The Rolex Daytona Cosmograph was introduced to the market in 1963 just ten years after the expertly developed Submariner diving watch. The chronograph watch was named after the famous racetrack on Daytona Beach, Florida. Its popular design features an easily readable tachymeter scale which allows the wearer to calculate speeds in conjunction with the chronograph functions.

Popular Rolex Daytona watches are some of the brand’s most expensive. Paul Newman watches, for example, can reach astronomical prices on the pre-owned market. From robust stainless steel Daytona watches to all-gold designs, this collection is varied enough to appeal to watch wearers on a universal scale, hence its highly sought-after design. Whether you’re making use out of the Daytona watch from a practical point-of-view or wearing it to help you stand out from a crowd, this guide highlights some of the most popular models from the used and the new market.

The fact that stainless steel versions of the Rolex Daytona promise an anti-corrosive and incredibly robust casing, combined with a strong scratch-resistant sapphire glass lens, makes them appealing watches to own. Popular models from the past include the model number 16520 (produced in 1988) and the model number 116520 (which began production in 2000), but the ref 116500LN from Rolex’s current collection comes equipped with several innovative sporty features. A white chronograph dial is framed by a black Cerachrom ceramic bezel which not only guarantees better scratch resistance but also prevents fading to the bezel. An engraved tachymetric scale on the bezel will enable you to measure average speeds of up to 400 miles or km per hour. If you’re a racetrack driver or enjoy attending motorsport events, these features created in honor of Rolex’s rich motorsport heritage enable you to look stylish whilst making the most out of your watch on a functional level. The Calibre 4130 is made in-house at Rolex. It provides a 72-hour power reserve and comes equipped with a Paramagnetic Hairspring for overall enhanced mechanical efficiency.

Over the years two-tone Rolex Daytona Cosmograph watches have become more innovative and dynamic. Modern watches from the brand’s current line feature Oyster bracelets made from stainless steel with flecks of 18k yellow gold running through the middle links, as seen in the model ref 116503. These models are designed to be the ultimate timing tool for motorsport lovers and racing car drivers. The collection has been in manufacture for over 50 years – its chronograph of which is instantly recognizable amongst enthusiasts. This Rolex Daytona Cosmograph ref 116503 features an 18k yellow gold engraved tachymeter scale which opens up a dial with three chronograph counters trimmed in a yellow gold finish. Watches crafted from a mix of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold, like this one, are called Rolesor and feature an Oyster case made from a middle monobloc case and a screw-down caseback, ensuring the watch’s 100-meter water-resistant capability it effectively maintained.

Second-generation models of the Rolex Daytona Cosmograph in gold are particularly desirable. They remain popular because their designs are no longer in current production. Models like the 16509, 16518, and 16528 are particularly popular. The model ref 16509 is crafted from 18k white gold and 16528 is manufactured from the company’s 18k yellow gold. Either of these watches can fetch prices of up to $20,000. Current Rolex Daytona Cosmograph Gold watches include models like the 116519LN – an all 18k white gold case with a black monobloc Cerachrom bezel in ceramic and engraved tachymetric scale. The watch differs in aesthetics to other models from the Daytona collection and is fitted with a black rubber strap equipped with a robust folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link. This innovative feature will allow the band to fit over heavy driving gear. Powered by the 4130 Calibre, this watch will keep precise time for up to 72 hours off the wrist.

Some Rolex Daytona watches sell for extremely high prices – particularly those from the Paul Newman line which can reach well into the hundreds of thousands. Although these are expensive due to their rarity, their designs are incredibly popular and sought-after. The Rolex Daytona Paul Newman 6262 model is almost identical to the even rarer 6239, except for its different caliber. It is powered by the Valjoux 727 which evolved from the Valjoux 722. The Paul Newman ref 6262 with a standard dial as opposed to the exotic dial, will sell for around $49,000. The 37mm model features a Plexiglass lens and goes without the baton index track. If you’re in the second-hand market and looking for an iconic timepiece that will serve as a statement on the wrist as well as an investment piece for the future – a Paul Newman Dayton watch is well worth its price tag.

The Rolex Daytona Cosmograph 6263 has a lot to offer in its compact, 37mm robust steel case design. It features a panda dial with a trio of black-filled chronograph counters dressed against a silver baton dial. Models like this Rolex watch ref 6263 that date back to 1974 feature lume plots around the hour track that assist with effortless timekeeping during the nighttime or in light-limiting conditions. If pre-owned Rolex watches are your thing, you’ll agree that the price tag for second hand Rolex Daytona Cosmograph watches like this 6263 model are well worth the investment. They stand a good chance of retaining their value or appreciating over time compared to other luxury sports watches on the market. This Rolex Daytona 6263 watch is versatile enough to wear every day of the week and sporty enough to pair with casual attire at the weekend.

To find out more about which Rolex hold their value you can read more of our guides where we cover all Rolex Nicknames or our classic guide to the Day Date models and our comparision with their sister brand: Rolex vs Tudor.

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