Rolex Daytona
Your search for a Rolex Daytona has come to an end. Welcome to SwissTimepieces
A perfect synergy of accuracy, quality, and style, the Rolex Daytona is an icon for a reason.
Its signature chronograph function is unmatched across all luxury watches - and is just one of the reasons this model is part of our collection of esteemed Rolex timepieces.
We know that checking the time is just one of the many reasons to own a watch. When you have a watch from a prestigious brand, you become part of its legacy of horological excellence. With Rolex, you know your timepiece will be of the highest standard - with precision, comfort, and style to match.
Here at SwissTimepieces, our specially curated collection of Daytona models range from vintage to legendary designs.
There really is something for everyone, no matter your style.
With over 60 years of legacy, there's never been a greater time to buy, sell, or exchange your Rolex Daytona with SwissTimepieces. Available online or at our showroom in the Lake District, our friendly team is always on hand to help you.
Let's go back to the beginning: What's in a name?
This style of watch is sometimes known as Rolex Cosmograph Daytona and has a rich history that dates back to the 1930s.
Picture the scene: One of the world's fastest professional racing drivers, Sir Malcolm Campbell, wore a watch on the racetrack to time his speed. When, at the famous Daytona beach racetrack, he broke the speed record after reaching 272 miles per hour (mph) in his beloved Bluebird car, he did it with a Rolex on his wrist.
However, this wasn't the Daytona we know now.
Instead, it was one of Rolex's many pre-Daytona models. Florida's Daytona soon became the capital of racing and, in 1962, Rolex became the official timekeeper of Daytona International Speedway. To celebrate the gesture, in 1963, Rolex launched the Cosmograph - later dubbed 'Daytona'. This version of the timepiece had chronograph features as well as a tachymetric scale to meet the needs of racing drivers.
For the past 60 years, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona has remained notorious in the world of car racing but also has made a name for itself away from the race track.
A symbol of speed, style, and precision both on and off the track.
Sound like something you'd like? Our current collection has models that span the decades, from the original exotic dials to some of the latest looks. Can't see what you're after? Don't worry, our 'Coming Soon' page will keep you updated on our new pieces as they come in.
Paul Newman's Daytona: A league of its own
In his 1969 movie, Winning, Paul Newman is believed to be wearing a stainless steel Daytona.
From that moment, it was a love affair that would span the ages.
The famed actor became known for wearing what has now been dubbed the 'Paul Newman Daytona' and is one of the most coveted timepieces in the world. The iconic watch can be recognised for its exotic dial and art-deco-inspired numeral design.
These days, this style of Rolex Daytona is extremely rare, due to the design's limited production numbers. This was because, when the style was first released in the 1960s and 1970s, it was nowhere near as well received.
Classic design meets high functionality: the key features
Trends come and go, but style is forever.
There are various iterations of Paul Newman's Daytona and two of his Rolexes reached sky-high prices at auction recently. The actor specifically wore the 6239 - signified by its stainless steel bezel - but the model has numerous siblings, including:
- The 6241 - which is defined by either black, or even rarer white, acrylic bezel.
- The 6263 - featuring an Oyster label on the dial.
- The 6264 - again, this design features a black acrylic bezel.
- The 6265 - very similar to the 6263, but has a metallic bezel case.
- The 6262 - one of the rarest Daytonas, this model is designed with an improved calibre: the Valjoux 727.
Some of those models may feature a regular Daytona dial so, to be sure it is a Paul Newman Daytona, look out for the exotic dial feature. Although, it’s worth mentioning that some other models may come with this design of dial despite not being original to that watch.
At SwissTimepieces, every one of the watches we buy and sell come with fully authenticated boxes and papers to be sure they are true to their history. With us, you can be sure you’re getting the quality you deserve.
Discover our range of pre-loved Rolex Daytona watches today.
Function meets flair: The key features of the Daytona
There's a reason the Daytona is one of the most sought after timepieces in the world. The meticulous engineering and eye for detail signify the expert level of craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.
The Daytona is distinct from other Rolex watches as it is the only chronograph the Swiss watchmaker produces. You may be lured in by the design of Rolex's GMT or dive watches, but if you need chronograph functionality, the Daytona is your answer.
If you're still unsure which style of Rolex would be best for you, our friendly team is just a call away.
Chronographs: for racing reliability
The Daytona can be distinguished due to the three sub dials positioned at 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, and 9 o'clock. As to be expected from Rolex, these dials are not just there for aesthetic purposes, they have been engineered to enhance the wearer's life.
The dial at the 3 o'clock dial counts 30 minutes, 6 o'clock is a small second counter, and the 9 o'clock dial is a 12-hour counter. The reasoning for each dial goes back to Daytona's history, as it was believed that, with the one timepiece, race car drivers could accurately time their entire race.
The dials are operated by the watch's signature three push buttons, which are located on the right-hand side.
