Daytona Custom Rainbow

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116520 Custom Rainbow

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116520 (Custom Rainbow) is an aftermarket-modified interpretation of one of Rolex’s most iconic chronographs. Originally produced between 2000 and 2016, the standard 116520 is a stainless steel Daytona powered by the in-house Calibre 4130. In this configuration, the watch has been transformed with a rainbow gemstone aesthetic, dramatically altering both its appearance and market positioning.

The 40 mm Oystersteel case retains the classic Daytona proportions and architecture, but features an aftermarket bezel set with approximately 36 baguette-cut sapphires, arranged in a full color gradient (red through violet). The lugs are additionally set with diamonds, enhancing the visual impact and aligning the watch stylistically with factory gem-set Daytonas—though this example is not factory-produced.

The black dial with white sub-dials (“reverse panda”) maintains the original Daytona layout:

• Small seconds at 6 o’clock

• 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock

• 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock

• Central chronograph seconds hand in red

Despite the aesthetic modifications, the watch preserves Rolex’s Oyster case construction, including:

• Screw-down Triplock crown

• Screw-down chronograph pushers

• Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal

• Solid caseback

• 100 meters (10 ATM) water resistance (though aftermarket work can affect sealing reliability in practice)

Inside remains the Rolex Calibre 4130, a highly regarded in-house automatic chronograph movement. It operates at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) with 44 jewels, featuring a column wheel and vertical clutch for precise and smooth chronograph operation. The movement delivers:

• Hours, minutes, small seconds

• Chronograph (30-min / 12-hour counters)

• Power reserve of approximately 72 hours

• Superlative Chronometer precision (−2/+2 sec/day)

The watch is fitted with the classic Oyster bracelet, secured by an Oysterlock clasp with Easylink extension.

⚠️ Important Market & Collectability Note

This is NOT a factory Rolex “Rainbow Daytona”. It is an aftermarket customization.

Key Specifications

• Reference: 116520 (aftermarket modified)

• Collection: Cosmograph Daytona

• Case Material: Oystersteel

• Bezel: Aftermarket rainbow baguette sapphire-set (~36 stones)

• Diameter: 40 mm

• Thickness: approx. 12.4 mm

• Dial: Black with white sub-dials

• Calibre: Rolex 4130, automatic chronograph

• Jewels: 44

• Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)

• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph

• Power Reserve: ~72 hours

• Precision: Superlative Chronometer (−2/+2 sec/day)

• Water Resistance: 100 meters (10 ATM) (nominal)

• Bracelet: Oystersteel Oyster with Oysterlock and Easylink