Having concluded the interesting auction in Monte-Carlo, organized by Monaco Legend Group, with excellent results, one of the most interesting weekends of the year is approaching, with Geneva hosting the most important auction houses-Phillips, Sotheby’s, Christie’s and Antiquorum.
In this and future articles, we will try to bring you the stories of this weekend’s most fascinating lots, starting with an incredible Rolex Daytona Rainbow example, the first one ever produced with this particular configuration of gemstones and Zenith mechanics.
It is the reference 16599SAAEC, with “SAAEC” meaning Sapphire Arc-en-Ciel, or, “Rainbow” in French. The specimen appears at auction for the first time and represents a unique opportunity for Rolex collectors to acquire a true one-of-a-kind piece.
The characteristics of the first Daytona Rainbow
In today’s market, Rolex’s “modern” Daytona Rainbow is considered one of the most prized and sought-after watches, with prices in the secondary market considerably higher than the list price, given the difficulty, even for Rolex’s most important customers, of obtaining it directly from the manufacturer.
The first regularly produced “Rainbow” models were the references 116598RBOW and 116599RBOW, in yellow and white gold, respectively, launched starting in 2012. Only later, in 2018, was the reference 116595RBOW in rose gold introduced. The specimen to be auctioned by Phillips, however, dates back to 1994, a time when the market was profoundly different and sports watches adorned with precious stones did not yet enjoy the prestige and appreciation of today. This unique piece was commissioned by a particularly influential client and stands out as a truly rare and unrepeatable masterpiece.
The features of this watch, with a white gold case, bear similarities to modern models, but it is distinguished by some unique details, including the color scheme of the stones on the bezel, which is reversed from that of more recent references. The dial is decorated with a splendid pavé of diamonds, with hour markers also made of sapphire, creating an effect of unparalleled luxury.
Another outstanding feature of this example is the caliber: the 4030 movement, derived from the Zenith El Primero caliber, extensively modified by Rolex. This detail makes it the only Rainbow to have a Zenith movement, giving it an unparalleled technical and historical appeal. Produced in the 1990s, it represents a perfect combination of horological innovation and top-notch craftsmanship.
The watch was born with a leather strap, a choice that gives it a touch of elegance, making it suitable for wearing even on formal occasions, while retaining its distinctive and bold nature. However, it is difficult to classify it as a watch perfectly suited for wearing under a suit, given its extraordinary design and the opulence of its decorations.
The Daytona Rainbow Estimate.
Anyone in the watchmaking world knows how iconic the Daytona model is in collectibles. The example to be sold by Phillips during the auction “Reloaded: The Rebirth of Mechanical Watchmaking” represents one of the most important ever produced by Rolex, a symbol of innovation and prestige.
The estimate of this specimen reflects its unique history and extraordinary value: Phillips expects to sell it for no less than 3,200,000 euros. This sale is sure to attract the attention of collectors, offering a unique opportunity to own a legendary piece of watchmaking.
Conclusion
The Daytona Rainbow that will be sold on Friday undoubtedly represents one of the most interesting pieces that has appeared at auction this year, with the possibility of achieving a sale price comparable to other top lots already sold, such as the Patek Philippe 2523 “Eurasia,” awarded by Phillips in Hong Kong for more than 7 million euros, and the legendary Rolex ref. , sold by Monaco Legend Group for 3.2 million euros.
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