ROLEX DAYTONA: HOW TO BUY IT AND WHICH MODEL TO CHOOSE

In the vast luxury watch market, it is never easy to find the right item that represents one’s style and personality. The number of top-of-the-range watches is enormous, and it is certainly not easy to choose between the different models present in the various catalogs . In those catalogs, each of us must stubbornly navigate through a myriad of watches, from the most expensive and famous ones to those at more advantageous prices but can enhance your look. Among the numerous models, however, there is a watch capable of carving out its personal space, defining an era, and becoming an authentic status symbol: the Rolex Daytona. We are talking about a luxury watch full of charm and tradition, a chronograph that certainly falls in the ranking of the best Rolex watches ever, an object that has been capable of attracting a wide audience regardless of age group since its inception, in all its forms conquering the male public with its beauty and style, offering numerous models capable of reflecting the unique characteristics of each individual, and and creating common ground in every opinion.

Choosing the perfect watch from among all the brands of luxury watches can be very difficult, both for the young and for true gentleman and fans, but the Rolex Daytona has always been a point of reconciliation for all watch lovers. It is a purportedly functional and useful product in everyday life, a true wearable work of art that makes the wearer stand out from the crowd, paying them back for the great investment made to obtain it.

This chronograph has really made the ranks, and is considered without qualm or hesitation the sop spot in the ranking of the best watches . It manages to encompass charm, comfort, elegance, and innovation in a single solution. And it’s all thanks to the fascinating history of Daytona car races, and an exceptional testimony we will relate to you later.

In our guide, you will discover the origins and history of this fantastic watch, how and where to buy it, but above all how to strike a deal with used models and at auctions. We also couldn’t forget to include the techniques you need to identify a fake Rolex from an original one.

The History of the Rolex Daytona

Few watches have attracted a real mythology as the Rolex Daytona has. Named after the Floridian city, known throughout the United States as the Speed Capital, it is well revered for the motor racing that takes place there. Launched in 1963, the Rolex Daytona – like the Heuer Carrera and the Omega Speedmaster – aimed to exploit the growing popularity of motor racing in order to play off of great fascination and public interest. Precisely for this reason, Rolex worked hard to become the first official Daytona timekeeper in 1962, one year before the debut of the Cosmograph Reference 6239.

Rolex nicknamed this the “Daytona” model in 1963 in order to emphasize the watch’s affiliation with the prestigious car race. This model was designed specifically for racecar drivers, which explains why the tachymeter scale on the bezel is significantly larger than its counterparts on most other watches. The great success of this men’s watch derives in part from a luxury testimonial, a true celebrity of the late 1960s: Paul Newman. The American, in addition to being a renowned actor, was also a very successful racecar driver, and his Daytona watch accompanied him during all of his races. In was no coincidence, then, that in the 80s, collectors nicknamed this style of Daytona “Paul Newman,” a story that over the years has become mythologized in the history of cutting edge collector’s watches. Other important models in the history of Daytona are the 16520, 116528, 6234, 6239, 6265, and 6264 .

How much does a Rolex Daytona cost?

As we have seen, the Rolex Daytona is a model of great charm, marked by a unique history that has made it a symbol of style, dynamism, and elegance. Like any successful model, this chronograph has undergone numerous variations and refinements throughout its history. The presentation of a great variety of models inevitably affected the price range; indeed, costs can vary by many thousands of dollars depending on characteristic specifications.

How much, then, does a Rolex Daytona cost?

The steel model with a ceramic bezel introduced in 2016 (reference 116500LN ) has a list price of 11,550 dollars, and it can have a white or black dial, as shown in the photo.

Of course, there are many other variations of Rolex Daytona: it can come in yellow, pink, or white gold , as well as in platinum . For the most demanding, there are even models covered with diamonds that inevitably raise the price , which can vary from the cheaper chronograph of 11, 550 dollars up to 32,300 dollars. For the unique pieces and vintage watches that require a specific request from the dealer before being made available for purchase, bogged down by a long waiting list, the price can go even higher.

