Rolex has unveiled a significant evolution of its iconic steel Cosmograph Daytona at Baselworld 2026. The new reference 116500LN, crafted from corrosion-resistant 904L steel, marks a substantial departure from its predecessor, most notably through its integrated black Cerachrom ceramic bezel – replacing the engraved metal version. While retaining the proven calibre 4130 movement, Rolex now subjects the Daytona to its stringent in-house Superlative Chronometer testing, guaranteeing remarkable accuracy within -2/+2 seconds per day. This certification elevates its precision beyond standard industry measures. Visually, the watch offers two compelling dial choices: a crisp white version featuring striking black “snailed” sub-dials, or a sophisticated black dial paired with elegant gray sub-dials. Let’s explore the details that define this refreshed legend. 
The defining upgrade is the monobloc Cerachrom bezel. Developed by Rolex, this exceptionally hard, scratch-proof ceramic not only modernizes the Daytona but also nods to its heritage, recalling the black plexiglass bezels of the 1965 originals. More crucially, it brings the Rolex Daytona in line with its ceramic-bezelled siblings like the Submariner and GMT-Master II. Beyond its resistance to scratches, Cerachrom possesses exceptional color stability, ensuring the deep black hue remains impervious to fading from ultraviolet light.
Rolex meticulously engineered the bezel’s legibility. The tachymeter scale graduations are moulded directly into the ceramic material before high-temperature firing at 1,500 degrees Celsius. Afterwards, a thin layer of platinum is deposited into the recessed markings via PVD. The result is exceptionally crisp, high-contrast numerals and markers that stand out brilliantly against the black ceramic background. The scale itself has been subtly refined, now gracefully curving to follow the dial’s contour, unlike the flatter numerals of the previous model. Functionally, this single-piece ceramic bezel also contributes to the replica watch’s robustness by securing the crystal firmly against the middle case, enhancing its 100-meter water resistance.
Powering this chronograph remains the self-winding calibre 4130, a testament to its enduring quality. However, Rolex now supplements its COSC Chronometer certification with its own, more demanding Superlative Chronometer standard. This rigorous in-house testing ensures the movement’s accuracy meets the exceptional -2/+2 seconds per day tolerance. Designed for reliability, the calibre 4130 features a reduced component count within its chronograph mechanism. Activation and reset are handled via screw-down pushers engaging a column wheel and vertical clutch, ensuring precise, instantaneous starts. While theoretically capable of 1/8th-second accuracy, the dial’s four notches between second markers limit practical reading to 1/4-second increments. 
At the heart of the movement lies Rolex’s patented blue Parachrom hairspring, crafted from a unique paramagnetic alloy. This innovation provides superior stability, maintaining precision even when exposed to magnetic fields, temperature fluctuations, or shocks – reportedly offering up to ten times greater resilience than traditional hairsprings. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), the calibre 4130 delivers a generous 72-hour power reserve, comfortably accommodating weekends off the wrist.
Rolex’s measured approach to evolution is evident; the outgoing Daytona design endured since 2000. The core Oyster case architecture remains a benchmark. Machined from a solid block of 904L steel, it guarantees 100-meter water resistance. The familiar, smooth case back continues its understated role, its very lack of ostentation reinforcing the watch’s confident identity.
The bracelet exemplifies Rolex’s dedication to quality. The 904L steel Oyster bracelet (Ref. 78590) features solid three-piece links, offering substantial comfort and presence. The interplay of polished center links against satin-finished outer links with polished edges achieves near-perfect harmony. Practicality is ensured by the secure Oysterlock folding clasp with Easylink, allowing 5mm of on-the-fly adjustment. Flanking the Triplock-equipped screw-down crown, the chronograph pushers maintain the case’s clean, functional symmetry.
While the Cerachrom bezel is transformative, the new dials profoundly shape the Daytona’s character. The white dial, with its bold black sub-dials, presents a classic, sporty “near-panda” aesthetic. Yet, the black dial variant emerges as a revelation in person. Its deep, glossy surface creates a seamless visual flow with the dark ceramic bezel, while the silver sub-dial rings provide exquisite contrast against the platinum-filled bezel markings. Both versions feature luminous 18ct white gold hour markers and hands. The essential spirit of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona remains powerfully intact, promising enduring appeal for years to come.























