Rolex Daytona 116598RBOW Rainbow Sapphire Bezel × Diamond Index × 18KYG – Ultra-Rare Masterpiece – Full Set – Collector Grade

A Rainbow Daytona is not merely a watch—
it is a global cultural phenomenon, a modern-era grail that exists at the intersection of haute horlogerie, jewellery arts, and investment-grade rarity.

The 116598RBOW remains one of the most elusive Rolex creations ever released, each requiring painstaking gemstone selection, hand-matched baguettes, and diamond-set lugs.
Owning one is not about timekeeping.
It is about joining the microscopic fraction of collectors who hold a Rolex jewelled reference that will not be repeated again in the modern catalogue.

🎨 “The Arc of Light”

Beneath its iconic arc of hand-selected rainbow sapphires, the Daytona transforms into a sculptural jewel: a chromatic crescendo of gold, light, and motion.
This is the point where engineering becomes art, and where art becomes an heirloom.

DESCRIPTION

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116598RBOW—universally known as the Rainbow Daytona—stands among the most mythologised modern Rolex references.
Each example requires Rolex’s gemologists to hand-select and colour-grade a complete gradient of baguette-cut sapphires, a task so demanding that production quantities have remained exceptionally low.

This magnificent 18K Yellow Gold execution pairs its rainbow bezel with diamond-set lugs, diamond hour markers, and a rich black dial that intensifies the chromatic spectrum surrounding it.
Every sapphire is individually chosen for saturation, tone, and progression, ensuring a perfectly balanced “rainbow arc”—a signature impossible to duplicate outside Rolex’s internal gem atelier.

Beyond its visual power, the 116598RBOW embodies Rolex’s pinnacle of jewellery watchmaking:
• Precision Swiss chronograph calibre
• 100m water resistance
• Solid 18KYG Oyster case and bracelet
• Exceptional hand finishing and gem-setting integrity

This is a reference that sits at the intersection of contemporary art, high jewellery, cultural iconography, and financial asset class.
Its global demand has outpaced supply every single year since its release, making it one of the most stable long-term performers in the modern Rolex portfolio.

A Rainbow Daytona is not simply worn—
it is curated.

HIGHLIGHTS & FEATURES

• Reference: 116598RBOW
• 18K Yellow Gold case & bracelet
• Rolex-selected rainbow sapphire bezel
• Factory diamond-set lugs
• Black dial with diamond hour markers (8PD)
• Case size: 40mm
• Bracelet size: approx. 18.5cm
• Calibre 4130 automatic chronograph
• 100m water resistance
• Full set: box, guarantee card, booklet
• Extremely low global production
• One of the strongest long-term Rolex investment references

ITEM DETAILS

Model: Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Rainbow”
Reference: 116598RBOW
Material: 18K Yellow Gold, Sapphires, Diamonds
Dial: Black with diamond hour markers
Size: 40mm (case), 18.5cm (bracelet)
Movement: Automatic
Function: Chronograph
Water Resistance: 100m
Country of Origin: Switzerland
Inclusions: International Guarantee, Rolex Box, Guarantee Card, Booklets
Condition: Excellent pre-owned; minor wear consistent with careful use

CONDITION REPORT

Case: Excellent condition, soft surface wear only. Edges sharp, gem-setting intact.
Bezel: Rainbow sapphire bezel flawless to the eye; stones clean and securely set.
Dial: Perfect; no blemishes. Diamonds clear and well-matched.
Hands/Markers: Bright, pristine.
Crystal: Sapphire crystal clean, no edge chips.
Bracelet: Light wear, no stretch, excellent colour retention.
Movement: Chronograph functions correct; timekeeping stable.
Accessories: Full set with guarantee card and official packaging.

WHY COLLECTORS WANT THIS PIECE

• One of the most desirable modern Rolex references
• Production bottleneck due to sapphire grading → permanent rarity
• Holds cultural status across luxury, music, art, and fashion circles
• Proven long-term appreciation across global markets
• Top-tier visibility in auction houses and private collector portfolios
• A centrepiece watch for any high-end curation

The Rainbow Daytona is frequently referenced as “the most spectacular gem-set Rolex of the 21st century.”

BRAND HERITAGE

Rolex’s approach to gem-setting relies on an internal atelier of gemologists and master setters, whose standards exceed those of many traditional jewellery houses.
Every stone is selected for clarity, cut, and chromatic harmony—an uncompromising philosophy that defines the Rainbow Daytona as one of the maison’s greatest artistic achievements.

Looking to secure this piece today?

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Some of our pieces may allow a little room for negotiation, while others hold firm due to rarity, condition, or collector value. On a case-by-case basis, we do entertain best offers, and we welcome you to submit one if you have a particular figure in mind. We review all offers seriously and personally.

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