Rolex has always been unwavering in its support for motorsports, proudly proclaiming its commitment to auto racing throughout the 20th century. To examine the Daytona model is to acknowledge the history as well as the symbiotic relationship between the Genevan watchmaker and high-octane world of racing. From the origins of the name, to Rolex’s longstanding sponsorship of international races, few watch models are so intertwined with motor racing as the Cosmograph Daytona.

The present watch was presented to David Brabham upon his team’s victory at the 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans. Alongside drivers Alexander Wurz and Marc Gene, Brabham drove for the Peugeot Sport Total team, completing 382 laps. What truly sets this watch apart is the “WINNER 2009 24 Heures Du Mans’” engraving on the case back. It is furthermore accompanied by a Rolex guarantee confirming the sale to Les 24 Heures du Mans 2009 in May 2009 and Brabham’s signed racing boots. The world’s oldest endurance car race, 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most grueling automobile competitions in the world. Every year, world-class teams of drivers descend on Le Mans, France, to participate in the 24-hour endurance car race.

Successor to Rolex’s very first automatic chronograph, reference 116520 made its debut in the year 2000. The very first in-house automatic winding system, caliber 4130 represented a big technical stride for the brand.