The Rolex Daytona, named after the famous Daytona International Speedway in Florida, is a highly sought-after watch in the Rolex lineup, with a waiting list of several years. The Daytona was first introduced in 1963 and on the secondary market, the prices are often higher than a brand new one, because of how hard they are to get new. It’s a symbol of luxury, success, and is worn by celebrities and influential figures alike. Why should you invest in a Rolex Daytona? Read on!
Invest in a Rolex Daytona for the Features
- Chronograph function: The Rolex Daytona features a chronograph function that allows the wearer to measure elapsed time with precision.
- Tachymeter scale: The watch also has a tachymeter scale on the bezel, which can be used to calculate speed based on distance.
- Material options: The Daytona is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, and platinum.
- In-house movement: The watch is powered by the Rolex Calibre 4130, an in-house movement that is considered one of the most accurate and reliable chronograph movements in the world.
- Water-resistant: The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
- Power reserve: The Daytona has a power reserve of 72 hours, meaning it can run for up to three days without being wound.
- Dial colors: The watch is available in several different dial colors, including black, white, and silver.
- Strap options: The Daytona comes in a variety of different strap options, including leather, metal, and rubber.
- Automatic winding: The watch is equipped with an automatic winding mechanism, which means it winds itself as the wearer moves their wrist.
- Sapphire crystal: The watch features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which protects the dial from damage.
Rolex Daytona Styles
- Stainless Steel: The most common and classic style of the Rolex Daytona is the stainless steel version. It features a stainless steel case and bracelet and is available in a variety of dial colors.
- Yellow Gold: The Rolex Daytona is also available in 18k yellow gold. It has a warm, rich tone and is a popular choice among those who prefer a more traditional and luxurious look.
- White Gold: Another option is the Rolex Daytona in 18k white gold. It has a sleek, modern look and is a popular choice among those who prefer a more understated style.
- Platinum: The Rolex Daytona is also available in 950 platinum. It is a rare and exclusive edition, highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
- Two-Tone: The Rolex Daytona is also available in a two-tone version, which features a combination of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold.
- Full Gold: The Rolex Daytona is available in full gold edition, which features a combination of 18k yellow gold, white gold and rose gold.
- Diamond-set: Some versions of the Rolex Daytona feature diamond-set bezels, dials, and hour markers, adding an extra touch of luxury and elegance to the watch.
- Ceramic Bezel: Some versions of the Rolex Daytona feature a ceramic bezel which is more resistant to scratches and fading, it also gives a modern look to the watch.
- Leather Strap: The Rolex Daytona can be paired with a leather strap, which gives a more classic and elegant look to the watch.
- Rubber Strap: Another option is the Rolex Daytona with a rubber strap, which gives a sporty and modern look to the watch, it’s perfect for those who like to wear it while doing sports activities.
Rolex Daytona Reference numbers
- Rolex Daytona 116500LN: This is the current stainless steel model, with a black dial, ceramic bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116520: This is a previous stainless steel model, with a white dial, stainless steel bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116523: This is a previous two-tone model, with a white dial, 18k yellow gold and stainless steel bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116509: This is a previous white gold model, with a white dial, 18k white gold bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116518: This is a previous yellow gold model, with a black dial, 18k yellow gold bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116519: This is a previous two-tone model, with a black dial, 18k yellow gold and stainless steel bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116515: This is a previous white gold model, with a black dial, 18k white gold bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116528: This is a previous yellow gold model, with a champagne dial, 18k yellow gold bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116589: This is a previous two-tone model, with a black dial, 18k yellow gold and stainless steel bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
- Rolex Daytona 116599: This is a previous rose gold model, with a black dial, 18k rose gold bezel, and an in-house Calibre 4130 movement.
NOTE: There are many more reference numbers that Rolex has released over the years, but the above are some of the most popular and well-known ones.
Rolex Daytona Serial Numbers
Rolex uses a serial number system to identify and track the production of its watches.
The serial number is typically engraved on the case back of the watch and can be used to determine the date of production. The serial number is generally composed of seven digits, and the first four digits indicate the production year of the watch.
- For example, a serial number starting with 4, 5, or 6 indicates a watch produced between 1990 and 1999.
- A serial number starting with 7, 8, or 9 indicates a watch produced between 2000 and 2010.
- A serial number starting with a letter indicates a watch produced between 2010 and the present
The last three digits of the serial number are used to identify the specific watch within the production year. However, it’s worth noting that Rolex doesn’t disclose the exact production numbers for each reference number, making it difficult to determine the exact production numbers for a specific watch.
NOTE: Some counterfeit watches may have fake serial numbers, so it’s essential to be cautious and to buy from authorized dealers or well-known resellers, who can authenticate the watch and provide the appropriate papers. To check the authenticity of the watch, you can also visit the Rolex website, where you can find a tool that allows you to check the authenticity of the watch by entering the serial number and other details.
