Rolex Daytona ‘116519’

Rolex Daytona ‘116519’

The Rolex Daytona 116519 from the year 2000 is a striking and luxurious version of Rolex’s legendary Cosmograph Daytona, crafted in solid 18k white gold. Unlike the more common stainless steel variants, this reference exudes understated elegance with a refined precious-metal case that gives it both weight and presence on the wrist. It features a 40mm Oyster case, water-resistant up to 100 meters, with polished lugs and a screw-down crown and chronograph pushers that emphasize its sport-luxury character.

Powering the watch is the in-house Rolex Caliber 4130 automatic chronograph movement, introduced around this period and known for its robustness, precision, and simplified yet efficient chronograph mechanism. The dial options vary, but many models from 2000 feature silver, black, or mother-of-pearl dials with contrasting sub-dials and 18k white gold hour markers, offering a blend of functionality and sophistication. The tachymeter bezel, engraved on a matching white gold surface, retains the Daytona’s racing heritage, designed to measure average speeds over a given distance.

Early versions of the 116519 were often paired with a black or brown leather strap secured by a white gold deployant clasp, enhancing the watch’s elegant yet sporty feel.