A look at Rolex’s new precious metal Daytona line: Now with Oysterflex

Introduced in 1963, the Daytona chronograph was made to meet the demanding requirements of racing drivers. A favorite among fans of beautiful mechanics, the reference quickly earned a track reputation on the wrists of the most outstanding drivers. Just like all true icons, it must evolve if it’s to keep its status. Indeed, the chronograph is universally appreciated for its accuracy, robustness, endurance and the fact that it is instantly identifiable.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116518LN

Leading the race

It goes without saying that to keep up with a competitive market it is key to be the one who sets the pace.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116518LN

In this case, the three new versions of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona model are available in yellow, white and Everose gold and they all feature a black ceramic monobloc Cerachrom bezel engraved with a tachometer scale. Equipped with these features, the pieces are more powerful as well as more visually striking. I find the bezel increases the model's natural masculinity by a factor of ten. It is also a reference to the past, as it was inspired by a 1965 model which had a black inner insert on a plexiglas bezel

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116518LN

The numerals have been engraved by means of a thin gold or platinum layer using PVD (Physical Vapor Depositions). As a result, they are the same color as the case. Like all Daytona mode, the piece is water resistant to 100 meters and, like all other Rolex watches, it is equipped with a "Chronomètre Superlatif" certificate that guarantees COSC acuracy (-2 to +2 seconds per day). The 4130 caliber provides a 72-hour power reserve and comes with a traditional blue Parachrom balance-spring.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116518LN

Taking on a sportier look

However, the most significant change in the famous Daytona is the strap. Usually available with leather or gold bracelets, this year it has been introduced in a new and particularly contemporary configuration that is likely to appeal to a younger audience. The piece now features the famous Oysterflex strap that was first launched on the Yacht-Master in 2015. Developed and patented by Rolex, the smooth strap was designed to guarantee the robustness and reliability offered by metal straps. To achieve that, the engineers of Rolex’s R&D department designed thin metallic blades in a nickel and titanium alloy, overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer. 

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116518LN

To make sure that the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona chronograph followed the wrist's movements without being cumbersome, Rolex used a patented "cushion" system on the inner side of the straps.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116518LN

Reliable at all times, the snug and tear-proof strap is available in several sizes to adapt to all wrists. It comes with an either yellow, white or Everose gold Oysterlock safety clasp, which is equipped with the Easylink extension system that enables the wearer to easily adjust the strap's length by approximately 5 mm.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116518LN

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