The Daytona, an iconic Rolex model, has undergone a model change in 2023. The biggest change is the evolution of the movement. The masterpiece Caliber 4130 has been slightly improved to become the Caliber 4131. The exterior has also been improved to bring it into a more modern style. It is likely characterized by shorter lugs and a bezel that appears thinner at first glance.
Text by Masayuki Hirota (Chronos-Japan)
Daytona's new Cal. 4131 with a see-through caseback
Since its release in 1963, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona has been hailed as a masterpiece. Perhaps to commemorate its 60th anniversary, this model has been redesigned. While the changes are minimal, they reflect the current Rolex philosophy.
The biggest news is the improvement of the masterpiece Cal. 4130. The movement, which was originally thought to have no room for improvement, now features a gold rotor in some models. In addition, the number of bearings supporting the rotor has been significantly increased, not just for aesthetic reasons, but also to improve winding efficiency.
At first glance, the new Daytona looks similar, but it's actually quite different. The photo shows a model with a platinum case and ice blue dial. Rolex hasn't made it public, but the dial is likely PVD-finished. This model is also the first professional model to feature a transparent case back. Automatic (Cal. 4131). 44 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Pt (diameter 40mm, thickness 11.90mm) 100m water resistant.
From what I can see, they are not ceramic bearings as used by other companies, but rather Rolex has chosen to use standard bearings to increase efficiency.
The reason for this is unclear, but perhaps it was to avoid the noise that comes with ceramic bearings. The clearance between the rotor and the case back is so tight that it's hard to believe it's a Rolex, meaning that thinness isn't sacrificed.
The Caliber 4131 has another difference: a new Côtes de Genève pattern with a slight line between each wave, which Rolex says it has patented.
Rolex, which has always seemed to be unconcerned with appearance, has clearly changed. In fact, the new platinum version is the first professional model to feature a transparent case back.
