Rolex is unveiling a precious, mysterious and sparkling 18 ct yellow gold version of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, the iconic watch for those with a passion for driving and speed.
Like the 18 ct Everose gold version released in 2018, whose bezel is adorned with sapphires in rainbow colours, this new version offers a unique take on the celebrated racing chronograph. The emblematic tachymetric scale is replaced with 36 trapeze-cut diamonds. On the paved black lacquer dial, champagne-colour chronograph counters are intertwined with black lacquer and diamonds. Completing the dial with elegance are hour markers in the form of eight diamonds in 18 ct yellow gold settings, and Arabic numerals 15, 30 and 45, also in 18 ct yellow gold, set at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock respectively.
A paragon of robustness and reliability, the Oyster case of the Cosmograph Daytona is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). The middle case is crafted from a solid piece of 18 ct yellow gold. The case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The winding crown, fitted with the Triplock triple waterproofness system and protected by an integral crown guard, screws down securely against the case, along with the chronograph pushers. The crystal is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimum protection for the Cosmograph Daytona’s high-precision movement.
The new version of the Cosmograph Daytona is equipped with calibre 4130, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement developed and manufactured by Rolex. The chronograph function has a reduced number of components, thereby enhancing the movement’s reliability. It is engaged by a robust mechanism with a column wheel and vertical clutch, allowing an instantaneous and extremely precise start.
Within this consummate demonstration of technology lies a blue Parachrom hairspring, manufactured by Rolex in an exclusive paramagnetic alloy that makes it up to 10 times more precise than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. The blue Parachrom hairspring is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring its regularity in any position.
Calibre 4130 is equipped with a self-winding module via a Perpetual rotor and offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.
This version of the Cosmograph Daytona is fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet, which singularly combines the robustness and reliability of a metal bracelet with the flexibility, comfort and aesthetics of an elastomer strap. Developed and patented by Rolex, this innovative bracelet is made up of flexible metal blades manufactured from a titanium and nickel alloy. The blades are overmoulded with black high-performance elastomer, a material that is particularly resistant to environmental effects and very durable. For enhanced comfort, the inside of the Oysterflex bracelet is equipped with longitudinal cushions that stabilize the watch on the wrist.
The Oysterflex bracelet on this new version is equipped with a Rolex-designed and -patented Oysterlock folding safety clasp in 18 ct yellow gold, which prevents accidental opening. It also features the Easylink comfort extension link, developed by the brand, which allows the bracelet length to be increased by approximately 5 mm.
Like all Rolex watches, each Cosmograph Daytona is certified as a Superlative Chronometer. This exclusive designation attests that it has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories and according to its own criteria, which exceed watchmaking norms and standards. These tests are carried out on the fully assembled watch, in order to guarantee its superlative performance on the wrist.