Price to Invest in a New Rolex Daytona
The price to invest in a Rolex Daytona can vary depending on the model, materials, and style. Here are some approximate prices for different versions of the Rolex Daytona:
- Stainless Steel: The price of a stainless steel Rolex Daytona can range from $12,000 to $25,000.
- Yellow Gold: The price of a yellow gold Rolex Daytona can range from $25,000 to $40,000.
- White Gold: The price of a white gold Rolex Daytona can range from $30,000 to $45,000.
- Platinum: The price of a platinum Rolex Daytona can range from $50,000 to $80,000.
- Two-Tone: The price of a two-tone Rolex Daytona can range from $20,000 to $30,000.
- Full Gold: The price of a full gold Rolex Daytona can range from $35,000 to $50,000.
- Diamond-set: The price of a diamond-set Rolex Daytona can range from $50,000 to $100,000.
- Ceramic Bezel: The price of a ceramic bezel Rolex Daytona can range from $20,000 to $30,000.
- Leather Strap: The price of a leather strap Rolex Daytona can range from $12,000 to $25,000.
- Rubber Strap: The price of a rubber strap Rolex Daytona can range from $12,000 to $25,000.
NOTE: The above prices to invest in a Rolex Daytona are approximate and can vary depending on the specific model, condition, and availability. The prices can also vary depending on the location, taxes and exchange rates. Also, the prices of pre-owned watches are different than the prices of new watches.
Price to Invest in a Used Rolex Daytona
The price to invest in a used Rolex Daytona can vary depending on several factors including the model, condition, age, and rarity. Here are some approximate prices for different versions of a used Rolex Daytona:
- Stainless Steel: The price of a used stainless steel Rolex Daytona can range from $8,000 to $15,000.
- Yellow Gold: The price of a used yellow gold Rolex Daytona can range from $15,000 to $25,000.
- White Gold: The price of a used white gold Rolex Daytona can range from $20,000 to $30,000.
- Platinum: The price of a used platinum Rolex Daytona can range from $35,000 to $50,000.
- Two-Tone: The price of a used two-tone Rolex Daytona can range from $12,000 to $20,000.
- Full Gold: The price of a used full gold Rolex Daytona can range from $25,000 to $35,000.
- Diamond-set: The price of a used diamond-set Rolex Daytona can range from $30,000 to $50,000.
- Ceramic Bezel: The price of a used ceramic bezel Rolex Daytona can range from $15,000 to $25,000.
- Leather Strap: The price of a used leather strap Rolex Daytona can range from $8,000 to $15,000.
- Rubber Strap: The price of a used rubber strap Rolex Daytona can range from $8,000 to $15,000.
NOTE: The above prices to invest in a used Rolex Daytona are approximate and can vary depending on the specific model, condition, and availability. It’s also important to note that the prices of pre-owned watches can vary depending on the location, taxes, and exchange rates. It’s always recommended to check the authenticity of the watch and its condition before buying it. It’s also a good idea to buy a watch from a reputable dealer or a well-known reseller who can authenticate the watch and provide the appropriate papers.
How to Check the Authenticity of a Rolex Daytona
Verifying the authenticity of a Rolex Daytona can be a bit tricky, but there are several key things to look for to ensure that your watch is genuine. Here are some ways to check the authenticity of a Rolex Daytona:
- Check the serial number: Every Rolex watch has a unique serial number that can be used to verify its authenticity. The serial number should be engraved on the watch’s case back, between the lugs, or on the rehaut (the inner ring surrounding the dial).
- Check the movement: Rolex watches are known for their precise and reliable movements. Make sure the watch is self-winding and has a smooth and steady second hand.
- Check the engravings and markings: Look for the Rolex crown logo on the dial, case back, and movement. Make sure that all engravings and markings are crisp and clear.
- Check the weight: A genuine Rolex Daytona should feel heavy and solid.
- Check the bracelet: The bracelet should be made of high-quality materials and should have the Rolex logo engraved on the clasp.
- Check the crystal: The crystal should be made of sapphire and should be highly resistant to scratches.
- Check the bezel: The bezel should rotate smoothly and click firmly into place.
- Check the price: If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic Rolex Daytonas can be very expensive, and if the price is significantly lower than the retail price, it’s likely a fake.
- It’s always a good idea to purchase a Rolex Daytona from a reputable and authorized dealer or reseller who can authenticate the watch and provide the appropriate papers and warranty.
- Read our article on the Fake Rolex!!
In Conclusion
We love the Rolex Daytona. This is a gorgeous watch that can be sporty, casual, or dressy. It can be understated or over the top. It is the top of line when it comes to the luxury watch market. All images we have in our showroom, which means we would love to see you invest in a Rolex Daytona that we have in stock! Call Sergio, make an appointment, or contact us. Just come over to see our beautiful selection!