As aforementioned, buying a Rolex Daytona is certainly a significant investment, and so it becomes necessary to analyze – in detail – all the models available in order to find the most suitable watch for your style and look. Both the prices and the materials used for manufacturing must be taken into account, in addition to any specific Rolex offers or limited series for the most affectionate customers – implying models that can increase in value over time.

List and Catalog of All 38 Rolex Daytona Models

We have analyzed for you all the models available from Rolex Daytona , detailing the information and features released on the official website of the Swiss company. There are some variations for each model, sometimes minimal ones, but you can rest assured that you’ll always have something unique. Let’s now take a look at the various models that can be purchased.

Rolex Daytona in Gold 116503

 

A Daytona cosmographer that combines the elegance and beauty of gold with the dynamism and innovation of steel, merging them into Rolesor, a unique mix present in Rolex models since the dawn of the Swiss company. It essentially became the brand’s signature, as well as one of the pillars of the Oyster collection.

The black dial makes it discreet and suitable for any occasion, while the Oyster bracelet is the result of a perfect alchemy between form and function.

Price: 15,750 dollars

Rolex Daytona OYSTERFLEX 116518LN

This model of Daytona is characterized by the Oysterflex bracelet, developed and patented by Rolex. At the heart of the bracelet is an extremely elastic metal blade, covered in a high-performance black elastomer. In addition to the Oysterlock safety clip, the watch features an Easylink quick extension link, a patented Rolex system that allows you to easily adjust the length of the bracelet by about 5 mm, for greater comfort in all circumstances. All that, on top of the champagne and black dial, comes together for an innovative model made for an audience attentive to aesthetics and comfort.

Price: 25,650 dollars

Rolex Daytona in Steel 116500LN

 

Made entirely of stainless steel , this chronograph is equipped with the caliber 4130, a mechanical movement system produced by Rolex. Being made with fewer components than a common chronograph guarantees greater reliability. Designed to withstand extreme conditions, it can reach up to 100 meters / 330 feet underwater without any problems, and the anti-scratch sapphire glass guarantees that this Swiss watch always remains in perfect condition.

Price: 11,550 dollars

Rolex Daytona Blue Dial 116509

 

This Daytona is inspired by a classic but sporty design. Its red-trimmed blue dial stands out against the contrast of the 18-karat white gold bracelet, made with a clever mix of silver , copper, platinum, or palladium. The resulting model differs from others for its highly legible Chromalight display, equipped with long-lasting, blue luminescent material.

Price: €34,900

Rolex Daytona Rolesor 116503

This intermediate Rolex Daytona model focuses on charm, but does not miss a beat on the quality of its materials. The price is 17,600 dollars – and we are talking about a yellow Rolesor watch (a combination of 904L steel and 18ct yellow gold) that attracts the attention of anyone who approaches you. The dial is the focal point of the model, with its champagne color that evokes a sumptuous atmosphere, and further enhanced by diamonds in 18ct gold settings. An ideal watch for those not afraid to take center stage.

Price: 17,600 dollars

Rolex Daytona Black 116519LN

This model (Reference 116519LN) in 18-karat white gold breaks with tradition in favor of innovation, focusing heavily on a futuristic image that remains in line with the Rolex style. The steel and black dial is minimalist yet effective, fitting well with the Oysterflex bracelet that guarantees comfort, adaptability, and resistance.

Price: €26,750

Rolex Daytona Everose 116505

This Daytona is subtly made with 18ct gold, coated with an exclusive rose gold alloy produced in Rolex foundries, and is equipped with the caliber 4130, a mechanical movement system produced by Rolex. It is a harmonious model dominated by light colors, with an ivory dial marked by concentric circles.

Price: €34,900

Rolex Daytona Platinum 116506

 

This model represents the top of the Rolex range, with a variable price based on specific requests and market trends. Made exclusively with 950 platinum, a very pure alloy that requires meticulous and delicate processing, it is a mechanical watch with automatic winding. Certainly a product able to satisfy the most refined palates and the most demanding customers.

Price: Price on request.

Rolex Daytona Stainless Steel 904L 116500LN

 

This chronograph is made entirely of 904L stainless steel, which – thanks to its characteristics – guarantees maximum resistance to corrosion. Among the cheaper Daytona watches, it stands out for its solidity, simple and sporty style, and technologies: the chronograph is waterproof up to 100 meters / 330 feet deep, and is equipped with a bidirectional automatic winding with Perpetual rotor.

