Description

The present watch is the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Rainbow” reference 116595RBOW, one of the most visually arresting and technically demanding timepieces in the manufacture’s contemporary catalogue. By uniting the legendary performance of the Daytona with the highest levels of gem-setting artistry, Rolex has created a watch that is both a sophisticated chronometric instrument and a masterpiece of high jewelry.

Crafted in 18k Everose gold, the 40 mm case serves as a warm, luxurious canvas for an extraordinary array of precious stones. The bezel is the defining feature of this reference, set with 36 baguette-cut sapphires in a seamless rainbow gradient. Each stone is meticulously selected by Rolex’s master gem-setters to ensure a flawless transition through the visible spectrum—a process requiring immense patience and an uncompromising eye for color, saturation, and clarity. To further elevate its brilliance, the lugs and crown guards are set with brilliant-cut diamonds, highlighting the iconic architecture of the Oyster case.

The black dial provides a dramatic, high-contrast backdrop that allows the colors of the bezel to radiate. It features Gold Crystals chronograph sub-dials—a proprietary finish that creates a textured, shimmering effect reminiscent of natural gold ore—alongside baguette-cut sapphire hour markers that mirror the rainbow gradient of the bezel. This cohesive use of color and texture results in a dial that is as legible as it is spectacular.

Beneath the precious exterior beats the Calibre 4130, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. A certified Superlative Chronometer, the movement incorporates a column wheel and vertical clutch for instantaneous and precise chronograph engagement. It is equipped with a Parachrom hairspring, offering superior resistance to shocks and temperature variations, and provides a robust 72-hour power reserve.

The watch is presented on an Everose gold Oyster bracelet, featuring polished center links and the patented Oysterlock safety clasp with the Easylink comfort extension system.

The Daytona Rainbow 116595RBOW is a watch of immense rarity and presence. Produced in extremely limited quantities due to the difficulty of sourcing perfectly matched gemstones, it represents the pinnacle of Rolex’s “off-catalogue” creations. For the discerning collector, it stands as a definitive statement of luxury, blending the heritage of motorsport with the pinnacle of gem-set elegance.

Rolex – bio

Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London, initially as Wilsdorf & Davis Ltd. Renamed Rolex by 1908 and moved its base of operations to Geneva, Switzerland in 1919.  Their success is due to their innovation namely the legendary “Oyster” case – first water resistant watch and their extremely reliable movements.
The most famous models are Datejust, Day-Date, Daytona, Explorer, GMT-Master, Submariner and many more.
The company is owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, a family private trust.
One story, never confirmed by Wilsdorf, recounts that the name came from the French words “horlogerie exquise”‘è, meaning “exquisite clockwork”.