In 2012, Rolex made waves when it released a re-imagined version of its legendary Cosmograph Daytona, featuring a series of ornate embellishments. The Rolex Daytona was already a mega success for the watch company, a longtime favorite of famous race car drivers like Paul Newman. This new design was a bold, extravagant take on an iconic Rolex watch with a cult-like following. Beautifully highlighting the artistry and skill of Rolex’s in-house gem setters, the bezel is fashioned with 36 baguette-cut sapphires hand set in a rainbow gradation, and the mid-case boasts an astounding 56 individually set diamonds. Nicknamed the “Rainbow Daytona,” the watch was produced in both white and yellow gold, and sold in very small quantities. Its rarity only helped add to its appeal, and it wasn’t long before it became sought-after by watch collectors around the world. Now let’s jump to 2018, when the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona was once again unveiled at Baselworld in an eye-catching new color—Everose gold, Rolex’s very own shade of 18k rose gold. Just like its predecessor, the new Everose Daytona is a masterpiece that has watch enthusiasts everywhere scrambling to find one for themselves. So, what sets this new Rainbow Daytona apart from its previous version? It’s all in the metal. Rolex’s trademark Everose gold is the perfect shade to offset the dazzling rainbow sapphires set in the watch’s bezel. The warm tones of rose gold coupled with the colorful gemstones makes for an overall appearance that is more harmonious than the older 2012 model. Besides its captivating beauty, this rich, rosy metal is made to withstand wear from the elements, retaining its color and luster for years to come. And like all Rolex watches, the Everose Daytona is waterproof up to 100 meters. Additionally, the new watch also features 11 multi-colored sapphires set as the hour indexes. This is in contrast to diamonds which were used for the earlier Rolex Daytona’s. The use of colorful gemstones really stands out against the watch’s black lacquered dial. The change is small but significant, making the timepiece that much more stunning. Not to mention, Rolex has a standard of only using gemstones that are internally flawless, meaning each sapphire has absolutely no imperfections or inclusions. This is one reason why Rolex only produces the Rainbow Daytona in small volume, as it is difficult to source gems of such superior quality. Though some have criticized the Rainbow Rolex Daytona for its bombastic appearance, it’s impossible to question the skill and attention to detail that went in to the design of this extravagant timepiece. It has drawn both male and female fans, broadening its appeal and driving up demand even further. First priced at around $97,000, the Everose Cosmograph Daytona sold at auction in November for an astounding $246,013—more than double its original figure. Some watch aficionados have even dubbed it the most sought after watch of 2018. With 2019 underway, you can expect interest in the Everose Rolex Daytona to continue to grow, as it attracts attention from every corner of the globe. But to secure one of these exclusive timepieces will require that you either have an insider connection, or an immense amount of money and luck. Fortunately, there are a number of other luxurious Rolex models to gawk over that are available for sale right here in San Diego!

Shop Impressive Pre-Owned Rolex Watches in San Diego

Ready to splurge on an extravagant Rolex watch for yourself or someone special? Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers has one of the largest selections of pre-owned Rolex watches in San Diego! All of our pre-owned watches have been skillfully restored to like-new condition, so you’ll never notice a difference in performance, accuracy, or style. Not only do we carry a wide variety of Rolex watch models, we can also service Rolex watches right here, in house. Our on-site, certified watchmaker has the proficiency and training necessary to repair Rolex watches, as well as other Swiss and German made timepieces. Leo Hamel’s is your go-to store for all of your Rolex needs. Visit us on San Diego Avenue today, and see for yourself all that we have to offer! *All images courtesy of Hodinkee