Accurate and admirable, the Daytona is ready for any adventure.
Tachymeter scale: for time tracking
Another hallmark feature of this iconic Rolex model is the fixed bezel finished with a tachymeter scale. When used alongside the chronograph, this scale can measure speed based on the time it took to travel over a fixed distance. Therefore, you can calculate your average speed.
Still being worn by A-listers today, the Daytona may be extremely desirable in the world of motorsports, but it is by no means exclusive to racing drivers.
Design: for overt opulence
With three generations of models - at least officially - the Daytona has had many facelifts since its conception. The timepiece is made with the highest quality metals, including:
- Stainless steel
- Yellow gold
- White gold
- Platinum
- Pink gold
- Oystersteel
Every new generation of the Daytona comes with new colourways on the bezel and watch face. Over the years, these illustrious timepieces have been nicknamed within the industry, such as Panda, Big Red, or Unicorn - to name a few.
Occasionally, Rolex will produce some extremely luxurious models, set with diamonds and other precious stones. Most notably, the Daytona was graced with the rainbow diamond and sapphire crystals on the dial and bezel.
No matter the metal or colourway, the Daytona's five circle design is recognisable anywhere. Explore our collection of iconic watches to be part of the legacy.
60th-anniversary Rolex Daytona models
To celebrate the timepiece's 60th anniversary, Rolex has launched five new models of the Daytona. Each of these new models features Rolex's patented Chronergy escapement: calibre 4131.
The pursuit of excellence is a never-ending race.
The calibre 4131 works similarly to the 4130, but with fewer components, which you can now see due to the platinum version of the model featuring a see-through back case. A first for the legendary brand.
The new models come in the typical metal finishes as well as new colourways for the brand, including icy blue and a rich chocolate brown. Some subtle shifts in the appearance of the dial, counter rings, and case give the timepiece a sleek look but still with a sporting edge to honour its history.
The Daytona we know and love, revamped for the modern man.
Unsure which of Rolex's Daytonas is right for you? Our expert team is here to help you - get in touch today.
Ready for an upgrade? Turn to SwissTimepieces to sell your pre-owned Rolex Daytona
Building a legacy takes time.
In a race with no competitors, owning a pre-loved Daytona is a horological experience like no other.
The second-hand market is the perfect way to find your watch a new home, but finding the right buyer can be a laborious process scattered with risks.
You need a trusted platform. SwissTimepieces is the solution.
With a plethora of experience in luxury timepieces, our expert team is renowned for excellence. We specialise in connecting our community of sellers and ardent collectors to make the process as effortless as possible. From a quote to match the accurate market value to secured payments, we are here to help you.
Plus, we are based right here in the UK's beautiful Lake District. Come and visit us in our showroom or have your watch collected, whatever is easiest for you.
Add your pre-loved Rolex Daytona to our bespoke collection. Sell your watch for the true market value today.
Your questions answered…
How much is a Rolex Daytona?
The price of pre-owned Rolex Daytonas can fluctuate due to various factors, such as age and reference. Throughout the 60 years of Daytona, there have been numerous special editions of the timepiece, which are more expensive than other less limited models.
Therefore, if you decide you would like the 6262 (only produced for one year in 1970), the Paul Newman, or the 6269 (a vintage model made in full 18 karat yellow gold), we advise you set aside a larger budget.
Here at SwissTimepieces, we pride ourselves in ensuring our customers get the best value possible for their purchase, and each of our watches is competitively priced. More often than not, we do not accept offers - however, we can provide you with a discount if you decide to pay via bank transfer.
Our team is always on hand to support you throughout your purchase - from your initial search all the way to your payment. Whether you have questions about specific Daytona models or want to part-exchange your watch, we're here to help.
How do I spot a fake Rolex Daytona?
We understand that the second-hand watch market can feel overwhelming. With so many models to choose from, it can be hard to know which is fake and which is the real deal.
At SwissTimepieces, each of our models are authenticated with boxes and papers to ensure your timepiece is a true part of horological history. We have a wide range of genuine Rolex Daytonas to explore - both online and in our Lake District showroom.
If your eye catches a different model or brand, no problem! Our bespoke collection includes numerous luxury watch brands, including Omega, Breitling, and Tudor, and our friendly team can support you with your purchase.
There really is no better place to find your new timepiece.
How much is a Rolex Daytona worth?
Rolex Daytonas are in a league of their own. For this reason, they can vary in price due to factors like age, if it has been worn, the design of the timepiece, and if the model in question was of limited production.
If you do decide to sell your Daytona, we will ensure your timepiece is competitively valued so you get the best price. On average, we offer our customers 10-15% more than our competitors. Plus, by selling through SwissTimepieces, your luxury watch is 100% insured, and your personal consultant will make sure you are kept up to date with your watch's journey.
With over eight years of experience, let us remove the risks and hassle involved in second-hand selling.
SwissTimepieces is the convenient way to sell your timepiece.