In a celebratory nod to the 100th anniversary of the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans, Rolex has unveiled a special version of the modern Daytona. The new reference 126529LN is a testament to the deep-rooted connection between Rolex and motorsports, and it distinctly marries the past with the present.
The roots of Rolex’s affiliation with motorsport go back to 1930 when Sir Malcolm Campbell wore a Rolex Oyster while racing at Daytona Beach. Rolex has also been the official timekeeper of the 24 Hours of Le Mans since 2001 and has been associated with the Daytona International Speedway since its inception, marking an enduring legacy in long-distance road racing.
What makes the new Le Mans Daytona stand apart is its use of white gold for the case, a design choice further enhanced by a black ceramic tachymeter scale with a red “100” marking, symbolizing the race’s centenary. The case and bezel, both striking in 18k white gold, frame a reverse panda dial, a black dial with bright white sub-dials, paying homage to vintage Daytona 6263s and bringing back the exotic Paul Newman dial aesthetics.
Rolex introduced a novelty in the movement, too. It comes equipped with the newly crafted caliber 4132, an evolution of the recently launched 4131. This new mechanism was developed with a unique focus: to cater to a 24-hour endurance race like Le Mans. The previously launched 4131 movement’s maximum chronograph measure was only 12 hours, while the 4132 enhances this to a Le Mans-appropriate 24 hours. The added patented mechanism consisting of seven components ensures the 24-hour hand rotation with maximum precision without affecting the overall performance of the caliber.
The new Daytona is not only technically sophisticated but also visually appealing. With a display case back, the Rolex Côtes de Genève decoration, and a yellow gold rotor, it offers a glance into the intricate internal mechanisms, marrying aesthetics and engineering seamlessly.
This unique timepiece is presented on an 18k white gold Oyster bracelet with polished and satin-finished surfaces, adding to its elegance. It boasts of an Oysterlock folding safety clasp with Easylink comfort extension link for the wearer’s convenience.
This is a non-limited edition model and will be added to the permanent collection. The new Daytona 126529LN is priced at $51,400 or EUR 42,407 (excl. taxes), a symbol of Rolex’s enduring commitment to timekeeping precision and their longstanding association with motorsport. Also you might be interested to check a list of the most expensive Rolex ever sold or you can check a list of the most expensive watches ever.
