The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona reference 116500LN represents six decades of racing chronograph development. Introduced in 2016 with the return of the ceramic bezel to stainless steel, this reference became one of the most sought-after sport watches in modern horology. The black lacquer dial, Cerachrom bezel, and in-house caliber 4130 movement create a watch that balances vintage racing heritage with contemporary engineering.
The Rolex Daytona 116500LN showcasing the black dial and ceramic bezel
Table of Contents
Case and Design Specifications
The 116500LN features a 40mm case crafted from 904L Oystersteel, measuring 12.2mm in thickness with a 47mm lug-to-lug span. The case profile curves naturally along its contours, providing a wrist-hugging fit that suits a range of wrist sizes.
Side profile highlighting the 12.2mm case thickness and curved lugs
Water resistance reaches 100 meters, supported by screw-down pushers and crown. The black Cerachrom bezel carries the tachymeter scale that has defined the Daytona since 1963. Cerachrom ceramic resists scratches and UV fading, ensuring the sharp contrast between bezel and dial remains intact over years of wear.
Close-up of the black Cerachrom bezel showing the engraved tachymeter scale
The Caliber 4130 Movement
Inside beats the Rolex caliber 4130, an in-house automatic chronograph movement developed specifically for the Daytona. The architecture employs a vertical clutch for chronograph engagement, allowing the seconds hand to start smoothly without the slight jump associated with lateral clutch designs. A column wheel coordinates the pusher functions with mechanical precision.
Case construction with screw-down chronograph pushers visible
The movement delivers a ~72-hour power reserve from a single winding. The Parachrom hairspring resists magnetic interference and temperature variations. With fewer components than many competing chronograph calibers, the 4130 achieves reliability through simplicity.
Dial and Visual Identity
The black lacquer dial presents a clean, confident aesthetic. 18k white-gold hour markers provide legibility against the dark surface, while silver sub-dials for the running seconds, 30-minute counter, and 12-hour counter add depth through contrast.
Dial close-up revealing the 18k white-gold indices and silver sub-dial registers
Polished rings surround each sub-dial, catching light without appearing excessive. This restraint defines the Daytona's character.
Wrist shot demonstrating the Daytona 116500LN's balanced 40mm presence
Oyster Bracelet and Comfort
The Oyster bracelet continues the 904L Oystersteel construction, featuring brushed outer links with polished center links. The Oysterlock clasp secures the bracelet with a folding mechanism, and the Easylink extension system allows 5mm of quick adjustment throughout the day.
Bracelet detail showing the brushed and polished link finishing with Oysterlock clasp
Market Position and Value
The Daytona 116500LN occupies a particular position in the collector market. Production constraints and sustained demand have maintained values well above retail since introduction. This stainless steel reference represents the entry point to the modern ceramic Daytona family, yet it remains one of the more challenging references to acquire through authorized channels.
Complete watch presentation in Rolex presentation box
For collectors seeking a chronograph that embodies both historical significance and contemporary refinement, the 116500LN delivers. Balanced proportions, proven mechanics, and considered aesthetics combine into a chronograph designed for decades of wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the retail price of the Rolex Daytona 116500LN?
The official Rolex retail price for the 116500LN is approximately $15,000-$16,000, though market prices typically exceed $25,000-$30,000 due to limited availability through authorized dealers.
Is the Daytona 116500LN available in white dial?
Yes, the 116500LN comes in both black dial and white dial variants. The white dial version creates a "Panda" configuration (white dial with black sub-dials), while the black dial is a "Reverse Panda" (black dial with silver sub-dials).
How accurate is the caliber 4130 movement?
The caliber 4130 is COSC-certified and meets Rolex's Superlative Chronometer standard, achieving accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day, which exceeds standard COSC requirements.
| Reference Number | 116500LN |
|---|---|
| Case Material | 904L Oystersteel |
| Case Diameter | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.2mm |
| Movement | Caliber 4130 (automatic chronograph) |
| Power Reserve | ~72 hours |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters |
| Bezel | Black Cerachrom ceramic with tachymeter |