As the title suggests, the Rolex Daytona Cosmograph 116500LN with the white Panda dial is arguably the standout watch from Rolex in 2016. It has been highly loved and anticipated by collectors worldwide. The excitement began after the Basel show in 2016, where Rolex showcased this model. Since then, the waiting list to acquire one has become nearly impossible, with the original retail price set at £8,250 before the price increase. Moreover, you are unlikely to find this watch in any Rolex Authorized Dealer.
The design of the 116500LN is reminiscent of the older pre-ceramic version, which featured a stainless steel bezel, a white dial, and silver sub-dials. The significant change in this model is the Cerachrom ceramic bezel, which has been widely appreciated. The white dial with black sub-dials is what gives it the coveted "Panda" dial look. Today, this design is in high demand across various watch brands.
I completely understand the appeal of the ceramic bezel. After owning the older model, I realized how easily the stainless steel bezel could get scratched. The ceramic version is much tougher to mark, which is a crucial consideration for collectors, many of whom are quite particular about their watches.
The Rolex Cosmograph has also been loved by numerous celebrities, with Paul Newman being a prominent fan and ambassador of the brand since the 1970s. This association has significantly contributed to the watch's collector status today. Vintage Paul Newman Daytonas are now fetching over £100,000—quite a jump from the £300 to £400 price range in the 1970s. Honestly, the vintage market has surged in recent years, and anything with a matte dial and gilt is now highly sought after.
While I genuinely appreciate the watch, I must admit that my experience with it was somewhat underwhelming, particularly given the cost, which was well above the retail price. This reaction might stem from the immense hype and my strong desire to own one. With waiting lists for this model expected to remain nonexistent for the next 15 years, many collectors, including myself as a Daytona enthusiast, are obligated to pay a premium to own one. Nevertheless, the pictures truly capture its beauty.
