In the era of the modern Daytona model, Rolex occasionally experiments with the collection, releasing versions in platinum, with rainbow gem settings, and striking models in noble metals.
Nevertheless, the core of the collection has always remained unchanged. There have always been only two stainless steel models: one with a white 'panda' dial and one with a black dial. Until now, of course. Or almost until then. At the Watches and Wonders 2026 exhibition, in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Oyster case, Rolex introduced the new, ultra-exclusive Daytona ref. 126502, which will not be included in the main catalog and is partially made of stainless steel.
What is Rolesium in the new Daytona?
Rolex called this configuration Rolesium. Although the name might sound like a new proprietary alloy, it is actually long-known but seemingly forgotten. Rolesium is a term first registered by Hans Wilsdorf in 1932 and is now used for the 40-millimeter Yacht-Master model, made of Oystersteel with a platinum bezel.
This is the combination we see in the new Daytona Rolesium: a 40 mm stainless steel case, a platinum bezel, and a platinum case back with sapphire glass. Yes, you heard correctly - a case back with a transparent sapphire window on a stainless steel Daytona model. Essentially, it is a steel watch with elements of precious metals, which is a significant departure from the Rolex and Daytona line traditions.
Features of the Platinum Bezel
The bezel deserves special attention for several reasons. First, the design is similar to the latest ref. 126500 model: a fixed bezel with a black ceramic insert (Cerachrom) located inside a thin metal ring framing the watch. This design debuted in 2023, replacing the monoblock ceramic bezel of the model 116500 with a more classic one reminiscent of the aluminum bezels of the 1970s, such as on the model 6263. In the new version, the bezel is made of platinum, with a ceramic insert that Rolex calls anthracite ceramic. Almost dark gray, slightly metallic in shade, this bezel is produced at Rolex's own facility using a new process involving tungsten carbide, patented in 2024.
As with other modern Daytona models, the tachymetric scale on the bezel is formed directly in the ceramic and coated with platinum using physical vapor deposition (PVD). However, you may notice that the new model looks slightly different from the others in the lineup. This is because the numbers on the scale are now aligned horizontally and feature an updated font, more reminiscent of the original 1963 Daytona - a detail that was preserved on all steel models until the ceramic bezel update in 2016.
Unique White Dial with Enameled Counters
The dial of the new model 126502 deserves special attention. It is rendered in a striking milky white with unusual white enameled chronograph counters. The process used to create the dial is similar to the Grand Feu technique, often used in haute horlogerie. Rolex used four ceramic plates coated with white enamel, which are fired and then attached to a brass base. The result is an exceptionally glossy, deep white color reminiscent of the 'porcelain' dial of the Zenith Daytona ref. 16520 from 1988. Rolex made no direct references to this model, but the resemblance is impressive.
Calibre 4131 Movement with Transparent Case Back
Although unusual for a Daytona, when you turn the watch over, you get a view of the Calibre 4131 chronograph movement through the sapphire case back. This movement is borrowed from the top model in platinum. The case back features a large solid sapphire window, mounted on a threaded platinum ring, emphasizing the Rolesium concept. The movement is distinguished by its high performance for mass-produced column wheel, boasting a 72-hour power reserve, Paraflex shock absorption system, and a Parachrom blue hairspring. Despite my reservations about the necessity of a transparent case back for this model, the movement is adorned - a yellow gold skeletonized rotor and bridge finishing in the Côtes de Genève style, which are typically hidden from view, making it a rare detail for mass models.
Bracelet and Clasp of the Rolesium Daytona 126502
The new Daytona is equipped with a classic three-link Oyster bracelet in stainless steel, finished like other steel models: matte outer links and mirror-polished central links. The bracelet comes with one of the best folding clasps on the market with a polished central part for stylistic unity and a 5 mm extension for added comfort. Despite the excellent bracelet, many would expect to see this special model on a stainless steel Jubilee bracelet, which would be an even more obvious reference to the model 6263.
Price and Availability of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Rolesium” ref. 126502
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 126502 is not part of the standard catalog and is available only by special order.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Rolex |
| Model | Cosmograph Daytona |
| Reference | 126502LN |
| Case Size | 40 mm (diameter) × 11.9 mm (thickness) × 47.6 mm (lug-to-lug) |
| Case Material | Stainless steel, platinum bezel and case back |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters, screw-down crown and chronograph pushers |
| Crystal | Sapphire front and back |
| Dial | Grand Feu white enamel, white sub-dials |
| Lug Width | 20 mm |
| Bracelet | Oyster, stainless steel, folding clasp |
| Movement | Calibre 4131, in-house, automatic, Superlative Chronometer |
| Power Reserve | 72 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, running seconds, chronograph |
| Availability | Available now, off-catalog |
| Price | $57,800 USD |
This model demonstrates the evolution of the Rolex Daytona, retaining classic elements while incorporating innovative materials and technologies, making it a unique piece for collectors and watch enthusiasts.
