Rolex, as part of their Perpetual Planet Initiative, and in aid of the Federer Foundation and Leonardo DiCaprio’s charity Re:wild, will auction off four completely unique gem-set Daytona models – a world first for the iconic brand.
In partnership with the Phillips auction house, the four watches will be sold as separate lots in London on September 28, with each piece inspired by one of the seasons.
The watches previously made a hush hush appearance at this year’s Watches and Wonders event in Geneva but were on the top floor of Rolex’s booth where photographed was banned.
The four watches, which have vastly different styles, are all one-of-one but share the classic Daytona shape while every piece is also fitted with 54 brilliant-cut diamonds in its lug and crown.
The first, Spring, reference 126599 SAVL, features a white gold case and chrysoprase features 36 purple sapphires and another 11 act at hourmarkers with the Rolex crown remaining at 12 o’clock.
The second watch, Summer, reference 126595 SARO, is appropriately warm with a rose gold case contrasting sharply against the turqoise dial. The blast of colour is completed by bright ruby counters while the bezel shimmers with 36 pink sapphires.
When we get to Autumn, reference 126598 TML, we’re unsurprisingly getting into less garish colours with this watch dominated by its yellow dial and a bezel that possesses 36 green tourmalines. The watch is completed by a classic gold case and bracelet.
The final watch hitting the auction block, Winter, reference 126596 SABV, evokes Wimbledon with its blue-green dial and purple bezel. Made out of platinum, the bezel again features 36 sapphires that subtly change colour while diamonds are used to mark the hours.
It has been reported that Rolex initially planned to sell the four watches as a set with the going rate of around £4 million. However, it is said the company had more than 1,000 legitimate enquiries into the watches and with the auction for charity, it is expected the final total sale to be more than double the £4 million Rolex initially wanted.
Rolex said in a statement: “Inspired by the four seasons, these unique Cosmograph Daytona watches showcase Rolex’s expertise in gem-setting – a rare and refined expression of watchmaking excellence that brings together precision, creativity and beauty.
More than exceptional timepieces, these watches carry a deeper meaning. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Federer Foundation and Re:wild, co-founded by Leonardo DiCaprio: two organizations whose respective missions – supporting young people and protecting nature – resonate with Rolex’s vision for a more sustainable planet.
Through this initiative, Rolex underscores its belief that true excellence is measured not only by the quality of its products, but also by the positive impact it can have on the world.”
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