Price: 11,550 dollars

Rolex Daytona Green 116508

 

In terms of the public imagination, he pictured model (Reference 116508) is considered the best representation of Rolex, recognizable for the wonderful contrast between the yellow gold bracelet and the green dial with red furnishings. The fruit of careful technological and design studies, its impeccable beauty and functionality is guaranteed by the careful checks carried out for each of its components.

Price: 32,300 dollars

Rolex Daytona Blue Ice 116506-0002

 

An over-the-top model for anyone who loves luxury and elegance at the highest levels. The ice blue dial allows for an accurate reading of 1/8 of a second, and is embellished by the application of 8 baguette-cut diamonds, with 3 additional diamonds at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. A unique chronograph that requires requesting the seller in order to know the exact market price.

Price: Price on request.

Rolex Daytona Pink and Black 116515ln-0013

 

Made of Everose gold, an alloy created and used exclusively by Rolex with 18ct pink gold, this model is an interesting mix of style and innovation. Its pink and black dial attracts attention, while the Oysterflex bracelet guarantees elasticity and comfort to the wearer. This chronograph has a diameter of 40 mm and is equipped with a screw-down winding crown, with a Triplock triple waterproofing system.

Price: €26,750

Rolex Daytona White Dial 116503-0001

 

The model we are presenting (Reference 116503) has a price of 15,750 dollars and was built with one of the best Rolex materials: Rolesor, an extraordinary mix of yellow gold and steel capable of guaranteeing extraordinary reliability and resistance. The Oysterlock folding safety clasp and Easylink 5mm quick extension mesh guarantee an innovative and suitable product for everyone.

Price: 15,750 dollars

Rolex Daytona Oyster Champagne Bracelet 116508-0006

 

This model is aimed at a public that loves luxury and is not afraid of being the center of attention. Made of yellow gold and with a champagne dial, this chronograph leaves an impression on the eye thanks to the presence of the dial’s 8 diamonds in gold settings. Together with the black ceramic Cerachrom monoblock bezel with engraved tachymeter scale, the quality and refinement of this watch is paramount.

Price: 34,150 dollars

Rolex Daytona Mother-of-Pearl 116509-0064

 

A chronograph made entirely of white gold that combines beauty, elegance, and innovation in a minimalist but high-quality mix. Purchasable for 39,300 dollars, it maintains a uniform line thanks to the white mother-of-pearl dial, which is embellished with diamonds in 18ct gold settings. It has a screw-down winding crown, with a Triplock triple waterproofing system and a two-way automatic winding with Perpetual rotor.

Price: 39,300 dollars

Rolex Daytona Chocolate Dial 116515ln-0015

 

This Daytona model is characterized by the Oysterflex bracelet, inside of which there is an extremely elastic metal blade covered in a high-performance black elastomer, guaranteeing great comfort in all circumstances. The elegant mix of rose gold with the chocolate dial makes it a real gem for those who want to stand out from the crowd.

Price: €26,750

Pink Rolex Daytona with Movement 4130 116505-0006

 

We are now talking about a top-of-the-range Rolex chronograph. It is characterized by the use of Everose gold in combination with a pink dial, further enhanced by the 8 baguette-cut diamonds and 3 additional diamonds that mark 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. A model full of charm and style, tailor-made for the most refined palates. It comes equipped with a screw-down winding crown, and with a Triplock triple waterproofing system that allows it to reach a depth of 100 meters / 330 feet.

Price: 40,750 dollars

Rolex Daytona Gold 18CT 116509-0055

 

This Daytona is equipped with the caliber 4130, a mechanical movement system produced by Rolex that guarantees maximum reliability. It is a sporty chronograph that does not give up on elegance and luxury, being made in white gold and having a black dial covered in diamonds.

Price: €36,750

Rolex Daytona Mother-of-Pearl Dial Gold 116508-0007

The model we are presenting here is made of 18ct yellow gold, with a white mother-of-pearl dial further enriched by diamonds set in pairs. Equipped with a Perpetual rotor, it is a mechanical self-winding chronograph able to meet the needs of those who do not want to give up on luxury and innovation.

