The 24-Hour Race: 24 Hours of Daytona

Every enthusiast or collector appreciates an exquisite Rolex watch, and the Rolex 24 at Daytona is no exception. This unique timepiece is one of the most prestigious symbols of the most prestigious races: the 24-hour endurance race that tests the vehicle’s and driver’s limits. This annual event occurs on the last weekend in January since 1992, and Atlanta Luxury Watches commemorates this event by availing the Rolex Daytona line. Visit our watch store and learn more about the Rolex 24 at Daytona and how this partnership has grown.

The History of the Race

Dayton Beach, FL, has been synonymous with racing activities since 1902 the first race was held. The race was initially held at the Daytona Beach Road Race but later closed in the late 1950s. The race later moved to the Daytona International Speedway, built by the NASCAR founder, William France Sr. He built the track to host all the races held in the former Daytona Beach and Road House.

The first three-hour endurance race was held in 1962 at the Daytona Continental. Dan Gurney won the event while driving a Lotus 19, which resulted in the rule, “A car must cross the finish line by its power to complete the race.” The timeline increased to 12 hours in 1964 and 24 hours in 1966.

Rolex became the first partner of the event in 1992, renaming it the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Since this collaboration, the race has been held annually, attracting the biggest names in the motorsport world.

The Coveted Prize: Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

While many drivers and motorsport enthusiasts wish to compete in the Rolex 24 at Daytona, the prize awaiting the winner is just as coveted. The winner receives a unique Rolex watch, the Cosmograph Daytona. Unlike other luxury watches, it is designed for drivers. The timepiece features a tachymeter scale on the bezel, water, shock resistance, and high accuracy, making it ideal for racing. The first piece was introduced in 1963, with three distinct generations.

Original Series

The original series was launched in 1963 and ended production in 1989. These luxury watches had a manual-winding movement and four-digit reference. Since the series was produced in small quantities, they are some of the rarest Daytonas. This series' most notable Rolex watch was the “Paul Newman,” a famous actor who wore it daily.

Second Series

The Second Series started production in 1988 and ended in 2000. These luxury watches feature an automatic movement and the iconic Rolex caliber 4030 based on the Zenith El Primero movement. Rolex launched a special edition in 1991 as a gift to the brand’s directors and only produced ten pieces, referred to as the Chairman Rolex Daytona.

Third Series

Lastly, the third series was introduced in 2000 and continues production. This series features an automatic movement with a chronograph function. In addition, the third series has a six-digit model or reference numbers and features a new dial design. The running seconds sub-dial was moved to the 6 o’clock position, which is different from other watches that have the sub-dial at the 9’oclock position.

Our watch store offers quality timepieces from your favorite brands. We provide pertinent information on every timepiece to ensure you make an informed purchase. Call Atlanta Luxury Watches today and invest in the perfect timepiece.