Daytona

About

The Rolex Daytona is a legendary chronograph watch known for its racing heritage and association with iconic figures like Paul Newman. Introduced in 1963, it was originally called the Cosmograph, later adopting the Daytona name to appeal to the American market. The watch features a tachymeter bezel, allowing drivers to calculate speeds, making it a staple in the racing world. Early models, such as the Reference 6239, were manual-winding and featured a compact 37.5mm case. The Daytona's popularity soared with Paul Newman's endorsement, particularly the "Paul Newman" dial variant. In 1988, Rolex updated the Daytona with an automatic movement based on the Zenith El Primero, increasing the case size to 40mm. This transition marked a significant shift from manual to automatic chronographs. Today, the Daytona remains a symbol of speed and style, available in various materials and configurations, cementing its status as a timeless classic in the world of horology.