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 Daytona Orange Sapphire 116578SACO is a brilliant fusion of horological artistry and gem-setting expertise, a testament to Rolex’s commitment to both precision and luxury. This extraordinary timepiece exemplifies Rolex’s creative approach to design and material use, with an emphasis on vibrant aesthetics and high performance.

The 116578SACO is a part of Rolex’s iconic Daytona series, known for their association with the world of motor racing. The watch’s 40mm case is crafted from 18ct yellow gold, exuding an aura of elegance and sophistication. The yellow gold is not just a symbol of luxury, but also demonstrates Rolex’s ability to work with various materials, as they cast their own gold in-house.

The true spectacle of this timepiece, however, lies in the stunning bezel adorned with 36 baguette-cut orange sapphires. This captivating halo of gemstones adds an unprecedented level of vibrancy to the Daytona, making it a true statement piece. The sapphires are carefully selected and set by Rolex’s in-house gem-setters, ensuring the highest quality and aesthetic harmony.

The centerpiece of this watch is the exquisite mother-of-pearl dial, a natural material unique to each timepiece, offering a beautiful array of iridescent hues. This mesmerizing dial features diamond-set hour markers, further enhancing the luxurious appeal of the watch. It is equipped with three sub-dials, a nod to the Daytona’s racing heritage, offering 30-minute, 12-hour, and small second functions.

Powering the Daytona Orange Sapphire is the self-winding caliber 4130, a chronograph movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. Known for its high precision, reliability, and efficient use of power, the movement also features a Parachrom hairspring, offering resistance against shocks and temperature variations.

The watch is complemented with an 18ct yellow gold Oyster bracelet, ensuring a comfortable fit and continuity in design. The bracelet is equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp, preventing any accidental opening.

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”.