Price: €36,700

Rolex Daytona White Gold 116509-0044

The chronograph in question (Reference 116509) is one of the most distinctive Rolex Daytona models. Cast in white gold, it impresses itself on the eye for its sharp contrast with the black mother-of-pearl dial studded with diamonds. These factors further enhance the Oyster metal bracelet with three flat links, which guarantees comfort and strength.

Price: 39,300 dollars

Rolex Daytona Dial Sapphire 116505-0002

This Rolex Daytona chronograph exudes charm, courtesy of the harmony of materials and colors. Made in 18-karat pink gold and featuring a black and pink dial with concentric-circle counters, it is a model that can win over the public with its unique nuances and details.

Price: €34,900

Rolex Daytona Oyster Bracelet 116503-0003

The model we present here, with a price of 15,750 dollars, and is made from one of the materials that best represents Rolex: Rolesor, a unique mix of yellow gold and steel capable of guaranteeing reliability and resistance. The Oysterlock folding safety clasp and Easylink 5mm quick extension mesh guarantee an innovative and suitable product for everyone.

Price: 15,750 dollars

Rolex Daytona Gold Everose 116505-0001

A Rolex Daytona model full of charm for the harmony of its materials and minimal color contrast. Made of 18-karat pink gold and featuring a pink dial with black concentric-circle counters, this model strikes the eye for its beauty and elegance. It doesn’t neglect innovation and technology, either, thanks to the winding crown screw, as well as the Triplock triple waterproofing system that allows the chronograph to reach up to 100 meters / 330 feet deep.

Price: €34,900

Rolex Daytona Dial with Diamonds 116503-0007

This Rolex Daytona is capable of combining the innovation and style of Rolesor – a wonderful mix of yellow gold and steel, of which the watch is composed – with the elegance and luxury of diamonds, set in the white mother-of-pearl dial. A unique product, able to fuse simplicity and luxury in a high-quality and extraordinarily technological model.

Price: 20,150 dollars

Rolex Waterproof Daytona 116505-0004

This variant is characterized by a exuberant design rich in contrasts, made in Everose gold but impressing itself on the wrist with a chocolate dial, on which the hour numbers rise imperiously in black relief. The finishes are extremely accurate and make this chronograph an extraordinary mix of elegance and personality.

Price: €34,900

Rolex Daytona Two-Way Automatic Winding 116508-0001

The model we are presenting is made of 18-karat yellow gold, featuring a simple and functional white dial that always allows optimal visibility. The Oyster metal bracelet with three large and flat links – particularly sturdy and comfortable – is a guarantee of reliability, innovation, and robustness. Equipped with automatic two-way charging with Perpetual rotor, its autonomy lasts for approximately 72 hours.

Price: 32,300 dollars

Rolex Luminescent Daytona 116509-0072

The chronograph in question (Reference 116509) sells for 34,900 dollars, and is simultaneously one of the simplest and most elegant models of Rolex Daytona. Cast in white gold, with a 40mm steel dial featuring three concentric black circles, this is a model that looks to the future while maintaining the sobriety and elegance of the Rolex tradition.

Price: €34,900

Rolex Daytona with Diamonds in 18ct Gold Settings. 116503-0008

This men’s wristwatch was built using Rolesor, an extraordinary mix of yellow gold and steel capable of guaranteeing extraordinary reliability and resistance. The black dial stands out in contrast with the light colors of the bracelet and further highlights the set diamonds, making them shine like headlights in the night.

Rolex Daytona Ivory Dial 116515ln-0014

This Daytona is characterized by the Oysterflex bracelet, which contains an extremely elastic metal blade covered in a high-performance black elastomer, capable of guaranteeing great comfort in all circumstances. The elegant contrast between the black bracelet and the ivory dial makes it a veritable work of art in the realm of luxury watches.

