Rolex has unveiled two illuminating new variations of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona crafted from 18-carat white gold and loaded with brilliant cut diamonds. Luxurious to the point of being ostentatious, the new chronographs certainly aren’t for everyone and with a pricetag nudging AUD$100,000, it’s a fact Rolex would be acutely aware of. Subtle; they are not, but it must be said, the latest Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytonas are unashamedly eye-catching.
A model that has largely been overlooked in the Rolex lineup (save for a few special editions in recent years), the Cosmograph Daytona does deserve its dues. The range is routinely lauded for its hard-working chronograph movement and the dial layout has long been a favourite amongst collectors. For the 2024 editions, Rolex has reinterpreted the design language for a new era, offering timepieces that take luxury to the very extreme.
Both new releases feature a contrasting dial made from natural mother-of-pearl, with a dualling colourway separating the two. The first iteration is identified by its white mother-of-pearl dial contrasted by chronograph counters in black mother-of-pearl, and on the second, the colour combination is reversed.
While the latest variations may well focus on aesthetics predominantly, Rolex has wisely chosen not to neglect the inner workings. The Cosmograph Daytona is equipped with calibre 4131, a delicate movement that features bridges decorated with Rolex Côtes de Genève and a cut-out oscillating weight. Importantly, as it is a chronograph timepiece, calibre 4131 is engaged by a mechanism with a column wheel and vertical clutch, a design that ultimately ensures a precise start. Similar to the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II that was also revealed this year, the Cosmograph Daytona also incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement, boasting a power reserve of around 72 hours.
For fans of Rolex, it’s no secret that the Cosmograph Daytona earned its stripes on the racetrack, originally constructed in 1963 to meet the needs of professional racing drivers. The introduction of calibre 4131 continues this long legacy of sports-orientated timing, albeit in a far more glamorous package. And that’s where things get interesting.
In a sense, the new release is a little confusing. On one hand, you have a sparkling diamond-set timepiece that demands attention and celebrates opulence, while on the other, you have a hard-faring timepiece with undeniably strong ties to motor racing. While you could argue Rolex is going for the best of both worlds, it does feel like a case of everything all at once. The Rolex fans that are taken by precision timing aren’t regularly dazzled by precious gems and those with an eye for high jewellery don’t always often get swayed by movements and complications.
Nevertheless, the watch industry has been screaming for a new Daytona and Rolex, never one to disappoint, has delivered. The new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona is available in two variations, both priced at 58,800 CHF (roughly AUD$98,000).
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona
- Brand: Rolex
- Model: Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona
- Reference Number: Ref. 126589RBR
- Diameter: 40mm
- Water Resistance: 100m
- Calibre: Calibre 4131
- Power Reserve: 72 hours
- Price: 58,800CHF
