Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 40mm 116520 Black Dial

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116520, enjoys a status and cult-like following that no other watch in the world can claim. The Daytona stainless steel models are particularly prized by collectors. Rolex sends each of their dealers a very limited number of the coveted stainless steel Daytona variants each year.

The Cosmograph became such an icon in the sport of auto racing, that during the late 1960s, the watch earned the nickname “Daytona” after the Daytona International Speedway. Rolex continues to be a very active sponsor in the world of auto racing.

The Daytona is designed to measure and calculate elapsed time and average speed via the chronograph registers on the dial and the graduated tachymeter bezel. The 40mm Oyster case and Triplock crown combine to provide the Daytona an impressive 100 meters (approximately 333 feet) of water resistance.

Rolex uses an innovative vertical friction coupling for engaging the column wheel functions. The chronograph second hand exhibits a smooth start and is free of the staggered movement so typical of other mechanical chronographs.

The 44 jewel movement oscillates at 28,800 bph has power reserve of 72 hours, and a total parts count of 201 components. The markers and hands are also painted with Superluminova to provide low-light visibility. And despite the highly polished finish, the tachymetric scale of the bezel remains reasonably easy to read, even in direct sunlight.

The Rolex Oyster style bracelet and flip-lock safety clasp are so well-designed that they’ve influenced how watches have been designed for decades.