The announcement of the release of a new Rolex always resounds like a clap of thunder in the watchmaking sky. When it comes to the launch of an unprecedented version of the emblematic Cosmograph Daytona, the event takes on a very special sparkle. But in June 2023, the Swiss house has pushed the cursor even further by choosing to present this new vintage of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona during the centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Several characteristics, technical or aesthetic, weave a link between the watch and the most famous of endurance races. Enough to write a new chapter in the legend of the Rolex Daytona.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona watch. Case in 18 carat white gold. Diameter 40mm. Caliber 4132 automatic movement. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Water resistance 100m. Oyster bracelet in 18k white gold with Oysterlock safety clasp and Easylink quick extender. €50,900.
© ©Rolex/JVA Studios
The story begins sixty years ago. In 1963, Rolex designed a new sports watch called Cosmograph. To recall its partnership with the racing circuit located in Daytona Beach, Florida, the Swiss watchmaker inscribes “Daytona” on the dial. The saga can then start, then pick up speed, in 1969, when Hollywood star Paul Newman wore this chronograph on the sets during the filming of the film Virages. In 1979, it was still the actor – now the owner of several versions of the watch – who gave a new boost to the Cosmograph Daytona by participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. He finished second overall in a Porsche 935, teamed up with Dick Barbour and former F1 driver Rolf Stommelen. That year, the two names Daytona and Le Mans traveled together for the first time. This proximity reached a new milestone in 2001 when Rolex became an official partner of the Le Mans event. Before going up another notch in 2007 when the brand decided to give a watch engraved with the word “Winner” to the winning drivers. Which model ? An Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona… Tomorrow, Sunday, shortly after 4 p.m., each driver of the winning team of the centenary race will also receive a copy bearing the engraving “WINNER 2023 100 YEARS 24h LE MANS” on the back. A vintage watch that will enter directly into the watchmaking pantheon.
But in this month of June, it will not be mandatory to climb on the top step of the podium erected above the pit entrance to feed dreams of Daytona. Rolex is unveiling today a new version of its emblematic watch which should arouse the desire of all collectors. The reason is simple: this piece was created in honor of the centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a highly symbolic anniversary.
The chronograph counter located on the left of the dial displays the time elapsed over twenty-four hours and the Cerachrom bezel has a tachymeter scale whose numeral 100 is adorned in red. A double tribute to the centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. © ©Rolex/JVA Studios
Crafted in 18-carat white gold in a diameter of 40 mm, this particular version stands out from all those that have preceded it since 1963 with a design and movement that directly evokes the legendary race. For example, its black ceramic Cerachrom bezel edged with a gold border has a tachymeter scale marked with a number 100 colored in red. An obvious evocation of the centenary of the race. In addition, the dial incorporates on its left a counter whose timing capacity has been increased to twenty-four hours (instead of twelve usually on the model). This performance is made possible by adapting the automatic caliber 4131, here renamed 4132.
During the Watches show