The Rolex Daytona is a legend, a watch that transcends mere timekeeping and enters the realm of iconic status. Among its many variations, the reference 116509, affectionately known as the "Panda" due to its contrasting black subdials on a white dial, holds a particularly coveted position. This article delves into the allure of the Rolex Daytona 116509 Panda, examining its design, history, market value, and what makes it such a desirable acquisition. We'll also explore the current market price, referencing a specific listing for an unworn, full-set example priced at $55,967.
The Allure of the Panda: A Design Masterclass
The 116509's appeal lies in its masterful blend of classic elegance and sporty functionality. The 40mm white gold case exudes a sense of timeless sophistication. White gold, a precious metal alloy, offers a luxurious sheen and exceptional durability, resisting scratches and maintaining its brilliance over time. The polished bezel, a hallmark of the Daytona line, complements the case perfectly, adding a touch of refined glamour.
The heart of the 116509's charm is its iconic "Panda" dial. The stark contrast between the crisp white background and the two black chronograph subdials creates a visually striking and instantly recognizable aesthetic. This simple yet effective design choice elevates the watch beyond mere functionality; it's a statement piece, a testament to both horological precision and understated luxury. The black subdials, meticulously crafted and perfectly aligned, offer exceptional readability, ensuring effortless monitoring of elapsed time. The applied hour markers, crafted from 18k white gold, further enhance the watch's luxurious feel and contribute to its overall refined aesthetic.
The watch's movement, the calibre 4130, is a testament to Rolex's commitment to horological excellence. This self-winding mechanical movement, entirely developed and manufactured in-house by Rolex, boasts impressive accuracy, reliability, and a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. This ensures that the 116509 continues to keep accurate time, even when not worn for a couple of days. The 4130 movement is also known for its robustness and longevity, a hallmark of Rolex’s commitment to creating timepieces that stand the test of time, both literally and figuratively.
Rolex Daytona 116509 Price: A Market Analysis
The Rolex Daytona 116509 Panda is a highly sought-after timepiece, commanding a significant premium in the secondary market. Its desirability stems from a combination of factors, including its limited production numbers, its iconic design, and the enduring legacy of the Daytona name. The price varies depending on the condition, box and papers (full set), and the seller. However, the prices generally remain high, reflecting its status as a luxury collector's item.
A recent listing illustrates this point: an unworn, full-set Rolex Daytona 116509 Panda (2023 model) is listed for $55,967. This price reflects the watch's pristine condition, the inclusion of the original box and papers, and the current high demand for this particular reference. This price point also underscores the significant investment potential associated with owning a 116509 Panda. The price of pre-owned examples can fluctuate based on market trends, but generally, expect to pay a substantial premium over the original retail price.
current url:https://kfzmbt.squadlabel.com/bag/rolex-116509-panda-58411