Among iconic wristwatches, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona sits at the top of the heap. Built to track the times of race-car drivers—hence the central chronograph hand, tachymetric bezel, and triple registers for logging laps and the like—it’s evolved into a bona fide grail that collectors pray they may someday acquire. You can thank Paul Newman for that. He cemented the watch’s legendary status when he famously wore one in the 1970s. Or put it down to the increased appreciation for purpose- built watches that balance form and function. Either way, folks want a shot at the Daytona. And lucky for them, they just got a new chance to grab the prize.
The Daytona turns 60 this year, and to mark the occasion, Rolex has introduced a series of anniversary watches in precious metals. The best and sportiest of the lot, for our money, is the yellow-gold version with a black Oysterflex bracelet. Of course, this being Rolex, the strap isn’t just any old rubber but a patented combination of black elastomer laid over two flexible metal blades, which gives it a longer life and a robust feel on the wrist. A Glidelock clasp allows the wearer to adjust the fit without tools. But the real reason to pay attention is the color combo, which recalls (albeit in reverse) one of the holiest of holy-grail Daytonas: the last Paul Newman “JPS” 6264 Daytona. The nickname was earned in the ’70s when fans noticed the resemblance to the striking black-and-gold livery of Lotus Formula 1 cars sponsored by the John Player Special cigarette brand. Whether this new watch will pick up a similar moniker remains to be seen. Our guess? It’s only a matter of time.
