Rolex is typically known as a pretty conservative company. But this white gold Daytona with green hardstone dial proves that its designers certainly have a flair for the dramatic— or in this case a flair for the exotic—as well.
In the early 2000s, Rolex introduced a quartet of 18k white gold ref. 116519 Daytonas with colorful hardstone dials. Due to the popping blue, green, yellow, and pink dials these watches are collectively known as the ‘Beach Daytona’ series.This lovely specimen from 2001 features a dial made from chrysoprase, a gemstone variety of chalcedony that can range from a light to a deep green color. The name chrysoprase is derived from Greek and translates roughly to “golden apple”, an apt description for the apple green hue of this dial!A number of details give this dial a ton of depth. Just look at those magnificent recessed sub-dials, an incredible feat of precision engineering given the brittleness of natural stones. On the hour markers we find applied 18k white gold Arabic numerals that match well with the white gold stick hands. A pop of contrasting color is introduced by the placement of the word “DAYTONA” in red text.The watch comes on its original green alligator leather Rolex strap with an 18k white gold Rolex folding clasp.
