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2002 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116518 - 18K Yellow Gold Blue Sunburst Dial

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Details
The Gold Case And The Blue Dial
By the early 2000s, the Rolex Daytona was firmly established as the world's most sought-after chronograph. Rolex began using this position to offer more expressive and luxurious configurations beyond the standard tool-watch palette. This solid 18K yellow gold example is a product of that era, fitted with a vibrant blue sunburst dial. The combination of a precious metal case with a bold, sporty dial color created a watch that was unapologetically luxurious yet retained the Daytona's motorsport heritage. It represents a moment when Rolex felt confident enough to push its most important model into new territory.
The First In-House Automatic Chronograph
This reference 116518 is built on the quintessential modern Daytona platform. The Oyster case is rendered in solid 18K yellow gold, giving the watch substantial weight and presence. Its proportions are defined by the screw-down pushers, Triplock crown, and the engraved tachymeter scale on the fixed gold bezel. This example is powered by Rolex's caliber 4130, the brand's first in-house automatic chronograph movement and a major technical achievement that redefined the standard for integrated chronograph construction. It's a complete package, combining the definitive chronograph design with a full precious metal construction.
Immaculate Dial, Sharp Case, Aftermarket Strap
This example presents in Excellent Condition, with a solid 18K yellow gold case that retains its sharp factory lines and finishing. The vibrant blue sunburst dial with its contrasting red sub-dial accents is immaculate. This piece wears an aftermarket blue rubber strap with a correct 18K yellow gold clasp, a pairing that enhances the sporty, modern character of the configuration. The watch is accompanied by its original box and warranty papers. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Blue Dial Daytona In Precious Metal
The blue sunburst dial was offered for only a brief window in the 116518's production run, making it a rare factory specification within an already exclusive precious metal reference. Most gold Daytonas from this era were delivered with champagne, white, or black dials. This configuration answers the question of how to wear the world's most recognizable chronograph in a way that stands apart from the standard palette. For collectors building a Daytona collection across materials and dial variants, or for those seeking a sports chronograph that combines precious metal with an expressive dial color, this watch occupies a specific position that few other references can match.
Key Specs
Reference: 116518
Model: Cosmograph Daytona
Year: 2002
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 40mm (Excluding Crown)
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet: Aftermarket Blue Rubber Strap with 18K Yellow Gold Clasp
Bracelet Length: 7 inch
Dial: Blue Sunburst, Arabic Numerals
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 136.9g
Includes: Original Box and Warranty Papers
SKU: 1884
Fit & Customization
This watch should feel like it was made for your wrist from the moment you put it on. That's why we offer:
  • Strap Customization: Any two-piece strap swapped and custom-fitted in your choice of material, color, and length
  • Standard Bracelet Sizing: Precise link additions or removals to achieve your exact fit
  • Integrated Bracelet Sizing: A bespoke service few boutiques are equipped to handle
  • Custom Caseback Engraving: Personalize your watch with initials, dates, or custom text engraved on the caseback
Contact us about this item or your order, and we'll take it from there.