LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
ARTS & COLLECTIBLES
A SPECTRUM OF LUXURY
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Rainbow’ ref. 16599, a rare and dazzling masterpiece from the 1990s, will make its auction debut at Phillips’ “Reloaded: The Rebirth of Mechanical Watchmaking 1980-1999” in Geneva, offering collectors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire this iconic timepiece, expected to fetch in excess of CHF 3 million.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Rainbow’ ref. 16599 is a masterpiece that defies convention and elevates horological artistry to dazzling heights. Born in the 1990s as a one-of-a-kind creation, this extraordinary timepiece stands out with its bezel adorned with a gradient of sapphires, transitioning from deep reds to purples, reminiscent of the hues of a rainbow. Unlike anything the watch market had seen before, the Daytona ‘Rainbow’ broke the mold of traditional design with its vibrant color scheme and exclusivity.
Now recognized as one of Rolex’s most elusive and revered models, the Rainbow Daytona ref. 16599 has a unique place in the brand’s legacy. Its release set the stage for future iterations, yet this original piece remains unmatched in rarity and design. Hidden from public view for decades, it emerges from a private collection to make its auction debut, offering collectors an unprecedented opportunity to acquire a piece of horological history.
This November, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Rainbow’ ref. 16599 will be auctioned at the prestigious “Reloaded: The Rebirth of Mechanical Watchmaking 1980-1999” auction by Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo. Taking place in Geneva, this auction celebrates the mechanical ingenuity and craftsmanship that marked a renaissance for the watch industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Expected to fetch in excess of CHF 3 million, this iconic timepiece will be one of the most sought-after highlights of the event. For collectors, this auction represents a rare chance to own a piece of Rolex history—an exquisite fusion of luxury, rarity, and technical brilliance.
As one of the most exclusive watches ever crafted by Rolex, the Rainbow Daytona ref. 16599’s auction marks a historic moment in horology. Collectors and enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to witness, and potentially own, this exceptional masterpiece that has captivated the world of fine watchmaking. Whether it remains in the hands of a connoisseur or passes into a new legacy, the Rainbow Daytona is a symbol of Rolex’s innovative spirit and a beacon of luxury at its highest echelon.