Rolex Daytona "Racing" 116509 White Gold automatic 40 mm circa 2005

Where it all begins

Highlight of the first speed records, Daytona Beach in Florida owes its fame to one man: Sir Malcolm Campbell. An automobile driver of English origin, the latter devoted a large part of his life to motor sports and became famous for his numerous records, particularly at the wheel of his car nicknamed "Bluebird", with which he set a new record at over 396 km/h. It is in this context of pushing back the frontiers of the possible that Sir Malcolm Campbell will be noticed by Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex, and that he will become ambassador of the brand. In 1962 the brand will become the official sponsor of the Daytona race...

The reference 116509

2023 marks 60 years of the Daytona model! Launched in 1963, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona is an icon and the "Holy Grail" of motorsport and watchmaking enthusiasts. Faithful to what made the success of the House of Rolex, its design has evolved by small touches over the years but it remains recognizable among all. But it was truly on March 23, 2000 at Baselword that the Daytona models entered a new era!

In fact, reference 116509 is part of the 116520 series, which above all marks the launch of the caliber 4130, a caliber entirely developed and manufactured by the brand. It differs from its predecessor "Zenith" by its dial. Indeed, the seconds counter present at 9 o'clock on the 16520 is placed at 6 o'clock on this new series.

But the reference 116509 is above all a real collector, especially in this configuration! Indeed, it is a model with a white gold Oyster case and bracelet, with a Fliplock clasp equipped with the Easylink system. We also find the very rare matte black "Racing" dial, with Arabic numerals instead of indexes! This dial has red details and writing, which accentuates the sporty side of this model. Finally, for the record, the sub-dials are the same matte black as the rest of the dial, allowing it to be distinguished from steel versions!

A manufacture chronograph caliber

This Daytona is equipped with the caliber 4130, a mechanical column-wheel chronograph movement with vertical clutch and automatic winding entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex.

The Package

This Cosmograph Daytona in white gold dates from 2005 according to its serial number and in very good condition. It will be delivered to you only in a LEPAGE case. This model has been authenticated by our Rolex approved watchmaker and as such benefits from the Lepage Vintage 1 year warranty. Benefit from a free engraving (case back) on simple request.