Cosmograph Daytona
The Cosmograph Daytona was entirely revisited in 2023 to incorporate our latest patented innovations.
Its movement was redesigned to improve performance in terms of precision, robustness and reliability. A certified Superlative Chronometer, the Cosmograph Daytona continues to be the benchmark for self-winding chronographs.
Calibre 4131 is a self-winding chronograph movement incorporating all the technological developments of its predecessor, calibre 4130, while enjoying some major improvements. Developed and manufactured by Rolex, the new high-performance movement includes two patented mechanisms: Paraflex shock absorbers, which protect the oscillator from impact, and the Chronergy escapement, which withstands high magnetic fields and significantly reduces energy loss. The self-winding mechanism is also more durable thanks to the optimized ball bearing in the Perpetual rotor. The movement has been given a new look, with its bridges sporting an exclusive Rolex Côtes de Genève decoration. Replete with innovative and patented technical solutions, calibre 4131 sets a new standard of excellence in robustness, reliability, efficiency and precision.
Calibre 4131 has also been adapted to equip versions of the Cosmograph Daytona created in honour of the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance motor race. Named calibre 4132, this movement allows the hours of the chronograph function to be counted over 24 hours – instead of the model’s usual 12 – by means of an additional, patented mechanism.
Since 1965, screw-down pushers have gradually replaced the non-screw-down versions of the original models, helping to further reinforce the waterproofness of the case. The pushers fulfil the start-stop and reset-to-zero functions of the chronograph and are perfectly integrated into the aesthetic harmony of the model. The sides of the slender Oyster cases are enhanced by the play of light obtained through polishing techniques that are constantly perfected. These subtle developments are testament to a perpetual quest for elegance.
A key part of the Cosmograph Daytona’s identity, the tachymetric scale is a graduation that allows average speeds of up to 400 kilometres or miles per hour to be determined via a central sweep seconds hand. The calculation is performed over a fixed distance of 1 kilometre or 1 mile. Since the birth of the Cosmograph in 1963, the tachymetric scale has been located on the bezel of the watch. On the versions created in honour of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the number '100' is filled with red ceramic. Each Cerachrom bezel also features edging crafted from the same metal as the case, a demonstration of redesigned aesthetics.
In addition to the Oyster bracelet, the 18 ct gold versions of the Cosmograph Daytona with a Cerachrom bezel are also 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. It is made up of two flexible curved metal blades – one in each bracelet section – overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer. For optimum comfort, the Oysterflex bracelet is equipped with cushions on its inner sides and an Oysterlock safety clasp to prevent accidental opening. Its length may be adjusted via the ingenious Rolex Glidelock extension system.
The Cosmograph Daytona is the ideal means to express your individuality. In addition to Oystersteel, it is also available in several precious metals – 18 ct yellow gold, white gold and Everose gold. These exclusive alloys are composed of 750‰ (thousandths) pure gold and secret blends of silver, copper and palladium. They are the result of many years of research and are all cast at the Rolex foundry. The Cosmograph Daytona also comes in 950 platinum versions, as well as versions in 18 ct white gold and yellow gold launched for the 24 Hours of Le Mans that reveal their calibre through a transparent sapphire case back. This allows the movement to highlight its redesigned aesthetic: the openwork oscillating weight is in 18 ct yellow gold and the bridges showcase the exclusive Rolex Côtes de Genève decoration. The Cosmograph Daytona is also a feat of jewellery craftsmanship, with precious versions featuring a gem-set bezel and dial.
