Launched in 1963, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona has long since transcended its status in the world of watchmaking to become an icon. Its name, inextricably linked with the famous circuit at Daytona Beach, Florida, embodies the ties between Rolex and motor sport, in particular the world’s greatest endurance races. Its legendary status owes much to its instantly recognizable dial with contrasting circles. Continually perfected and enhanced over the years, the Cosmograph Daytona is the reliable and precise companion of those who choose to forge their own path.
The Cosmograph Daytona is emblematic of Rolex’s expertise and stands out by virtue of its chronometric precision as well as its unfailing reliability.
A legendary design
Bezel, minute track and three counters: this characteristic five-circle iconography is emblematic of the Cosmograph Daytona. Over time, the design of the dials, the colour combinations and the architecture of the cases have been regularly reworked to reaffirm the elegance of the model.
A key part of the Cosmograph Daytona’s identity, the tachymetric scale is located on the bezel of the watch. It allows average speeds of up to 400 kilometres or miles per hour to be determined via a central sweep seconds hand.
Calibre 4131
The most Superlative Chronograph movement
The Cosmograph Daytona is equipped with calibre 4131. This chronograph movement, entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex, is an evolution of calibre 4130. Unveiled in 2023, it incorporates a number of the major innovations that Rolex has brought to its movements, including the Chronergy escapement, Paraflex shock absorbers and an optimized ball bearing.
This calibre features a cut-out oscillating weight and, on the bridges, an exclusive Rolex Côtes de Genève decoration – a reinterpretation of an iconic finishing in traditional Swiss watchmaking.
On the version in 950 platinum, recognizable by its ice blue dial, the oscillating weight is made from yellow gold and is visible to the wearer through the transparent case back in sapphire.
Oysterflex bracelet
All-round comfort
The 18 ct gold versions of the Cosmograph Daytona featuring a Cerachrom bezel are available with an Oysterflex bracelet. Developed by Rolex and patented, it singularly combines the robustness of a metal bracelet with the comfort of an elastomer bracelet. Equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp, which prevents accidental opening, its length may be adjusted via the ingenious Rolex Glidelock extension system.
Breaking away from convention
Since its launch, the Cosmograph Daytona has been the watch of choice for motor sport enthusiasts. Like Paul Newman, the legendary actor, experienced racing driver and pioneering social entrepreneur, Sir Jackie Stewart, an emblematic figure of Formula 1® and one of the most celebrated drivers of the past 50 years, Tom Kristensen, the Danish racing driver who won a record nine 24 Hours of Le Mans races, and Jamie Chadwick, the young British racing driver who has become the new women’s reference for single-seaters, many have adopted the chronograph in their everyday lives beyond the racetrack.
