The Rolex Daytona has a rich and storied history. It is one of those iconic pieces, generational in nature and a phenom in horological culture. Instantly recognisable, indubiously unique and full of character, the revered Rolex Daytona has become a staple piece for many collectors, categorically forging its own special niche in the market.
Originally introduced in 1963, the Rolex Daytona was designed to meet the stringent demands of professional racing drivers. And over 50 years since its introduction to the world, after many versions, variations and iterations, the Rolex Daytona continues to reign supreme as one of the world's most sought after and respected watches. Such is its influence that we've seen the evolution of the ever-growing Instagram hashtag #daytonadienstag, created in stark comparison to the Daytona's nearest rival, the Speedmaster with its popular #speedytuesday hashtag.
To celebrate the uprising of the #daytonadienstag Instagram hashtag, we've put together a list of some of the coolest modern Rolex Daytona references we could find that really portray the depth and wide spectrum of variations currently available. Enjoy!
Rolex Daytona 'Platona' 116506
Arguably the king of the modern Rolex Daytona is the reference 116506, also known as the 'Platona'. Clad in 40mm of platinum, featuring an ice blue dial offset by a chestnut-brown Cerachrom bezel, the Rolex Daytona 'Platona' 116506 is one of the most sought after and most expensive of all Daytona models.
Rolex Daytona 116500LN
With its introduction earlier this decade, the Rolex Daytona 116500LN marked the next step in the Daytona's evolution. It now featured a bi-colour dial, a ceramic bezel and a new movement. It also marked the turn of a market whose previous sentiment towards the Rolex Daytona was less, how should I say it, intense. Fast forward to 2020 and the Rolex Daytona 116500LN is arguably one of the world's hardest steel watches to purchase.
Rolex Daytona 'Panda' 116500LN
The complete aesthetic inversion in comparison to its black-dialled twin, the Rolex Daytona 116500LN also affectionately known as the 'Panda' was released at the same time as its darker brother. Instead of a black dial, the Rolex Daytona 116500LN features a white dial, hence its 'Panda' nickname. Just as difficult to get your hands on, if not more, than the black dial version.
Rolex Daytona 116505
Clad in Everose gold and featuring a rose-coloured dial with black sub-dials, the Rolex Daytona 116505 is an adventurous piece. I really like the use of the super exotic looking Everose gold throughout, with matching bracelet and bezel. The Rolex Daytona 116505 may not be as in demand or held in the highest of regards in comparison to its steel brothers, but it still is one delightful piece of horology.
Rolex Daytona 116518LN
The Rolex Daytona 116518LN introduces the world to casual luxury. The combination of a yellow gold case with the Oysterflex bracelet is a novel one, especially for Rolex, but it's a look that really compliments the piece. I love the contrast of the black Oysterflex bracelet, the black ceramic bezel and the black sub-dials, a monochromatic colour scheme that is in stark contrast to the champagne-coloured dial and stunning yellow gold case.
Rolex Daytona 116505 IVSO
Clad entirely in rose gold and featuring an ivory dial, the Rolex Daytona 116505 IVSO is a soft, soothing and super luxurious approach to the venerable Daytona. The light-coloured aesthetic of the Rolex Daytona 116505 IVSO gives it an almost feminine look as well as the ability to be dressed up or down.
Rolex Daytona 116515LN
The Rolex Daytona 116515LN continues on the ultra-luxe-cross-casual theme of combining precious metal cases with sporty bracelets and bands. This particular model features a beautiful Everose gold dial, a black Cerachrom bezel, a black and pink dial and an Oysterflex strap. Sporty and luxurious, the definition of the Daytona.
Rolex Daytona 116519.BRLGRA
The final piece in our #daytonadienstag roundup is the Rolex Daytona 116519.BRLGRA. This particular reference is not the most common Daytona model, but it certainly is one of the coolest. Clad in white gold, it features a stunning grey dial with bold Arabic stylised hour numerals and touches of red rimming the sub-dials. Very interesting.
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