Known for its reliable, over-engineered yet conventionally-styled sports watches, Rolex always find a way to surprise us.
The latest such example comes in the form of this outrageously opulent 18ct yellow gold Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona that was sneaked out with little fanfare at Baselworld.
Following hot on the heels of the Everose gold model last year with gem-set rainbow bezel, this new version offers a unique take on the celebrated racing chronograph.
The emblematic tachymetric scale is replaced with 36 trapeze-cut diamonds.
On the paved black lacquer dial, champagne-colour chronograph counters are intertwined with black lacquer and 243 individually-set diamonds.
Eight diamonds in 18 ct yellow gold settings mark the hours, while the Arabic numerals 15, 30 and 45, also in 18ct yellow gold, are set at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock respectively.
Standing in contrast to the overt lavishness of the bezel and dial, the watch is worn on the brand’s sporty Oysterflex strap, complete with Oysterlock folding safety clasp in 18 ct yellow gold and Easylink comfort extension link.
This is the iconic Rolex Daytona, just not as you know it.
