Rolex is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race with an original version of its legendary chronograph. The 40 mm case is crafted in 18K white gold, the black Cerachrom bezel features the number ‘100’ in red on the tachymetric scale, evoking the race’s centenary. This new Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 100th Anniversary 24 Hours of Le Mans ref. 126529LN is equipped with an exclusive movement, calibre 4132, which is a 24-hour chronograph instead of the model’s usual twelve.
This movement incorporates the Chronergy escapement, Paraflex shock absorbers, and bridges decorated with Rolex Côtes de Genève. The cut-out oscillating weight in 18K yellow gold is fitted with an optimized ball bearing. Like all Rolex watches, this special version of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist. To make things more interesting the watch is fitted with a display case back that allows full view of the movement.
A key part of the model’s identity is the bezel moulded with a tachymetric scale for measuring average speeds of up to 400 miles or kilometers per hour. Blending high technology with sleek aesthetics, the black bezel is reminiscent of the 1965 model that was fitted with a black Plexiglas bezel insert. On this original edition, the number 100 in red ceramic is a homage to the centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
The monobloc Cerachrom bezel in high-tech ceramic is corrosion resistant, virtually scratch-proof and the color is unaffected by UV rays. This extremely durable bezel also offers an exceptionally legible tachymetric scale, thanks to the deposition of a thin layer of platinum in the numerals —apart from the number 100, which is filled with red ceramic— and graduations via a PVD process. The monobloc Cerachrom bezel is made in a single piece and holds the crystal firmly in place on the middle case, ensuring waterproofness.
This model features a bright black and intense white dial with snailed counters, gold applique hour markers and hands with a Chromalight display, a highly-legible luminescent material. The dial’s graphic design is inspired by the ‘Paul Newman’ Rolex dials from the past. The central sweep seconds hand allows an accurate reading of 1/8 second, while the two counters on the dial display the elapsed time in hours and minutes.
Sticker Price $51,400 USD. For more info on Rolex click here.
