Rolex is using a new evolution of the excellent 4130 caliber that was introduced back in 2000 with the first six digit reference of the model, the 116520. The new movement is called the 4131, and while doesn’t seem to stray too far from the formula used in the 4130, it does welcome the Rolex Chronergy escapement, and a new, more efficient, ball bearing at the center of the automatic winding system, among other things. If you haven’t caught on by now, Rolex plays the long game, with slow evolutions separating generations rather than leaps. Iteration is the name of the game here and the new Daytona, from every angle inside and out, represents that. Obligatory comparison to the Porsche 911 inserted here.
This leaves us with, for all intents and purposes, a very good chronograph that’s slowly crept up in price to now cross over the $15k line. It may seem silly to judge it based on that price, but that’s what Rolex is saying it’s worth, and I think they’re close. At $12-13k the Daytona is a great watch, and I’d apply that to this new reference as well. At $15k, I’d say it’s no longer punching above its weight, but rather, right at it.
From my perspective, there have always been, and continues to be more interesting watches available at this price point, but none that quite take into consideration an intangible element of usability in the same manner that Rolex does. I don’t mean technical usability, I mean easy to get along with all day every day, goes with anything, looks-good-scuffed-up-a-bit kind of usability. Watches become interesting for the experiences that they allow the wearer, and the Daytona is still hands-down one of the great chronographs on wrist. It might be a new generation, but it still felt like putting on that favorite pair of well worn jeans: Imperfect, but pretty damn cozy and practical.
We’ll go deeper on this watch when we’re able to get more time with it, and get some answers about the ongoing amplitude issues affecting newer calibers, and that might impact the 4131. Until then, learn more from Rolex.
