Description

The Daytona story began like a love story with racecar drivers, one of the most successful drivers used to wear Rolex watches was Sir Malcom Campbell who set many speed records in Europe and in a Florida city called Daytona Beach, he attracted the attention of Rolex and became their ambassador.

In 1955 version, the Reference 6234, was labeled the “Rolex Chronograph” a pre-Daytona model.
The birth, in 1963 the Rolex Chronograph reference 6239 with a tachometer scale engrave on the bezel to enhance readability of the dial was released, incredibly the initial name Rolex used was “Le Mans”, another famous racetrack based in France.  It’s only by 1965 that the *Daytona* name started to be printed on the dial of the 6239.

Surprisingly the Daytona wasn’t a success back then, despite celebrities like Paul Newman endorsing it.

Eventually the model became popular and a more modern version was released in 1988 using an automatic Zenith “El Primero” modified movement, the reference 16520 (steel), reference 16523 (in steel and gold) and reference 16528 (in yellow gold).  Main difference was the case size of 40mm, 3mm bigger than its predecessor and the adoption of a sapphire crystal to replace the Plexiglas.  The limited supply helped the watch achieve a cult status.

By 2000, Rolex started to use an in-house movement on the new 116500 series, it remained the most sought after model.
In 2013 the Daytona Cosmograph Platinum (reference 116506) created by Rolex to commemorate fifty years from the launch of its most celebrated watch.

And finally in 2016 the steel Daytona was refreshed with a new black ceramic bezel the 116500LN series.
With each release, the Daytona reinforces its status of cult sport watch, certainly the most desired sports watch in the world.

The Rolex 116508-0011 is a truly exceptional timepiece that showcases the brand’s unparalleled commitment to craftsmanship, precision, and luxury. This particular model, part of the iconic Cosmograph Daytona collection, combines Rolex’s legendary watchmaking expertise with the timeless allure of a mother of pearl dial, creating a remarkable and highly sought-after piece for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.

At the heart of this exquisite watch is a 40mm 18k yellow gold case, which exudes sophistication and elegance. The case is adorned with a fixed yellow gold bezel featuring a tachymeter scale, which not only adds to the watch’s sporty character but also enhances its functionality. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for various activities and daily wear.

The true star of the Rolex 116508-0011 is its breathtaking mother of pearl dial, which captures and reflects light in a myriad of iridescent hues. Each mother of pearl dial is unique, as it is made from a natural material, adding to the watch’s exclusivity and individuality. The dial features 18k yellow gold applied hour markers, complete with Chromalight inserts for optimal legibility in low light conditions. Yellow gold hands and a central chronograph hand further enhance the dial’s luxurious appeal.

In addition to the stunning dial, the Rolex 116508-0011 boasts three sub-dials: a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock, and a small seconds display at 6 o’clock. These sub-dials, along with the tachymeter bezel, make the watch a highly functional and practical chronograph for various timing needs.

Powering this magnificent timepiece is the Rolex in-house caliber 4130, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement known for its precision, reliability, and robustness. The movement features a Parachrom hairspring, which ensures resistance to shocks and temperature variations, and boasts a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.

The Rolex 116508-0011 is completed with a comfortable and secure 18k yellow gold Oyster bracelet, which features a folding Oysterlock safety clasp with an Easylink 5mm comfort extension link for added convenience.

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”.