Where speed and luxury converge: Unveiling the new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona collection

Since its debut in 1963, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona has captivated those with a penchant for speed and sophistication. Renowned for its precision timing and sleek design, this timepiece remains a symbol of excellence more than 60 years later.

The Cosmograph Daytona’s hallmark design perpetuates the legacy of the chronograph. Featuring a distinctive tachymetric bezel and a high-performance mechanical movement, it has become the go-to instrument for measuring time intervals and average speeds.

Over the years, the watch has also been reimagined in luxurious gem-set incarnations, where the tachymetric scale is replaced with coloured precious stones. This year, two new models featuring diamonds add a new chapter to the watch’s illustrious history.

ART OF THE DIAL

The latest Cosmograph Daytona models feature natural mother-of-pearl dials accentuated with eight diamonds and three Chromalight hour markers. Crafted in 18K white gold, both models are crowned with a bezel adorned with 36 brilliant-cut diamonds.

One version showcases a white mother-of-pearl dial with chronograph counters in black mother-of-pearl, while the other has a black mother-of-pearl dial with white mother-of-pearl counters.

Creating these dials involves meticulous positioning of the nacre discs to optimise the colour intensity of each mother-of-pearl variant, enhancing the contrast. Each watch is a testament to artistry and engineering, reflecting the balance of form and function.

TECHNICAL MASTERY

The Cosmograph Daytona is powered by the calibre 4131, a chronograph movement developed and manufactured by Rolex. Introduced in 2023, this advanced movement incorporates a reduced number of components, enhancing its reliability. The robust mechanism features a column wheel and vertical clutch, allowing for instantaneous, precise starts.

Calibre 4131 is powered by the energy-efficient and dependable Chronergy escapement. Made from nickel-phosphorus, this escapement is resistant to strong magnetic fields. Additionally, the movement is fitted with a blue Parachrom hairspring, crafted from a paramagnetic alloy that provides stability against temperature variations and high resistance to shocks. The oscillator is mounted on high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, boosting the movement’s shock resistance.

With its efficient barrel architecture and superior escapement, calibre 4131 offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.

EXCEPTIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP

Crafted from a solid block of 18K white gold, the 40mm Oyster case of the Cosmograph Daytona is robust, durable and waterproof to a depth of 100m. The case back is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that only Rolex watchmakers can operate, safeguarding the intricate movement within.

Fitted with a triple waterproofness system and protected by an integral crown guard, the Triplock winding crown screws down securely against the case, alongside the chronograph pushers. Enhanced with an anti-reflective coating, the virtually scratchproof sapphire crystal guarantees clarity and protection.

EMBODYING ELEGANCE

The new Cosmograph Daytona models are available in two distinct bracelet options. The first variant, featuring a white mother-of-pearl dial, comes with the Oysterflex bracelet. This bracelet comprises two flexible, curved metal blades over-moulded with high-performance black elastomer. The second variant, with a black mother-of-pearl dial, is mounted on an Oyster bracelet, well known for its robustness.

The Oysterflex bracelet includes the Rolex Glidelock extension system, an inventive mechanism that allows for easy adjustments of up to 15mm without the need for tools. The Oyster bracelet features the Easylink comfort extension link, enabling the wearer to effortlessly lengthen the bracelet by about 5mm. Additionally, the new version of the Cosmograph Daytona includes Rolex-designed and patented ceramic inserts within the links to enhance flexibility, comfort and longevity.

SEAL OF EXCELLENCE

While every Rolex timepiece earns the official certification of its movement by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), Rolex’s in-house Superlative Chronometer designation, signified by the iconic green seal, goes a step further.

This rigorous testing subjects fully assembled watches, including the new Cosmograph Daytona, to a battery of stringent evaluations. With a precision tolerance of only -2/+2 seconds per day, Rolex’s standards exceed those required for COSC certification. This dedication to quality is further underscored by a five-year international guarantee.

Find out more about the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona and other new 2024 Rolex watches at Kee Hing Hung.