Dream Watch Daytona
I thought a lot about which Rolex model I would like to introduce first on Viver. A watch that everyone wants to wear on their wrist at least once in their life. Which model could it be?
Cosmograph Daytona
Ref. 116520
Even though it has been over 20 years since its release, The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116520 still receives great attention. Let me introduce this model to you.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona was born in 1963 for professional car racers. In the late 1980s, It was equipped with an automatic movement, Adding convenience and attracting even more attention.
Among them, The Daytona Ref. 116520, Released in 2000, Marked a significant milestone in the history of Rolex in many ways. What is the reason for the continued popularity of this model?
The First In-house Movement for Daytona
Cal. 4130
The previous model, Ref. 16520, Which established much of the Daytona design we see today, Originally used a movement from Zenith (El Primero). It was also called "Zenithtona".
For Rolex, Which even produces its own luminous materials and movement lubricants for perfection, It must have been a matter of pride.
ⓒ Rolex
Thanks to this, Rolex accelerated the development of its own chronograph movement and finally succeeded in producing it in 2000.
The Ref. 116520, Equipped with the Cal. 4130 movement, Was introduced.
With far fewer parts than previous chronographs, This movement greatly improved performance. Its high level of completion is proven by the fact that Cal. 4130 is still in use even after the release of its successor in 2022.
The Daytona Ref. 116520, Reborn with a modern design, Features a sleek case and a more durable Oyster bracelet.
The combination of the polished bezel, The center links of the bracelet, And the shine of the dial creates a brilliance that is one of Daytona's greatest charms.
Daytona 116520
40mm, Black, Oyster
A More Refined Design
Daytona has been released in various materials such as yellow gold, White gold, And Rolesor, But among them, The steel model made of 904L has received the most attention and love.
In the next generation, The so-called "Ceratonas" with ceramic bezels were released, So the affection of watch enthusiasts who prefer steel bezels is concentrated on this generation.
The dial was available in two colors, Black and white, And during the production period, The black dial was more popular. The phrase "Daytona is black" has become almost an official saying, Or perhaps a stereotype.
However, The strong demand from users looking for the slightly yellowish cream-colored white dial Daytona cannot be ignored.
Daytona 116520
40mm, White, Oyster
Ongoing Premium
Produced from 2000 for 16 years, This model has always maintained a premium except for a few price drops due to external factors.
Ironically, While it was immediately considered a premium model in overseas markets, The Korean market did not recognize its true value until the model was discontinued in 2016. Until the year it was discontinued, It was traded below retail price.
Currently, The price has risen sharply to over 30 million KRW, And especially for products produced in 2015-2016, The quantity is so small that it is difficult to even find them.
Viver Index
Even during the recent months when the resale price has been declining, You can see from the graph that the price of this product has hardly changed.
The Ref. 116520, Which held the throne of Rolex for 14 years, Was discontinued in 2016 and handed over its place to Ref. 116500LN, But it is still loved in the market. It is clear that this model has made a significant mark in the history of Rolex.
Daytona 116520
40mm, Black, Oyster
Samuel
Writer
Can talk about watches for 120 hours straight
