Rolex Oyster Perpetual Superlative Chronometer officially certified cosmograph with diamonds

Once again Rolex introduces revolutionary changes not only in the way watchmaking is carried out, but also in the way that it is conceived. The company truly invents a new market segment, years ahead of the competition, which is destined to grow rapidly in the 1990s and reach its peak in the new millennium.

Previously, bejeweled chronographs are not part of the standard collections of most watchmaking companies. However, they are made-to-order pieces that are mostly crafted by external jewelers who mount the gems on normal production models. This all changes with reference 6269 and reference 6270. Even if produced in very small numbers, they are nevertheless genuine parts of the Rolex standard production and feature in their catalogues alongside other Daytonas. It seems a subtle detail, but this is a momentous shift in the marketing strategy of the watchmaking industry.

Subsequently, the automatic Daytona has been produced in different jewelled variations. While they are no longer the forerunners of the 1970s, they nevertheless maintain high collectible appeal, both because of their rarity and their mesmerizing beauty.

In 1997 a new model is introduced, reference 16519, the first Daytona in white gold with a crocodile strap. There are many variations of dial available, and the case can be enriched with precious stones.

Further evolution of this model is reference 16589, the first white gold chronograph graced by an enchanting bezel with baguette cut diamond.

The case of these models has the same dimensions of that of steel Daytonas, but the lugs are modified so that they can incorporate a leather strap.

This reference 16589 is not only an extremely rare piece to be found on the market, but it also shows this alternative case construction. The juxtaposition of the bright white case and shiny diamond bezel with the pitch-black dial is nothing less than spectacular.

Professional watches

Cosmograph DaytonaOyster, 40 mm, yellow gold

Configure

This Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona in 18 ct yellow gold, with a black, diamond-set dial and an Oyster bracelet, features an 18 ct yellow gold bezel with engraved tachymetric scale.

This chronograph was designed to be the ultimate timing tool for endurance racing drivers. More than 50 years after its creation, the Cosmograph Daytona remains in a class of its own among sport chronographs and continues to transcend time.

Black dial

With chronograph counters

This model features a black, diamond-set dial with snailed counters, 18 ct gold applique hour markers and hands with a Chromalight display, a highly-legible luminescent material.

The central sweep seconds hand allows an accurate reading of 1/8 second, while the two counters on the dial display the lapsed time in hours and minutes. Drivers can accurately map out their track times and tactics without fail.

More Cosmograph DaytonaTechnical Details

• Reference 116508

  • Model Case

    Model Case Oyster, 40 mm, yellow gold Oyster Architecture Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown Diameter 40 mm Material 18 ct yellow gold Bezel Fixed, with engraved tachymetric scale, in 18 ct yellow gold Winding Crown Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system Crystal Scratch-resistant sapphire Water Resistance Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet

  • Movement

    Movement Perpetual, mechanical chronograph, self-winding Calibre 4130, Manufacture Rolex Precision -2/+2 sec/day, after casing Functions Centre hour, minute and seconds hands, small seconds hand at 6 o'clock. Chronograph (centre hand) accurate to within 1/8 of a second, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 9 o'clock. Stop seconds for precise time setting Oscillator Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring Winding Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor Power reserve Approximately 72 hours

  • Bracelet

    Bracelet Oyster, flat three-piece links Bracelet Material 18 ct yellow gold Clasp Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link

  • Dial

    Dial Black set with diamonds Gem setting Diamonds in 18 ct gold settings Details Dial with snailed small counters

  • Certification

    Certification Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)

How to Set your Cosmograph Daytona

Synonymous with excellence and reliability, Rolex watches are designed for everyday wear, and depending on the model, perfectly suited for a wide range of sports and other activities. Built to last, these timepieces are characterized by their distinctive and timeless aesthetics. The Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona is designed for those with a passion for driving and speed. Learn more about its features and how to set the time and use the chronograph functions by watching the video.

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