rolex 116500 review | Rolex 116500ln retail price

The Rolex Daytona 116500LN. Just the name evokes a certain level of horological reverence. For years, it was *the* grail watch for many collectors, a symbol of success, style, and undeniable taste. But does it live up to the hype? And now that it's been discontinued, replaced by the 126500LN, is it still worth the chase? In this in-depth review, we delve into the specifics of the 116500LN, drawing on the experience of guest author Philip Blumer, who provides a personal owner's perspective.

Philip, a long-time watch enthusiast and Daytona owner, has spent considerable time with the 116500LN, experiencing its nuances, its strengths, and even its minor shortcomings. His insights, combined with a broader exploration of the watch's market value, technical specifications, and comparisons to its successor, offer a comprehensive understanding of this modern classic.

Philip Blumer's Owner's Perspective: Living with the Legendrolex 116500 review

"The Daytona 116500LN. What can I say that hasn't already been said? It's a watch that needs no introduction. But owning one is different than simply admiring it from afar. It's a daily companion, a conversation starter, and a constant reminder of a passion for mechanical artistry."

Philip begins by acknowledging the inherent allure of the Daytona. "The ceramic bezel was a game-changer. It modernized the Daytona while retaining its classic lines. The contrast between the stark white dial and the black bezel is just stunning. It catches the light in all the right ways and makes the watch incredibly legible."

He emphasizes the comfort of the watch. "The Oyster bracelet is legendary for a reason. It's incredibly comfortable and feels substantial without being overly heavy. The Easylink extension system is a lifesaver, especially in warmer weather when your wrist expands slightly. It's a simple but brilliant feature that makes a big difference in everyday wearability."

However, Philip also points out some minor drawbacks. "The polished center links on the bracelet are scratch magnets. It's just part of owning a Rolex with this design, but it can be a bit frustrating. I've learned to embrace the scratches as character, but it's something to be aware of."

He also mentions the difficulty in acquiring the watch at retail price during its production run. "Let's be honest, getting one at retail was like winning the lottery. The demand far exceeded the supply, and the grey market prices were astronomical. I waited patiently and eventually got lucky, but it was a long and arduous process."

Finally, Philip reflects on the overall ownership experience. "Despite the hype and the challenges in acquiring it, the Daytona 116500LN has exceeded my expectations. It's a beautifully designed, incredibly well-made watch that I enjoy wearing every single day. It's more than just a timepiece; it's a statement piece, a symbol of craftsmanship, and a reminder to appreciate the finer things in life."

The Technical Specifications: A Deep Dive

Beyond the aesthetics and the ownership experience, the Daytona 116500LN boasts impressive technical specifications.

* Case: 40mm Oystersteel case, known for its durability and corrosion resistance. The case is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), thanks to the Triplock winding crown and screw-down pushers.

* Bezel: Black Cerachrom ceramic bezel with engraved tachymetric scale. The ceramic bezel is highly scratch-resistant and resistant to fading from UV exposure.

* Movement: Rolex Caliber 4130, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. It features a column wheel and vertical clutch, ensuring smooth and precise chronograph operation. The movement is COSC-certified, guaranteeing exceptional accuracy.

* Bracelet: Oyster bracelet in Oystersteel with polished center links and brushed outer links. The bracelet features the Easylink 5mm comfort extension link.

* Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

* Dial: Available with either a white or black dial. The white dial is often referred to as the "Panda" dial due to its contrasting black subdials.

* Power Reserve: Approximately 72 hours.

The Caliber 4130 is a particularly noteworthy aspect of the 116500LN. It's a robust and reliable movement that has been praised for its accuracy and longevity. Its integrated chronograph design, featuring a column wheel and vertical clutch, contributes to the smooth and precise operation of the chronograph functions.

The Discontinuation and the Market Value: A Price to Pay

The discontinuation of the Rolex 116500LN in 2023 sent shockwaves through the watch collecting community. While the introduction of the 126500LN was welcomed, the 116500LN immediately became a highly sought-after collectible.