The Rolex Daytona story began in 1963, when the brand released its very first Daytona model. The watch was designed for racing drivers and featured a tachymeter scale on its bezel, which could be used to calculate average speed. Since then, the Daytona has become one of the most iconic and sought-after watches in the world. In 2016, Rolex refreshed the Daytona with a new steel model that featured a black ceramic bezel. The watch was an instant success, with many collectors and enthusiasts eager to get their hands on one.
1988, Rolex released a more modern version of the Daytona with an automatic Zenith “El Primero” modified movement. This updated version of the watch was available in three different versions: reference 16520 (steel), reference 16523 (in steel and gold), and reference 16528 (in yellow gold). The limited supply of the new Daytona helped the watch achieve a cult status.
In 2000, Rolex released a new Daytona with an in-house movement. This new 116500 series was even more sought-after than the previous models. In 2013, Rolex released the Daytona Cosmograph Platinum (reference 116506). Finally, in 2016, Rolex refreshed the Daytona with a new black ceramic bezel. This new 116500LN series is the latest and most sought-after version of the iconic watch.