Price: €26,750

Rolex Daytona with Engraved Tachymeter Scale 116508-0003

This Rolex is made entirely in 18-karat yellow gold, with a champagne-colored dial that imbues the product with a harmonious continuity. The Oyster metal bracelet is fitted with three large and flat links, particularly robust and comfortable. Together with the screw-down winding crown and the Triplock triple waterproofing system, this model maintains a classic and sporty style without sacrificing luxury and elegance.

Price: 32,300 dollars

Rolex Daytona 116515ln-0016

The chronograph presented here is characterized by a clever mix of freshness and elegance, with an eye pointed toward the future. Made with Rolex’s exclusive Everx gold alloy, its pink dial set with diamonds shows off its splendor and creates a pleasant contrast with the black Oysterflex bracelet. The case has a diameter of 40 mm. It can reach up to 100 meters / 330 feet deep thanks to the Triplock waterproofing system.

Price: 32,600 dollars

Rolex Daytona 116508-0004

A perfect model for those who don’t want to compromise. Made in 18-karat yellow gold, this Rolex makes a great visual impact with a black dial that combines the classic and elegant style of the well-known Swiss brand with the luxury and perfection of its materials. An innovative technology called Triplock is used in this Daytona, which guarantees water resistance up to 100 meters / 330 feet.

Price: 32,300 dollars

Rolex Daytona Black Mother-of-Pearl with Diamonds 116503-0009

This Rolex Daytona is sold for 20,150 dollars. It is a product capable of combining the innovation and style of the Rolesor – a wonderful mix of yellow gold and steel, of which the watch is composed – with the elegance and luxury of diamonds set in the black mother-of-pearl dial. A unique and original watch, able to fuse simplicity and luxury in a high-quality and extraordinarily technological model.

Price: 20,150 dollars

Rolex Daytona 116515ln-0012

A model of Rolex Daytona characterized by an elegant linearity that makes clever use of contrasts and shades of color. The black Oysterflex bracelet separates with tradition, resulting a youthful and innovative product enriched by a two-way automatic winding with Perpetual rotor. The use of pink gold – amplified by the black and pink dial – essentially makes it a design jewel.

Price: €26,750

Rolex Daytona Chronograph 116508-0011

This Daytona model is made entirely of 18-karat yellow gold, with a black mother-of-pearl dial further enriched by set diamonds. The case has a diameter of 40 mm; the crown is screwed in; and there is a Triplock triple waterproofing system. The Oyster metal bracelet, both robust and comfortable, brings the right mix of originality and classicism.

Price: €36,700

Rolex Daytona Red and Gold Hands 116508-0009

The chronograph pictured here, sold for €32,300, is made of yellow gold, with a red-trimmed black dial containing three concentric, champagne-colored circles. Equipped with the caliber 4130, a mechanical movement system produced by Rolex, this piece is a clear example of quality, innovation, and style.

Price: 32,300 dollars

Rolex Daytona Oyster, 40mm, Yellow Gold 116508-0014

Another Daytona made entirely in 18-karat yellow gold, the champagne-colored dial – featuring black concentric circles – creates continuity and harmony in the entire product. Equipped with an Oysterlock folding safety clasp and an Easylink 5mm quick extension link, it represents the right mix between technology and luxury.

Price: 32,300 dollars

Rolex Daytona 116508-0008

The most lavish variant of the Rolex Daytona, this 18-karat yellow gold model has a black dial embellished with eight set diamonds. It is equipped with the caliber 4130, a mechanical movement system produced by Rolex, which includes a Parachrom spiral that guarantees excellent resistance to shocks and temperature variations.

Price: 34,150 dollars

Where to buy a Rolex Daytona

Watch experts, along with the majority of specialized sites and magazines, have declared that the new generation Rolex Daytona , with its Cerachrom bezel, is a true triumph – “the watch that Rolex lovers have been waiting for,” to quote Gear Patrol . Something that fans were waiting for indeed; the relevant audience’s response was clear from the beginning of production. Although the price is over 10 thousand dollars, retailers were immediately bombarded by orders. “From the moment it was announced, the question was different from anything else we’ve ever seen,” said Ira Melnitsky, the managing director of Tourneau, a well-known retail company in the watch sector.

