Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Rolex's racing chronograph. Manual-wind early models, Zenith-powered neo-vintage, then in-house from 2000.
Introduced
1963
Typical UK second-hand price
£15,000–£200,000+
Key references
| Reference | Notes |
|---|---|
| 6239 / 6263 | Vintage manual-wind; 'Paul Newman' exotic dials fetch record prices. |
| 16520 | Zenith El Primero-based movement, 1988–2000. |
| 116520 | First in-house calibre 4130, 2000–2016. |
| 116500LN / 126500LN | Ceramic bezel steel models. |
Collectible versions
Paul Newman dials, 16520 'Patrizzi' dials, and steel ceramic models.
What to check before buying
- Test chronograph start, stop and reset.
- Ask for the serial and reference numbers privately, never in public photos.
- Compare the dial, hands and bezel with official reference photos for that exact reference.
- Ask for the most recent service receipt and who carried it out.
- View in person where possible, or have an independent watchmaker inspect it before paying.
Serial number on Rolex: Older watches carry the serial between the lugs at 6 o'clock. From around 2005–2008 it moved to the rehaut (inner bezel ring), engraved and visible through the crystal.
Other Rolex models
Buying or selling a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona?
Browse live adverts or list yours — private members get their first advert free.