Rolex Daytona 116518LN Yellow Gold Meteorite Dial (2022)

The Rolex Daytona Ref. 116518LN introduces a distinctive variant within the Daytona line: crafted in 18k yellow gold, fitted with a meteorite dial and paired with an Oysterflex strap and black Cerachrom ceramic bezel. This reference marks one of the rare intersections of high-luxury materials, advanced chronograph heritage and unconventional dial material in the Rolex sports category. The meteorite dial alone elevates this example into collector territory and immediately sets it apart from standard Daytona offerings.

The case measures 40 mm in diameter and is executed in solid 18k yellow gold, while the bezel is a black Cerachrom ceramic insert bearing the tachymetric scale — a modern touch that injects a sporty contrast to the precious metal. The meteorite dial, sourced from extraterrestrial material, reveals natural Widmanstätten patterns beneath applied gold hour markers and black sub-dials. The Oysterflex strap—composed of flexible metal blades overmoulded with elastomer—ensures a snug and modern fit while retaining the luxury of full-gold behind the scenes. The result is a wrist presence that balances boldness (yellow gold) with contemporary sport-luxury, and a dial texture few wristwatches possess.

Functionally, this watch remains a full-fledged chronograph: central sweep seconds, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, and small seconds at 6 o’clock. The tachymetric bezel allows for average-speed calculations up to 400 units per hour. While the movement (in-house calibre) underpins performance, the emphasis here is on the chronograph function married to rare material expression. The ceramic bezel offering scratch-resistance and the Oysterflex strap adding comfort underscore this reference’s fusion of form and function.

From the collector’s perspective, the Ref. 116518LN with meteorite dial appeals to those who want a statement-luxury chronograph that retains sporty DNA but wears differently from the conventional yellow-gold/steel bracelet combos. The meteorite dial brings visible rarity (no two dials look the same), and the combination of gold, ceramic and elastomer offers material diversity. The level of scarcity, combined with the premium metal execution and modern strap/bracelet flexibility, positions this reference as an advanced acquisition for seasoned collectors rather than an entry sports watch.