Discontinued Cosmograph Daytona - 2021

Description

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116508 in 18ct yellow gold with green dial is one of the most visually arresting and collectible configurations in the modern Daytona catalogue — a watch that combines the most storied chronograph name in watchmaking with a dial colour of extraordinary character and a precious metal case of uncompromising quality.

The green dial is a remarkable surface: a rich, deep emerald tone with a sunburst finish that radiates from the centre with a shifting, almost lacquer-like depth, set against three black sub-dials — the 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, the 12-hour counter at 9 o'clock, and the small seconds at 6 o'clock — creating a colour combination of genuine visual drama that few watches at any price can match. Applied yellow gold hour markers and chronograph hands of exceptional quality complete a dial of considered, confident design.

The 40mm 18ct yellow gold case carries the Daytona's characteristic pushers and tri-compax dial layout with the unhurried authority that only solid gold delivers, while the yellow gold bezel with its engraved tachymeter scale adds texture and instrument-quality purposefulness to a watch that is as much an object of desire as it is a precision timing instrument.

 The Oyster bracelet in 18ct yellow gold — with its characteristic flat three-piece links — is one of the finest gold bracelets in production watchmaking, secured by the Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension. The ref. 116508 was discontinued in 2023, adding a further dimension of scarcity and desirability to an already compelling reference.

 Powering the watch is the legendary in-house Calibre 4130 — column-wheel chronograph, vertical clutch, blue Parachrom hairspring, 44 jewels, and a 72-hour power reserve — one of the most accomplished chronograph movements in the history of the craft. This is a 2021 example in mint condition, presented complete with original Rolex box and papers.

Specifications: