Rolex

By the eighties, one of Rolex's sports model lines was struggling. Unlike some of their best-selling designs like the Submariner or GMT-Master, this one would linger in shop windows for years, while its competition from the likes of Heuer proved extremely commercially successful. Thus in 1988 to celebrate its 25th anniversary, Rolex completely revamped their chronograph model, and the first automatic Daytona was born.

The new reference series 165XX still preserved the DNA of the outgoing four digit models, while refreshing the overall aesthetic to ensure that what left the factory was a totally new watch. At its heart was a heavily modified Zenith El Primero movement, famous for being the first ever Swiss automatic chronograph movement. Built around it was a chunkier and more durable case in keeping with the times, as well as a bold new dial. The new model line was a hit, and the Daytona has gone on to become one of the most desirable wristwatch families in the industry.

With the new reference family also came another feature that was previously mostly foreign to the Daytona: precious-stone-setting. The present sub-reference 16589 was specially introduced for this purpose, with the “8” designation indicating a precious-stone-set bezel. These bezels were offered in a variety of configurations, including brilliant-cut diamonds and baguette-cut gemstones, elevating the traditionally sport-oriented Daytona into one of the manufacture’s most luxurious and visually striking model lines. Made in very small quantities and paired with a diamond and sapphire-set dial to complete this dazzling configuration, the present Daytona is sure to attract both new and seasoned collectors.