The Rolex Daytona has once again captured the spotlight following clone Rolex’s announcement of discontinuing a beloved model while simultaneously unveiling captivating new iterations.
The scene unfolded at this month’s Watches and Wonders event, where Rolex quietly bid farewell to the ‘Le Mans’ Daytona, a commemorative edition marking the 100th anniversary of the renowned motor event. Adorned with a white gold case and a distinctive ‘reverse’ panda dial crafted from black ceramic, featuring the “100” indication in vibrant red, and housing a movement tailored for the race’s demanding 24-hour duration, this model paid homage to Rolex’s revered exotic and Paul Newman dial heritage. Released briefly in June 2023, its limited availability appears deliberate.
“It’s quite surprising,” remarks Spencer Dryer, Managing Director of London’s BQ Watches, “but it aligns with Rolex’s strategy. Discontinuing a model inevitably elevates its value and allure, ensuring its enduring legacy in the realm of luxury watches.”
In response to the disappointment stemming from the Le Mans replica Rolex Daytona’s departure, Rolex unveiled a series of captivating new Daytonas, including two exquisite editions featuring precious stone dials. These models employ contrasting black and white mother-of-pearl to emulate the iconic ‘Panda’ and ‘Reverse Panda’ dials, accentuated with bezels adorned with 36 dazzling diamonds. While not as flamboyant as the famed Rolex Daytona ‘Rainbow’ of years past, these new editions are poised to become coveted treasures in the Rolex lineup.
“The introduction of these new models also instills a sense of apprehension regarding their future availability,” observes Dryer. “Similar to the ‘Sprite’ GMT-Master II, Rolex’s penchant for limited releases fuels speculation and drives market demand.”
A cornerstone in Rolex’s illustrious portfolio, the Daytona’s allure has steadily ascended over the years, evidenced by perpetually lengthy waiting lists. With fingers crossed for injury-free performances, Rolex anticipates tennis prodigy Carlos Alcaraz – recently spotted in Barcelona sporting a gold and ceramic Daytona with a meteorite dial – to grace his wrist with the coveted watch following triumphant matches during the tennis circuit’s clay and grass seasons.
The 20-year-old sensation made headlines for clinching the Wimbledon title donning a since-discontinued 116518LN-0076 in yellow gold with a meteorite dial, while his 2022 US Open victory was celebrated with a more understated 116500LN in robust steel.
“For over 35 years, I’ve been immersed in buying, selling, and collecting Rolex watches,” shares Scott D. Kaplan, proprietor of H.Q. Milton Watches, a distinguished Rolex dealer based in San Francisco. “The Rolex Daytona has always been the epitome of aspiration for collectors and watch aficionados alike. Acquiring one has always presented a challenge.”
Paul Newman’s affinity for the Daytona, coupled with its sporty, utilitarian design, propelled the model to ‘grail’ status, particularly when adorned with a touch of ‘tropical’ patina on the dial. Yet, it took Rolex several years to refine the Daytona into the coveted watch it is today.
“At one point, it lacked waterproofing, a perpetual (automatic) movement, and an Oyster case,” adds Dryer. “It was an outlier! However, thanks to collectors, and Paul Newman’s influence, it enjoyed a renaissance, becoming a mainstream icon…and as with any Rolex, scarcity drives demand and prices soar.”
“Once a watch gains acclaim for its desirability, its value skyrockets,” he continues. “The modern Daytona’s impeccable design, coupled with its versatile case size suitable for both men and women, makes it a symbol of status and importance. Wearing a Rolex Daytona signifies social significance…and the iconic contrasting sub-dial design cements its status as a pinnacle in the luxury watch universe.”