Editor's Opinion: 81/100
Pierre Gisclard - February 17th, 2021
The Rolex Daytona has long held a position of unparalleled prestige in the world of horology. Its association with motorsport, its legendary design, and its robust performance have cemented its status as a collector's dream and a symbol of aspirational luxury. But in 2019, Rolex introduced a significant alteration to this iconic timepiece: the Oysterflex bracelet. This review delves deep into the Rolex Daytona Oysterflex, specifically focusing on the white gold 116519LN model, analyzing its design, comfort, performance, and overall value proposition. We’ll also explore the broader market surrounding the Oysterflex Daytona, including pricing, availability (searching for "Rolex Daytona Oysterflex for sale" online yields a plethora of results), and its place within the larger Rolex Daytona lineage.
Design and Aesthetics:
The Daytona's design is instantly recognizable. Its tachymeter bezel, three chronograph sub-dials, and the overall symmetry of the case create a timeless aesthetic that transcends fleeting trends. The white gold 116519LN, even without the Oysterflex bracelet, exudes an unparalleled elegance. The polished white gold case reflects light beautifully, highlighting its sculpted curves. However, it's the Oysterflex bracelet that truly sets this particular Daytona apart.
The Oysterflex bracelet is a radical departure from the traditional Daytona bracelets – the Oyster and the leather straps. It’s a high-performance elastomer bracelet featuring a flexible, yet remarkably robust, composition. The black rubber-like material is surprisingly comfortable, conforming to the wrist without feeling bulky or restrictive. This contrasts sharply with the sometimes stiff feel of the metal bracelets. The central part of the bracelet is reinforced with a flexible metal blade, ensuring both comfort and durability. This innovative design element successfully merges the comfort of a rubber strap with the sturdiness and quality expected from a Rolex. While some purists may lament the departure from the traditional metal bracelet, the Oysterflex undoubtedly adds a modern touch to the classic Daytona design, making it suitable for a broader range of occasions, from formal events to more casual settings.
Comfort and Wearability:
One of the most significant advantages of the Oysterflex bracelet is its exceptional comfort. The material is incredibly soft against the skin, making it ideal for all-day wear. The bracelet’s flexibility allows for a seamless fit, preventing any pinching or discomfort, even during extended periods of wear. This is a significant improvement over the more rigid metal bracelets, particularly in warmer climates. The deployment clasp is also exceptionally well-engineered, providing a secure and easy-to-use fastening mechanism. The integrated design ensures a smooth transition from the bracelet to the case, maintaining the watch's sleek profile.
Performance and Functionality:
The Daytona 116519LN Oysterflex houses the legendary Rolex Caliber 4130, a self-winding chronograph movement renowned for its precision and reliability. This movement boasts a column-wheel chronograph mechanism, known for its smooth and tactile operation. The chronograph pushers are crisp and responsive, providing a satisfying click with each press. The accuracy of the movement is exceptional, reflecting Rolex's unwavering commitment to precision. The power reserve is sufficient for daily use, eliminating the need for frequent winding.
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