Description
A modern interpretation of a true industry classic, the Rolex Daytona Platinum edition marks half a century of watchmaking history. Released in 2013 to mark the model’s 50th anniversary, the Rolex Daytona reference 116506 caused quite a stir among collectors upon its initial launch.
While the platinum Daytona met a lot of expectations (such as featuring a Cerachrom bezel and Rolex’s in-house Caliber 4130 chronograph movement), it also subverted them by making that ceramic bezel brown and crafting the entire watch and bracelet from the noblest of precious metals: solid 950 platinum.
Released in 2013, the Rolex Daytona Platinum reference 116506 marked the model’s 50th anniversary. It was and continues to be, a hugely prized yet controversial model. However, as is often the case with controversies of this nature, the dispute surrounding the “appropriateness” of platinum – a noble metal – being used as the casing material of Rolex’s most famous sports chronograph only serves to deepen its appeal to those that find the pairing comfortable.
Upon its release, the model – which features a strangely rich colorway for a sports chronograph of ice blue and chestnut brown – caused a stir due to its perceived niche appeal. However, Rolex was entirely unflustered. How mainstream did an all-platinum chronograph costing tens of thousands of dollars need to be?
The kind of customer Rolex was targeting no doubt relished the obvious discernment required to own such an opinion-splitting timepiece. It is, in short, an example of true luxury. In fact, it might well be the most luxurious non-stone-encrusted watch the most well-known luxury watch brand has ever produced.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of its legendary Daytona collection, Rolex had to create a piece worthy enough to commemorate the momentous occasion. And with the Cosmograph Daytona Platinum edition, they most certainly did. Full platinum construction, ice-blue dial, chestnut brown bezel – these are hardly the norm according to the existing Daytona design codes, yet it’s precisely the use of these elements that make the anniversary edition of the Daytona 116506 so special.
