HKWF’s selection of three best stainless steel Daytona references

The Rolex Daytona has been in vogue for over 2 decades, or even more for some earlier references. Earlier, we looked at how this particular ace of Rolex has evolved in time. In this episode, we will look at 3 best stainless steel Daytonas.

 

1.      Rolex Daytona 6263 – The “Paul Newman” Daytona with exotic dial

 

 

The legendary 6263 is on our list, and it always will and should on anyone’s list of favorite Daytonas. A Rolex 6263 Daytona with exotic dial is referred to as “the Paul Newman Daytona” as movie star Paul Newman used to wear it a lot when racing, and not racing. At 37mm, the 6263 has a very exquisite dial layout. It looks classic by any standard. The sub-dials are well placed with appropriate space and balance in between. The numerals on the sub-dials are exquisitely done. The chapter ring is another feature of an “exotic” dial. It matches the tachymeter on the bezel very well.

 



 

 

Other than that, the 6263 has red “Daytona” letters on the dial and features screw-down chronograph pushers. It is a must-have for any Daytona enthusiast and the prices at auctions have proved that.

 

2.      Rolex 116520 Daytona

 

The first automatic chronograph with an in-house Rolex movement - is it enough?

The 116520 has been in production since 2000 when it replaced the 16520 which had a modified Zenith movement. The 116520 is now out of production and it is replaced by the new ceramic Daytona 116500ln. However, it was a cult success by any means. The price of the 116520 had always been higher than the retail price. It was such a symbol of status that no other watches could, or can compare.

 

3.      Rolex 116500ln Daytona Ceramic

 

 

Rolex is good at solving problems. While the bezel of the 116520 was said to attract scratches easily, they have now put a ceramic bezel on the newest Daytona ref 116500ln. The new 116500ln is a stunner. The white dial version features the “panda” style dial similar to the legendary 6263. The best thing is that it has a ceramic bezel that is not easily scratched. Other details? The movement’s accuracy is now +2/-2 per day! As the successor of the 116520, it is going to be another cult success. Do get yours before it gets hard to find one.

HK Snob

PS The latest price of the Ref116500LN white is HKD$135,000 as of Today in Market of Hong Kong.