The new version of the Rolex Daytona, one of the most popular chronograph models in the world of watches, met watch lovers at the Watches & Wonders 2023 fair. The new Daytona, which hosts visual differences and technical improvements compared to the previous one, is under the spotlight with all its details.
After hundreds of thousands of articles written and drawn on the reputation of Rolex Daytona, now, we have a brand new one. I say brand new, but you better not raise your expectations too much as the current version got polarized comments from the world of watches.
Introduced in 2016 with a ceramic bezel update, the Daytona attracted great attention both in the Rolex family and in the world of watches. Bringing together the perfect case form, size, and technical superiority with watch lovers, the new version has earned a rightful place among the world's most admired chronograph models. For the new Daytona, which was introduced after 7 years, I find it more accurate to say that it has undergone superficial updates, rather than using assertive words such as evolution or revolution.
The new Daytona family is available in stainless steel, 18K yellow gold-steel, 18K yellow gold, 18K rose gold, 18K white gold, and platinum case options. Each version comes with its own unique dial and bracelet/strap options. However, you need a keen eye and extensive Rolex knowledge to be able to spot the updates.
Although the 40mm case diameter remained the same, it is a known fact that some proportions and dimensions have changed. This changes the feel of the watch on the wrist a little bit. At first glance, the ring made of the same material as the case surrounding the ceramic bezels draws attention. We see that the asymmetric case structure of the stainless steel models, which narrows on the side of the chronograph pushers, has been abandoned. We observe that the rings surrounding the chronograph sub-dials are getting thinner, while the arrow-shaped indices take on a more elegant shape. We add to our notes that the lugs are getting a little longer, and when we look at the case from the bottom, the under-lug form has also changed. Further thickening of the crown guards is also among the changes made. The end-link and the slightly reduced case thickness are also among the updates.
Replacing the 4130, known as one of the most successful chronograph calibers ever, the 4131 also stands out with its technical superiorities. According to the information we received from Rolex officials, these developments also include technical upgrades such as the rotor system with increased impact resistance and efficiency and the escapement system that is more successful in maintaining the balance amplitude when the chronograph is engaged. On the other hand, the platinum model is offered with a sapphire crystal display case back, which we are not accustomed to seeing on Rolex. In this way, all the beauty of the Caliber 4131 is revealed.
On the other hand, I am confused about the new Daytona. When I bring the old and new models side by side, I think that the old one looks newer. The 126XXX family was more elegant, more polite, and maybe more modest. Yes, it's a Daytona after all, but I couldn't quite understand why the characteristic details on the dial and bezel have become less noticeable. Besides, I can understand Rolex. One way or another, they needed to make some updates. Any intervention you make on a model that has already achieved perfection is risky. As a watch lover and Daytona fan, I thank Rolex for choosing to update this form rather than ruining it.