All this enthusiasm for the Daytona begets a problem in buying our object of desire: the available models are numerically scarce, demand is very high, and consumers are ready to do anything to get one. The Rolex production plan is certainly not available in the public domain, and so there are no official figures on the number of models distributed, which makes the brand even more complicated to find on the market. Where to buy a Rolex Daytona, then?

Considering these aspects, it becomes essential to rely on a serious and qualified Rolex watch dealer , able to offer security and guarantees to the buyer. We have therefore selected the best shops where you can carefully and seriously choose your watch without worry. Here are the best:

1. Rolex official dealers

Buy or sell a Rolex Daytona through auctions

The Daytona is one of the most famous and identifiable Rolex models out there. There is certainly a lot of thought and consideration behind the purchase of every Rolex Daytona, in addition the time and money it takes. Objects of this kind can in some cases become excellent investments, especially in the case of collector items that can be resold at specific auctions. The example of greatest fanfare surrounding these products certainly concerns the famous Rolex Daytona owned by Paul Newman, which was auctioned for almost 18 million dollars, establishing a world record still unbeaten. It is obviously not necessary to arrive at million-dollar figures in order to obtain an exceptional wristwatch. Indeed, by making use of various auctions, it is possible to find authentic bargains, invest in this type of watch, and obtain a cheap Rolex Daytona . Here are some sites that specialize in this type of transaction, where you can take advantage of worthwhile investments for your future in a solid and growing market:

1. Catawiki

Buy a second-hand Rolex Daytona

Auctions are not the only way to get hold of a Rolex Daytona, as the used or vintage watch market is becoming more and more popular (the difference is mainly the age; by “vintage,” we mean a model from at least 25 years ago). It is an interesting sector, both for those who sell and for those who buy, and a contributor to the lasting and constant success of Rolex.

A used Daytona will not lose its value as quickly as a more common watch would, and the reliable resale market makes buyers confident that they have smartly invested their money. It is nonetheless necessary to rely on the advice of secure sites and online stores , which are able to offer sales and guarantees, as well as help to avoid unpleasant surprises for lovers of expensive watches . We have selected the best used and vintage dealers for you, so you can evaluate your investments or purchases with the necessary peace of mind. These products are certainly discounted compared to list prices, probably making them the best Rolex watches for price / quality:

1. Catawiki

Fakes and replicas

A special watch like the Rolex Daytona, as we have seen, has become increasingly fashionable and trendy. This is because it is an icon of the sector, a true status symbol – so much so as to have created dangerous series selling fakes and replicas that could deceive customers who aren’t careful or prepared. It is therefore essential to help our readers to be able to identify an original from a fake , starting with the series of differences listed below.

How to recognize a fake Rolex Daytona

Perfect character – Rolex would never release a watch if it wasn’t perfect, down to the writing on the dial. If the lettering is crooked or poorly defined, it is most likely a fake.

Engravings – There are always engravings on the sides of the watch, usually on the loops, where the model number and the serial number are indicated. If one of these engravings is missing or crooked, it is likely a replica.

Price – If the price of a “brand new” Rolex Daytona watch is significantly lower than the official website list price, you can bet it is a replica or a fake.

Quality – Rolex Daytona watches are made of high-quality materials. When you have a Daytona in your hand, the watch should have a certain weight. If it’s really light, it’s probably made from a cheaper material, so it’s a replica or a fake.

Model number – Make sure the model number of the watch matches the material. If the model number says that the watch should be in 18-karat white gold, but the watch is made of stainless steel, then it’s a fake.

Triplock System – The Rolex Daytona is designed to withstand considerable underwater pressure thanks to the Triplock waterproofing system. The vast majority of replicas do integrate this system, so its presence helps a lot to distinguish between an original and a fake. To determine if a Rolex Daytona has this system or not, you need to pull out the crown. If there is a black rubber gasket at the end of the crown, then there is indeed a Triplock system.

Final Considerations

Now that you know the history of the Rolex Daytona and its respective models, all you have to do is buy one through authorized retail stores, auctions, or the used market. If you need free expert advice on how and where buy it, to check whether your Daytona is original or counterfeit, or have any other request, you can use the form at the following link . One of our Rolex experts will answer you as soon as possible.

Which model do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below.