As one of the most popular and highly coveted watch brands in the world, Rolex is renowned for its quality features, fine craftsmanship, and the different functions of each model that is released. The Rolex Daytona is a sports watch which was designed and released with motorsports in mind – with the three dials on the watch face allowing users to monitor and track the time elapsed via its stopwatch feature as well as check the real-time with the watch hands.
This article focuses on one particular Daytona model – the 116506 – as we look at the difference between this and other Rolex Daytona watches.
History of the Rolex Daytona
The Rolex Daytona was first released in 1963 and was originally called the Rolex Chronograph owing to its time-tracking function before it was rebranded as the Daytona (with the name inspired by the Florida race track).
In terms of its history and popularity as a model, ever since the 1963 rebrand and launch of this as a dedicated sports watch, the Rolex Daytona has taken on a coveted status and is now regarded as one of the most popular and stylish watches in the Rolex collection.
The model we are focussing on in this article and review is the 116506, which was released in 2013 as a way to mark the 50th anniversary of the Daytona model and was the first Daytona watch that Rolex made using a platinum finish.
What makes this Rolex Daytona 116506 so unique?
As mentioned in the previous section, one of the most notable features of this particular model of Rolex Daytona is the use of platinum which previously had not been used for a Daytona watch.
The watch boasts a diameter of 40mm and a thickness of 12.2mm, with other reviews citing its weight as a contributing factor towards the feel of luxury and quality on their wrist. The exterior of the watch is made entirely from platinum with a rich chestnut brown bezel surrounding the watch face and the three internal dials – creating a framing around each individual timekeeping element and allowing the features of the watch to pop.
In addition to the silver platinum outside, the watch face takes on a similarly cool hue with the icy blue colour – complimenting the silver and creating a timeless aesthetic which makes this watch suitable for all seasons and wearers. In fact, this icy blue watch face is a feature which Rolex only presents on their platinum Day-Date, and Daytona models – making it a unique feature that is rarely found available on the market and only across those specific models.
Finally, to the clasp, which is a three-piece oyster bracelet catch and is made entirely from platinum, and the red Daytona logo which sits just above the seconds point at 6 o’clock on the watch face.
How are the other Rolex Daytona models different?
To compare this Rolex Daytona with other models in the Daytona collection, one of the most obvious differences lies in the colour palette and the way the different colours interact and create an unforgettable finish. The pairing of the ice blue watch face with the ceramic chestnut brown bezel and frame around the three small dials creates a juxtaposing warmth and icy hue – something which is not seen in any other Daytona model.
The other difference between the 116506 model and other Daytona watches is the box it comes in, with this particular watch coming in a much larger green Rolex box. This presents an extra element of grandeur and status and boasts a series of extra compartments to store extra links and other accessories to complete your look – giving the Daytona 116506 added luxury status to celebrate the collection’s 50th anniversary.
How expensive is this Rolex Daytona 116506 model?
The Rolex Daytona 116506 model retails for just under £60,000, with preloved pieces typically fetching over £100,000 at auction and through secondary sellers like Love Luxury. This demonstrates the vast investment value of the model as a collector’s item or high-return investment piece.
Celebrities that wear Rolex Daytona watches
Of course, it’s not just investment buyers who favour the Rolex Daytona and other Rolex collections, with celebrities also known for wearing Daytona watches out and about.
Some of the well-known names spotted wearing this collection of watches include:
- Sofia Vergara, who wears a Daytona
- Drew Barrymore
- Jason Statham, who owns a few Rolexes including a Daytona
- Kylie Jenner
How to get a Rolex Daytona 116506
The reason why the Rolex Daytona 116506 commands such high prices on the secondary market is because of its coveted status and the exclusivity which surrounds it in the market. Everything from the exclusive use of platinum to the rare icy blue watch face, the warm brown details, and the impressive Rolex box, make this an anniversary watch with a difference – and as such finding and getting your hands on one is difficult.
Here at Love Luxury, we are lucky to occasionally have such high-demand pieces like this in our store, but you can also try other auction sites and secondary markets or join the waitlist at retail stores.
Is it worth investing in a Rolex watch?
The Rolex Daytona 116506 is a stylish, wearable, and high-value Rolex watch which exceeds expectations and takes the epitome of luxury watches to a new level. In terms of an investment, this piece is not only immensely popular but also retains and increases its value on the secondary market, meaning that with the right authentication and valuation you will see your investment skyrocket over time.
Our valuation and authentication service helps to ensure that you get the right advice and the right price for your Rolex watch, as we unite buyers with the pieces they want and help sellers to ensure they get what they are owed in exchange for the finest, luxury timepieces and accessories.
