to the introduction of the Cerachrom ceramic bezel, while maintaining the classic and balanced look that has made the Daytona an icon of watchmaking.
The 40 mm Oyster case is crafted from 904L Oystersteel, with a Triplock crown and screw-down pushers, ensuring water resistance to 100 metres. The monobloc black Cerachrom bezel is laser-engraved with a tachymeter scale graduated to 400 units, making it particularly resistant to scratches and discolouration. The dial is available in two variations: white with black counters (known as “Panda”) or black with silver counters. The applied indexes and hands are filled with long-lasting Chromalight luminescent material.
Inside, it is equipped with Rolex calibre 4130, a self-winding chronograph movement in-house, renowned for its mechanical efficiency, reliability and a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. It features a column wheel and vertical clutch for smooth and precise start of the chronograph function. The steel Oyster bracelet is combined with an Oysterlock clasp with the Easylink system for rapid micro-adjustments.
The 116500LN is considered one of the most desirable models in the entire recent Rolex production. The combination of a steel case and ceramic bezel, combined with the sporty and racing heritage of the Daytona, has made this reference an object of constant desire, with long waiting lists and a strong value on the secondary market.
