Sameera Gamage 
A timeless icon evolves—Rolex introduces the latest Cosmograph Daytona, blending heritage with modern refinement. With a striking turquoise blue lacquer dial, bold gold accents, and cutting-edge movement, this new release cements the Daytona’s status as the ultimate luxury chronograph.
Rolex is always going to be a brand that everyone will have a close eye on during the opening day of Watches & Wonders. While I personally have to say last year’s releases from the brand were a little bit underwhelming, they have come out stronger this year, releasing a brand new timepiece and collection in the Land-Dweller, while also updating their current collection with new dials and material variations.
One collection that has undeniably stolen the spotlight is the Cosmograph Daytona. Rolex has introduced eight new models, each bringing something special to the table. From the stunning turquoise blue (Tiffany) lacquer dial in yellow gold to the ever-popular meteorite dial variations, and the much-talked-about “John Mayer 2.0” references, these timepieces will be among the most sought-after releases of the year. The addition of a chocolate dial Everose gold variant further solidifies the Daytona’s status as one of Rolex’s most desirable collections, blending heritage with modern refinement.
I was immediately drawn to the turquoise blue (Tiffany) blue dial when I first saw the collection (I’d imagine just like most other people!). The colour is reminiscent of Rolex’s previous turquoise or Tiffany blue colours, from the Oyster Perpetual released in 2020, the everose-gold Sky-Dweller in 2023 (although this was a darker shade), and the platinum Daytona in the ice blue dial. Rolex is using a similar colour to this platinum Daytona, but now encasing it yellow-gold with black counters and black bezel to provide some stunning contrasting effects.
Case Design
The turquoise blue and black Daytona (ref 126518LN) features Rolex’s signature 18ct yellow-gold case with a Cerachrom bezel. This model maintains the classic 40mm Oyster case, known for its robust construction and water resistance up to 100 meters. The case is polished to perfection, reflecting light beautifully while remaining highly durable for everyday wear.
One of the most striking features of this Daytona is the black Cerachrom bezel, which contrasts elegantly against the gold case. The tachymetric scale, an iconic element of the Daytona’s identity, remains prominently displayed on the bezel, done in gold lettering to nicely match the case, while reinforcing the timepiece’s status as a high-performance chronograph built for precision timing. This Cerachrom bezel in high-tech ceramic is reminiscent of the 1965 model that was fitted with a black Plexiglas bezel insert. With a mix of elegance and sportiness, this Daytona is as much a statement piece as it is a functional tool watch.
Dial Design
Of course, the dial is where this new Daytona truly stands out. The turquoise blue lacquer finish gives the watch a striking presence, reminiscent of the highly sought-after Tiffany blue dials seen in Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual lineup. The black sub-dials with the gold hands and white indications give the dial a nice contrast while simultaneously matching with the yellow-gold case. It also takes the dial back to the signature racing-inspired dials of vintage Daytonas.
The applied 18 ct yellow gold hour markers and hands, filled with Chromalight luminescent material, ensure that readability remains uninterrupted in all lighting conditions. The colour combination of this new Daytona with its gold, turquoise, and black creates a rich and refined aesthetic, making this one of the most eye-catching Daytona models in recent memory. Rolex’s attention to detail is evident in the flawless execution of the lacquer dial, which offers a smooth, glossy finish that changes dynamically under different lighting conditions.
Movement
The engine behind this latest Cosmograph Daytona is the Calibre 4131, Rolex’s latest-generation chronograph movement, which powers all modern Daytona models. This calibre was first introduced in 2023, building on the successful and legendary Calibre 4130 by enhancing the movement’s efficiency and overall performance. The Calibre 4131 movement features Rolex’s Chronergy escapement, which improves energy efficiency and a Parachrom hairspring, offering greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations.
The movement operates at a high-frequency of 4Hz (28,800 VpH) which ensures consistent accuracy, while the power reserve is at a decent 72 hours (3 days!). The Calibre 4131 movement is also Superlative Chronometer-certified, guaranteeing accuracy within ±2 seconds per day, far exceeding standard chronometer specifications.
Initial Thoughts
Rolex once again shows us why the Daytona is one of the most highly sought-after chronograph timepeices. The 2025 Cosmograph Daytona lineup pays homage to its legendary racing heritage and introduces bold new aesthetics that elevate the collection to new heights. The turquoise blue lacquer dial with 18k Osyter yellow gold case is an instant classic, seamlessly blending vintage inspiration with modern craftsmanship!
Specification: Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (Ref 126518LN-0014)
- Dimensions: 40mm x 11.9mm
- Case Material: Osyter 18k Yellow gold
- Dial: Turquoise blue and black. Highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence
- Movement: Calibre 4131 in-house
- Movement Frequency: 28,800VpH (4hZ)
- Movement Power reserve: Approx. 72 hours
- Water resistance: 100m (10 Bar)
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Bracelet/Strap: Osyterflex strap with folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system
