In 2000, Rolex introduced the groundbreaking Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116520, featuring the firm’s first ever in-house self-winding chronograph caliber 4130, replacing its former Zenith El Primero based caliber 4030. Entering into the new millennium with a bang, Rolex also introduced gold variants of the Cosmograph Daytona, and also for the first time were also offered with various dial materials, including hardstones. Rolex has always been at the innovative forefront when it comes to the experimentation of dial materials. Hardstone dials have always been a collectors favourite due to the fact that every dial is unique as it is natural. Various hardstones have differing natures, in terms of composition, luster and hardness, hence executing hardstone dials require extreme precision to execute.

The present example Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116519 is fitted with an stunning red grossular garnet rubellite dial and bedazzled with diamond-set indexes. Bearing a P serial, the present example preserved in excellent condition is part of the early production since the launch of the new reference. Charmed with its original guarantee and accessories, the original green caseback sticker remains further intact.