Rolex “Rainbow”: The Daytona Adorned with the Brilliance of a Rainbow
When it comes to Rolex, it’s a luxury watch brand known even to those who aren’t watch enthusiasts. Among them, there is a model that stands out. It is the Cosmograph Daytona, known by the nickname “Rainbow,” with a bezel set with rainbow-colored sapphires.
“Rainbow” is a nickname given by collectors and is not an official Rolex name .
In this article, we will take a closer look at this “Rainbow” Daytona, from its historical background and features to its market value.
History of the Rainbow Daytona
The history of the “Rainbow” Daytona dates back to the Ref. 116598RBOW and Ref. 116599RBOW, which were announced in 2012 . These models were made of white gold and yellow gold, and featured a novel design with 36 rainbow-colored sapphires set on the bezel, setting them apart from previous Daytona designs.
Ref. 116598RBOW
The introduction of this model was part of Rolex’s strategy to fuse high-end watches with unique aesthetics , and it was a response to the growing demand for watches with luxurious jeweled decorations.
Ref. 116599RBOW
Initially, there were some opinions that it was “too flashy” , but it later gained popularity after being worn by celebrities such as John Mayer and Mark Wahlberg .
In 2018, the Everose gold Ref. 116595RBOW was announced . Unlike the white gold and yellow gold models, this one features a pink gold case and bracelet, “pink gold crystal” subdials, and color sapphires for the indexes .
Evolution of the Rainbow Daytona
The “Rainbow” Daytona has undergone several evolutions since its introduction in 2012.
| Year | Material | Bezel | Dial | Indexes | Bracelet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 18K white gold, 18K yellow gold | 36 baguette-cut sapphires set in gradation | Black lacquer dial | Diamonds | Oyster bracelet |
| 2018 | 18K Everose gold | 36 baguette-cut sapphires set in gradation | Black lacquer dial, diamond pavé dial | Color sapphires | Oyster bracelet, diamond-set President bracelet |
Features of the Rainbow Daytona
The “Rainbow” Daytona has the following features:
- Unique bezel: The most distinctive feature is the bezel set with 36 baguette-cut rainbow-colored sapphires in gradation .
- Case and bracelet: Made of 18K white gold, yellow gold, or Everose gold, combining durability and luxury .
- Movement: Equipped with the Rolex in-house Caliber 4130, a high-precision and reliable movement with automatic winding, chronograph function, and 72-hour power reserve .
- Dial: Adopts a color scheme that harmonizes with the bezel, and features chronograph subdials, date display, and luminous indexes . The Everose gold model has a “crystal gold” finish on the subdials, further enhancing its beauty .
- Bracelet: Available in two types, Oyster bracelet and diamond-set President bracelet, allowing you to choose according to the occasion .
- Water resistance: With 100m water resistance, it also has the practicality of a luxury sports watch .
Rolex has a history of “rainbow” jeweled decoration, such as setting the bezels of its Cellini models with multi-colored sapphires in gradation since the late 1970s .
Market Value of the Rainbow Daytona
Due to its rarity and craftsmanship, the “Rainbow” Daytona has a very high value in the luxury watch market.
- Production number: Rolex does not disclose the exact production number, but it is clear that only a very limited number have been produced due to the complex craftsmanship and gem selection .
- Retail price at the time: The Everose gold edition was sold for $96,900 during its production period, while the yellow gold and white gold editions were sold for $90,000 .
- Current price range: It varies depending on the model and market conditions, but it is generally traded at prices ranging from $200,000 to over $400,000 .
- Factors for price increase: Rolex’s brand power, the popularity of the Daytona, and the elaborate jeweled decoration are factors contributing to the high price .
| Model, Reference Number | Price (approx.) | Case |
|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Daytona, 116595RBOW | 770,000 USD | 18K Everose gold |
| Rainbow Daytona, 116599RBOW | 430,000 USD | 18K white gold |
| Rainbow Daytona, 116598RBOW | 350,000 USD | 18K yellow gold |
| Day-Date 36 Rainbow, 128345RBR | 81,000 USD | 18K Everose gold |
| Aftermarket model (basis: Daytona Ref. 116520) | 30,500 USD | Stainless steel |
Other Rainbow Models
The Daytona is not the only model with the nickname “Rainbow.” There is also a “Rainbow” model in the Day-Date 36 .
This model is made of 18K Everose gold and features a diamond pavé dial, diamond-set bezel, and diamond-set President bracelet. Ten baguette-cut rainbow-colored sapphires add a rainbow brilliance, as the name suggests.
The Allure of the Rainbow Daytona
Why is the “Rainbow” Daytona so captivating? The reasons can be summarized as follows:
- Unique design: The bezel adorned with rainbow-colored sapphires has an overwhelming presence unlike any other watch.
- Luxury and rarity: The “Rainbow” Daytona, born from luxurious materials and elaborate craftsmanship, is truly a watch worthy of being called a status symbol.
- Crystallization of Rolex’s technical capabilities: The “Rainbow” Daytona is a work of art created by the fusion of Rolex’s gem-setting technology and watchmaking technology .
The combination of these elements has made the “Rainbow” Daytona attract attention not only from watch enthusiasts but also from fashion-conscious people.
Conclusion
The Rolex “Rainbow” Daytona is, as its name suggests, a watch with a unique rainbow brilliance .Its history began in 2012, and it has undergone various evolutions in terms of materials, bezel, dial, indexes, and more.
Its features include a bezel set with 36 rainbow-colored sapphires, a luxurious case and bracelet, a high-precision movement, and a highly legible dial. Its market value is very high, trading from $200,000 to over $400,000.
The “Rainbow” Daytona can be said to be a timeless masterpiece that fuses Rolex’s technical capabilities and aesthetic sense.