Description

The present reference is the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Rainbow” ref. 126598RBOW, an extraordinary gem-set creation crafted in 18k yellow gold and one of the most celebrated modern high-jewelry sports watches produced by the manufacture.

Housed in a 40 mm case of 18k yellow gold, the watch features lugs and crown guards set with brilliant-cut diamonds. The defining highlight is its dazzling bezel, adorned with 36 baguette-cut sapphires meticulously selected and arranged in a seamless chromatic gradient reflecting the full spectrum of the rainbow. The screw-down winding crown and pushers ensure robust water resistance while maintaining the classic Oyster architecture.

The black lacquer dial is set with 11 baguette-cut sapphire hour markers that mirror the hue of the adjacent bezel gems. Adding depth and organic texture, the three chronograph sub-dials are crafted from gold crystals, an exclusive metallurgical finish that shimmers and reflects light with an almost crystalline play. Gold hands sweep across the dial, ensuring legibility remains balanced with the piece’s gemological brilliance.

Powering the watch is the in-house automatic Calibre 4130, an integrated chronograph movement featuring a column-wheel and vertical-clutch mechanism for instantaneous and precise actuation. Fitted with a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, the movement provides a reliable 72-hour power reserve.

Fitted to a solid 18k yellow gold Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock safety clasp, the Daytona Rainbow ref. 116598RBOW represents the pinnacle of Rolex’s gem-setting artistry, commanding enduring reverence among elite collectors worldwide.

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”.