First released in 1963, the Rolex Daytona Panda is easily recognisable as one of the most covetable watches from the luxury brand, catapulted to iconic status by the one and only Paul Newman who wore the Cosmograph Daytona, which eventually went on to sell in auction for an eye-watering $17.75 million. Fast forward almost 60 years and the “Panda” as it is affectionately known, shows no signs of waning in popularity.
Purists believe the term “Panda” specifically refers to two models of the Daytona watch with characteristic black and white colouring. These are the reference 6263 and 6265 models with a white Paul Newman dial, black sub-dials, and a white outer seconds track. This distinct pattern, however, does not extend to other Daytona watches, even if they also feature black and white colouring. However, due to striking design, many people still use the term “Panda” when referring to this colourway and it’s easy to see why.
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The iconic 5-circle design of the Cosmograph Daytona is symbolic with its bezel, minute track, and three counters. Its classic “Panda” design of black counters on a white background is famous, partly benefiting from Hollywood icon, race car driver, and social entrepreneur Paul Newman’s endorsement, which catapulted it to fame. This configuration has been featured In several vintage references, such as the 6263 and 6265 editions. It has also been featured on the modern 116500LN and 126500LN editions.
Honouring evolution has always been something that Rolex has stood for as a brand, and today's newer releases offer a fresh case shape and dial design with many features, including diamond inlays and various strap colours. However, those looking for the Panda will continue to seek out the traditional black-and-white model.
Firstly, the 16520 ‘Zenith’ had a great impact on the watch-collecting community, with its beautiful design embodying the brand’s values of high-quality materials and precision engineering, coupled with the iconic contrasting black and white dial, creating a unique timepiece.
This model reference features a highly sought-after Calibre 4030 Self-Winding Movement which is a combination of parts from both Zenith El Primero and Rolex. It is exclusive to this model and is highly sought-after by avid Rolex collectors.
Since the discontinuation of the popular reference 116520 Rolex Daytona back in 2016, buyers looking to purchase this model have had no choice but to turn towards the secondary market. Even though the current production stainless steel Daytona isn’t easily obtainable, the reference 116520 is still an excellent timepiece value-wise, given its superior in-house movement and modern style when compared to the current models.
Additionally, the popular pre-owned market still has plenty of these timepieces available.
The 116500LN, launched in 2016 and discontinued in 2023, has the shortest production run of any steel Daytona in the last 30 years. The unique panda-like dial immediately drew attention, with its striking black and white design. Adding to the already-elevated aesthetic is the ceramic case and bezel, which create an extra layer of shine. It is easy to see why this watch has become a sought-after collector’s item in such a short amount of time.
The latest offering, released in 2023 on the 60th anniversary of the Daytona, saw Rolex overhaul its entire chronograph range.
Here, we take a look at the updated Rolex Daytona Panda reference 126500LN. With its subtle design changes, Rolex has taken the iconic chronograph to the next level. For starters, the new case design is more contemporary in appearance, yet still preserves the original design that made the watch so popular.
The new dial has been upgraded with thinner rings around the three sub-dials and longer, thinner indices, while the Cerachrom ceramic bezel now features a metallic edge. These subtle changes are all part of what makes the new reference 126500LN stand out from the discontinued reference 116500LN Daytona.
The Rolex Panda Daytona has maintained its iconic status amongst timepiece connoisseurs and collectors, with hardly any changes being made to its design. It continues to boast impressive features such as Oysterflex, Oysterlock, Easylink, Triplock, Parachrom, Paraflex and Chromolight as well as a unique ceramic bezel with a metallic edge.
Rolex has added further modifications by introducing a Glidelock bracelet extension system and offering stainless steel references with an Oysterflex rubber strap. With these new additions, it’s clear that Rolex has placed the Panda Daytona at the top of its priority list. The Cosmograph Daytona continues to be one of the foremost references in watchmaking for its unique elegance.
It is undeniable that this watch is as iconic as it is sought after. Due to the rarity of the Rolex Daytona Panda, it has gained a reputation as a smart investment, often with extensive waiting lists for new releases. BQ Watches should be your partner to buy, sell, exchange, and get valuation services for pre-owned luxury timepieces, including the Rolex Daytona Panda timepieces. Feel free to contact us if you don’t find the dream wristwatch in our inventory and we will source that one for you!
It can be worth looking at pre-owned options, as generally these are usually in excellent condition and will have the original box and papers for your peace of mind.
Whilst the Rolex Daytona Panda is hard to come by, it’s worth keeping an eye on our page as we curate and update our stock regularly.
Please feel free to browse some of the Pandas we currently have in stock.
