Julie Jølsen - June 2023

Introducing the Remarkable Rolex Daytona Le Mans: A Must-Have for Watch Enthusiasts

Daytona Le Mans 126529LN - Photo credit: Rolex

Rolex enthusiasts, prepare to be astonished! The legendary watchmaker recently unveiled an extraordinary timepiece, the Daytona Le Mans 126529LN, in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the illustrious 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. Rolex, serving as the Official Timepiece of the event since 2001, rarely releases special edition watches, making this announcement even more exceptional. Join us as we delve into the captivating features and remarkable details of the latest addition to the esteemed Rolex Daytona lineup.

Just a few months ago, Rolex wowed the horology world with a refresh of the entire Daytona collection at the prestigious Watches & Wonders 2023. The reimagined series boasted new movements, subtle case redesigns, captivating dials, and bezels. The platinum variant even received a display caseback, showcasing its exquisite inner workings.

The Daytona Le Mans 126529LN

Now, allow us to introduce the star of the show—the Daytona Le Mans 126529LN, the newest reference in the new-generation collection. Encased in 40mm of elegant white gold, this timepiece flaunts a sleek black Cerachrom ceramic bezel. Uniquely, the ceramic bezel features a red ceramic rendering of the number "100" on the tachymeter scale, highlighting its association with the centenary of the Le Mans race. To frame this striking bezel, Rolex has adorned it with a white gold ring.

Unveiling the unseen

While the front of the watch mesmerizes with its dial and bezel, the back unveils another surprise—a transparent sapphire caseback. Peering through this window, one discovers the never-before-seen Caliber 4132 automatic chronograph movement. This new-gen movement adds an exciting twist to the Daytona 126529LN by introducing a 24-hour chronograph counter, a subtle nod to the Le Mans race. This remarkable functionality is made possible by a patented mechanism comprising seven components, a testament to Rolex's innovation.

Photo credit: Rolex

Exceptional Craftsmanship

Caliber 4132, in addition to its new features, boasts impressive finishes and decorations. Adorned with Rolex Côtes de Genève on the bridges and an 18k yellow gold skeletonized rotor, this movement also offers a 72-hour power reserve. True to Rolex's commitment to excellence, the Daytona Le Mans is a Rolex Superlative Chronometer, showcasing an astonishing accuracy rating of −2/+2 seconds per day.

Bracelet details

The Daytona 126529LN comes paired with a matching 18k Oyster bracelet, accentuated by an Oysterlock folding safety clasp. Rolex has included ceramic inserts in the bracelet links to enhance durability and prevent stretching over time. Notably, this is the only current white gold Daytona with a ceramic bezel that features an Oyster bracelet. Other white gold Daytona watches with ceramic bezels are equipped with rubber Oysterflex bracelets, while white gold Daytona watches with Oyster bracelets typically have white gold bezels.

Photo credit: Rolex

An Investment Worth While

Now, the question on everyone's mind—what is the price of this exquisite timepiece? The Daytona Le Mans 126529LN comes with a retail price of $51,400, making it the most expensive white gold variant in the current collection. 

Despite its already substantial price tag, we anticipate that the Daytona Le Mans will command even higher prices on the secondary market due to its exclusivity and desirability. For discerning collectors and watch enthusiasts, this exceptional Rolex Daytona chronograph is a must-have, representing the pinnacle of luxury and horological craftsmanship.

Looking for a Daytona? Take a look at our selection of Daytonas here.