Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 18ct White Gold Racing Dial, 116509

We are proud to present this opulent 18ct white gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 'Racing Dial' for sale in fine condition, fully checked and authenticated in our accredited workshop. 

Emerging from the sporting timepieces of the early 1930s donned by Sir Malcolm Campbell, Rolex has forged a lasting connection with motor racing and speed. In the mid-1950s, Rolex introduced a watch featuring a telemeter and tachymeter scale on the dial, accompanied by three sub-dials for precise timing up to 12 hours. By 1963, the telemeter scale was removed, and the tachymeter found its place on the bezel, enhancing dial legibility and introducing the term 'Cosmograph' to the world. However, it wasn't until 1965 that the term 'Daytona' was officially associated with the model, a nod to Rolex's role as the official timekeeper of the racetrack. Subsequent models from this lineage have evolved into some of the most coveted, collectible, and valuable watches ever created. Their allure extends beyond the famed 'exotic' Paul Newman dials and the introduction of El Primero movements in the 1990s, drawing from the rich racing heritage of the collection and the exceptional quality of the watches themselves.

This version of the iconic chronograph, reference 116509, features a 40mm 18ct white gold Oyster case fitted with a polished bezel with engraved Tachymetric scale for measuring average speeds up to 400 mph/kmh. The black racing dial boasts polished Arab numeral indexes with matching luminous hands, alongside contrasting red split-second markers on the chapter ring for precise 1/8th-second timing. The triple sub-dials, black with red accents edges, enhance the dial's dynamic appearance, and above the 6 o'clock sub-dial, the red 'Daytona' text pays homage to the original models from the 1960s. The screw-down crown and pushers contribute to the watch's enhanced water resistance of 10atm (100m/330ft), with the timepiece equipped with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass to further protect the watch from everyday wear. It is powered by the automatic calibre 4130 chronograph mechanism and secured with a matching 18ct white gold Oyster link bracelet featuring the classic Oysterlock clasp.

Originally purchased in circa 2005 and in fine condition due to minor wear on the bezel, complete with its original Rolex inner and outer boxes, swing tag, seal, warranty booklet, instruction manual, translation booklet, calendar card and international warranty card. This watch is sold with our 12-month warranty from the date of purchase.