Rolex Daytona 126518 LN with turquoise blue lacquer dial

0 0 Sunday, 6 April 2025 Edit this post

One of the Rolex novelties that stood out to us at Watches and Wonders 2025 is the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona 126518LN, a fresh take on the iconic chronograph, featuring a striking turquoise blue and black dial.

Rolex Daytona 126518 LN with turquoise blue lacquer dial

Crafted in 18 ct yellow gold, this reference is crowned with a black Cerachrom bezel showcasing the celebrated tachymetric scale, marking the close connection to the world of motorsport. Its recessed graduations, numerals, and inscriptions are moulded and then, via a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) process, coated with a thin layer of yellow gold.

Measuring 40 mm x 11.90 mm, the Oyster case of the Cosmograph Daytona is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres / 330 feet. Its case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool employed by approved watchmakers.

The screw-down Triplock winding crown is fitted with a triple waterproofness system and protected by crown guards integrated into the case. The crystal is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from an anti-reflective coating.

The black snailed counters stand out against the turquoise blue lacquer dial. The 18 ct gold applied hour markers and the hour and minute hands are filled with luminescent material that glows blue in low-light conditions, enhancing readability.

The solid case back safeguards the Calibre 4131, which debuted in 2023 with the latest Rolex Daytona generation. Operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), this chronograph movement features a column wheel and vertical clutch.

It also incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement made from nickel-phosphorous for enhanced magnetic resistance, as well as a blue Parachrom hairspring and Rolex overcoil to maintain consistent performance in any position. The oscillator is mounted on Paraflex shock absorbers for added robustness.

Thanks to its barrel architecture and the escapement’s high efficiency, the power reserve of Calibre 4131 extends to around 72 hours. As a Rolex Superlative Chronometer, the new Daytona's precision is within −2/+2 seconds per day, a tolerance far stricter than the COSC standard for movement certification.

The new reference 126518LN is fitted on an Oysterflex bracelet, made up of two flexible, curved metal blades overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer.

The Oysterlock folding safety clasp prevents accidental opening while the Rolex Glidelock extension system has a rack located under the clasp cover with six notches of approximately 2.5 mm, allowing the length of the bracelet to be effortlessly adjusted up to 15 mm.