Last year, Rolex introduced the new Cosmograph Daytona collection, which featured a slightly more refined design than its predecessor and was met with great praise. This year, The Crown cranks up the bling with two diamond-set models with mother-of-pearl dials. While that may sound super flashy, these new models show wonderful restraint for a pair of gem-set Rolex Daytonas. Let’s find out more.

The story of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 126589RBR

As mentioned, we get two versions of the Cosmograph Daytona ref. 126589RBR. There are some notable differences between the two. The first model is the full white gold version with a black mother-of-pearl dial, white mother-of-pearl sub-dials, and diamond-set hour markers. This one comes on a white gold Oyster bracelet.

The second model turns the color scheme around with a white mother-of-pearl dial with black mother-of-pearl sub-dials, but it also features diamond-set indices. On top of that, this second model comes fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet with a white gold folding clasp featuring the Rolex Glidelock extension system. Lastly, both variants feature a bezel set with 36 brilliant-cut diamonds.

Looking at these two new Daytona introductions, I would say the gem-set Daytona made a return in great style. While the previous gem-set versions of the brand’s popular chronograph have always had a flashy, flamboyant presence, I think these two new models show a welcome restraint (comparatively speaking, of course). Sure, the watches are anything but modest, but put into context, the refinement is rather striking.

The specs of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 126589RBR

Let’s go over both watches in detail. Both new Cosmograph Daytona models come with the familiar Daytona case in 18K white gold. The case measures 40mm in diameter, 11.9mm in thickness, 46mm in length, and 20mm between the lugs. The white gold bezel with 36 brilliant-cut diamonds and the striking mother-of-pearl dials make these two watches look stunning. The combination of materials and colors is far less extravagant than expected.

The Rolex in-house caliber 4131 is inside the case of both watches. This chronometer-certified automatic chronograph movement was introduced last year and has an accuracy of ±2 seconds per day. The caliber operates at 28,800vph, has 44 jewels, and offers a 72-hour power reserve. Additionally, it features a Chronergy escapement, Paraflex shock absorbers, and optimized ball bearings. The movement also features bridges decorated with Rolex Côtes de Genève and a skeletonized oscillating weight.

Final thoughts on the new Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 126589RBR

By now, you know I love what Rolex has done with these two new gem-set Daytonas. In the past, hearing “gem-set Daytona” would immediately lead to mental images of gaudy versions of the brand’s popular chronograph. While these new versions are anything but humble, they have a presence that is far less extravagant than you (or at least I) would expect. As a result, I love what Rolex has come up with for these new models.

Additionally, that black mother-of-pearl dial looks amazing. The dial’s color and texture are striking, and I can’t wait to see it in the metal as it will be so much more impressive than in the press images. Regarding pricing, the model with the black mother-of-pearl dial on the Oyster bracelet is available for €72,800, and the model with the white mother-of-pearl dial on the black Oysterflex bracelet is available for €63,850. Whichever you pick, you get in return is a striking new version of the Rolex Daytona.

Visit the official Rolex site for more on these new Cosmograph Daytona models. Let us know your thoughts on these watches in the comments section too.

Watch specifications

Brand
Model
Cosmograph Daytona
Reference
126589RBR
Dial
Black mother-of pearl with white sub-dials or white mother-of-pearl with black mother-of-pearl sub-dials, both with diamond indices
Case Material
18K white gold
Case Dimensions
40mm (diameter) × 46mm (lug-to-lug) × 11.9mm (thickness)
Crystal
Scratch-resistant sapphire
Case Back
White gold, screw-in
Movement
Rolex 4131: automatic with manual winding, 28,800vph frequency, 72-hour power reserve, 44 jewels, chronometer certified
Water Resistance
100 meters
Strap
White gold Oyster bracelet (black MOP dial) / Oysterflex with Glidelock clasp (white MOP dial)
Functions
Time (hours, minutes, small seconds), chronograph (12-hour and 30-minute registers, central seconds)
Price
€72,800 (white gold bracelet) / €63,850 (Oysterflex bracelet)
Warranty
Five years