Rolex Cosmograph "Daytona" - History

The Rolex Cosmograph “Daytona” was introduced in 1960 as a true chronograph line. The Rolex Cosmograph “Daytona” has the ability to act as a stopwatch in addition to its normal duty of telling time. They are quicly distinguishable from other Rolex watches due to the increased number of markings on the bezel, the three tachymeter scales engraved on the face, as well as the two extra buttons on sides of the crown.

Early versions of the Rolex Daytona watches used movements from Valjoux, a Swiss watch movement firm.  The first model of the Cosmograph (6239) was released in 1960 which had the 72B movement (from Valjoux). Model number 6241 was produced in 1961, which had minor cosmetic changes to the bezel, still used the 72B movement from Valjoux.

The Rolex Cosmograph was certified to be waterproof at 50 meters in 1965 with the model 6240, this model is distinguishable due to the “Oyster” branding on the dial. In 1988 the model 16720 was released, named the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, and had a new movement called “EL Primero” from Zenith. This model was available in a number of different color and material combinations.

It was not until 2000 until the Rolex Daytona line received a movement created by Rolex.  

Rolex Daytona

Due to its accurate stopwatch feature, The Rolex Cosmograph soon became a star within automotive racing circles. This popularity lead to the Rolex Cosmograph receiving the nickname “Daytona”, after Daytona Beach in Florida.

Like the Rolex Submariner, the Rolex Daytona has its place in film history. Paul Newman is spotted wearing the Daytona throughout the movie as well as appearing on numerous posters and magazine covers for the movie “Winning”. While the exact model that he sports in the movie is not clear, it is likely the 6239 or the 6241 model with a contrasting black dial with silver registers.

Material and Color Combinations

The Rolex Daytona was available with either a black dial with silver registers, silver dial with black registers, black dial with white registers, or cream white with black registers.  Paul Newman’s choice in “Winning” was the black dial with white registers and this combination became known as the Paul Newman from then on. With the 16520 model, the Rolex Daytona was available as stainless steel, stainless steel with 18 karat yellow gold (two toned), or 18 karat yellow gold. Model 16518 was only available as 18 karat yellow gold, and all sported leather straps. Model 16519 was the first Rolex Daytona available in entirely white gold.