2016 Rolex Daytona Models (photo: Rolex/Ryu Euiseok)

Baselworld 2016 saw the introduction of the stainless steel Daytona featuring a black Cerachrom bezel and either a black dial or a white dial like the one shown above in the center. The 116500LN is hard to get your hands on, with waiting lists and premiums required at most Authorized Dealers. The contrasting black and white dial and sub-dials harken back to Daytona models of the 1960s and the ceramic bezel is virtually scratch-proof. For those who prefer a combination of steel with gold, Rolex offers the Daytona in two tone configurations, like the one above on the left. You can choose between a white, mother of pearl, yellow gold or black dial with or without diamonds. If white gold is more to your liking, the watchmaker offers a white gold configuration with a blue dial, shown above on the right. It is also available with a silver or black dial, making the white gold configurations the perfect option for someone who wants a sleek configuration that isn't too flashy.

Available with a white, mother of pearl, yellow gold, black or green dial (shown above), the yellow gold Daytona offers the most formal configuration. The green dial combination looks more like a piece of fine jewelry than a tool watch. The monochromatic dial is not as legible as the contrasting dial on the steel configuration, but it makes up for it by offering an exotic and aesthetically pleasing color combination. In addition to white gold and yellow gold, the Cosmograph Daytona is also offered in Everose gold, Rolex's proprietary rose gold alloy cast in their foundry. Below on the left is the Everose gold configuration on a black alligator leather strap that features a black Cerachrom bezel insert and a chocolate dial. The rose gold version also comes on an Oyster bracelet, shown on the right, with dial options that include pink, black and ivory. This is a popular configuration amongst fashionistas like model Rosie Huntington-Whitely.

2016 Rolex Daytona Models (photo: Rolex/Joey Kyber)

To mark the 50th anniversary of the Daytona, Rolex released the platinum configuration shown above in the middle with an ice blue dial and chestnut brown Cerachrom bezel. Known as the 'Platona' by enthusiasts, this configuration combines the most beloved features of the model in cool colors that give this precious metal configuration an aesthetic that is unique and pleasing to the eye. While the price tag of the platinum configuration makes it a grail watch for most, it represents the watchmaker's commitment to offering a variety of Daytona configurations to meet the needs and desires of a diverse group of admirers. Rolex has been tied to the Daytona International Speedway for half a century and their popular chronograph solidifies the lasting relationship between the racing community and the luxury watchmaker. For more information on the Cosmograph Daytona model, visit rolex.com.