What types of Rolex Cosmograph Daytona are there?

Introducing the popular Rolex collection, the Cosmograph Daytona. Discover the charm of the Daytona, which comes in a wide variety of case materials, dials, bracelets, and more.

What is the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona?

　Among the many fascinating Rolex collections, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona is particularly popular. Its roots lie in the manual-winding chronograph with a tachymeter scale on the bezel, which was launched in 1963. The name Daytona was given to the watch when Rolex became the official timekeeper of the Daytona International Speedway. With functionality and robustness that could withstand the rigors of motorsports, the watch has been loved by many drivers and has inspired the admiration of watch enthusiasts.

　True to Rolex's pursuit of practicality, the Daytona has steadily evolved since its launch. By replacing the classic pump-type pushers with screw-down mechanisms, it achieved high water resistance. In 1988, Rolex introduced an automatic movement based on the Zenith El Primero, and in 2000, it successfully installed an in-house chronograph movement, continuing to work tirelessly to improve the watch's specifications.

　Now, in 2023, the 60th anniversary of its birth, a new Daytona will be released, following the basic design codes of its predecessor but with a complete update from the exterior to the movement. It shows a mature appearance, typical of Rolex, which is often said to be "the latest is the best."

Types of Cosmograph Daytona

　Let's take a look at the different types of Daytona watches, focusing on the current model that was redesigned in 2023. There are many variations of Daytona watches, from case materials to dial designs and bracelet specifications. While they all share the same base as a sporty chronograph with three subdials, the wide lineup, each with its own unique character, is one of the charms of the Daytona.

SS model

　This model features a case made of corrosion-resistant 904L steel. The black or white dial is accented with "DAYTONA" in red. The subdials, which feature a color that is the opposite of the dial, give the dial a three-dimensional look. The black Cerachrom bezel, which completes the overall look, is engraved with a tachymeter scale, a testament to its origins as a racing chronograph. The pushers are equipped with screw locks, ensuring high water resistance and preventing accidental operation.

　The movement is the in-house automatic chronograph movement, Cal. 4131. Equipped with a blue Parachrom hairspring for excellent magnetic resistance and a Paraflex shock absorber for increased shock resistance, it boasts high accuracy of -2 to +2 seconds per day.

Rolesor models

　Rolesor combines durability and luxury. 18K gold is used for the bezel, crown, and pushers. The dial is available in black, gold, white, and bright black. The bright black dial is set with diamond indexes.

　The black dial featured here features a gold-colored ring on the inner dial, creating a color scheme that harmonizes with the case. The Oyster mark at 12 o'clock, bullet-shaped indexes, and hands are all made of 18K gold, just like other Rolex models.

　The bracelet is a three-link Oyster bracelet with an 18K gold central link, a double-lock buckle to prevent accidental disconnection, and an Easylink that allows for fine adjustment of approximately 5mm.

18KYG model

　This elegant model features an 18K yellow gold case. The black Cerachrom bezel features a tachymeter scale coated with a thin layer of platinum, achieved through PVD processing. The model shown here is a turquoise-blue lacquered model released in 2025. Three snailed black subdials add depth to the dial.

　The strap is an Oysterflex bracelet with a metal blade coated with elastomer, providing a flexible fit. The double-lock buckle is equipped with a Glidelock extension system that allows for fine adjustments.

　In addition to the Ref. 126518LN with an Oysterflex bracelet, there is also the Ref. 126508 with an 18K yellow gold Oyster bracelet. There is also a lineup to meet the needs of those looking for something more glamorous, such as models with diamonds set in the bezel and indexes.

18K Everose gold model

　18K Everose gold is a gold alloy developed exclusively by Rolex in 2005. The Ref. 126505 uses 18K Everose gold for the entire case and bracelet. Its soft color, which is resistant to tarnishing, gives it a different elegance than 18K yellow gold.

　The model featured here combines a chocolate dial with a black inner dial, creating a unified design with a dial color that matches the case.

　In addition to this model, there are also models with bright black dials, meteorite dials, and diamond-set bezels, lugs, and indexes. The model with a Cerachrom bezel and an Oysterflex bracelet is listed as the reference 126515LN.

18KWG model

　The Ref. 126589RBR is housed in an 18K white gold case. The bezel is set with 36 sparkling diamonds, and the indexes are set with eight, creating a noble and elegant look. The iridescent dial is crafted from mother-of-pearl, and the overall white dial with a black inset dial adds a striking contrast.

　There are also many variations of the 18K white gold model. While models with a black Cerachrom bezel may look like stainless steel models at first glance, they can be differentiated by their Oysterflex bracelet or unique dial. The Oyster bracelet model is the reference 126509. The two bracelets are not interchangeable.

Platinum Model

　This model is crafted in platinum, which Rolex calls "the noblest metal." The refreshing ice blue that colors the dial is a special color that Rolex only uses on its platinum-case models. The chestnut brown used for the inner dial ring and Cerachrom bezel gives the watch a light, airy appearance.

　It's also important to note that only the platinum case model of the Daytona is equipped with a see-through case back, allowing you to fully appreciate every detail of the Caliber 4131 inside, including the rotor, lever movement, and the striped bridges.

　The lineup also includes a variation with baguette-cut diamonds set in the indexes, which is a good choice for those who prefer a more glamorous model.