The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116508 is one of the most recognisable precious-metal Daytona references: a 40 mm chronograph in 18ct yellow gold with a matching Oyster bracelet and fixed tachymetric bezel.
This guide compares the 116508 Black Diamond, 116508 Tahitian Mother-of-Pearl Diamond and the closely related 116509 Tahitian Mother-of-Pearl Diamond in white gold, while explaining calibre 4130, factory-dial originality, condition and the checks that matter when buying pre-owned.
Rolex Daytona 116508 at a glance
Compare three current Daytona examples
Three precious-metal Daytonas, each with a different dial and visual character. All three are currently recorded in Pristine Condition with original Rolex box, papers and manual/booklet.
Black Diamond vs Tahitian Mother-of-Pearl Diamond
Black Diamond
A more graphic, high-contrast appearance. The dark dial makes the yellow-gold case and bracelet more pronounced, while the factory diamond hour markers add a jewellery-led finish.
Tahitian MOP Diamond
More variable and expressive. Natural mother-of-pearl can shift between charcoal, grey, green, purple and bronze tones depending on lighting and viewing angle.
Factory dial vs aftermarket modification
For a diamond-dial or mother-of-pearl Rolex, originality matters. A watch can have diamonds or an unusual dial without that configuration having been fitted by Rolex. Factory-original and aftermarket-modified watches are not the same proposition.
At Imperial Time, watches are inspected before sale and identifying details, condition and mechanical presentation are reviewed as part of the authentication process. Learn more about our watch authentication service.
The Rolex calibre 4130
Both reference 116508 and 116509 belong to the Daytona generation powered by the Rolex calibre 4130, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement with an approximately 72-hour power reserve.
The display includes central chronograph seconds, a 30-minute counter, a 12-hour chronograph counter and separate small seconds. These references do not have a date or day/date display.
116508 vs 116509: yellow gold or white gold?
18ct Yellow Gold
Warmer, more immediately recognisable precious-metal presence. The gold case, bezel and bracelet create a stronger visual statement.
18ct White Gold
More restrained from a distance while retaining the weight and feel of a full precious-metal Daytona.
Bracelet, box and papers
Bracelet condition matters on a pre-owned precious-metal Daytona. Buyers should consider link count, wear, clasp condition, previous refinishing and the maximum wrist size the bracelet will comfortably accommodate.
Original accessories do not authenticate a watch on their own, but box, papers, manuals, card holders, tags and service records can strengthen provenance and completeness. For any specific watch, the listing should state exactly what is included.
Why “Used” and “Pristine Condition” can both be correct
Marketplace classifications such as Used or Pre-owned are broad commerce categories. A customer-facing condition description can be more specific. A watch can therefore be categorised as used for Google or eBay while being described as Pristine Condition when its cosmetic state supports that description.
What to check before buying a Daytona 116508 or 116509
Confirm case, dial, bracelet and bezel are appropriate for the reference.
Establish whether a diamond or mother-of-pearl dial is factory Rolex or aftermarket.
Review close-up images of the case, bezel, bracelet, clasp and dial.
Confirm link count and approximate maximum wrist size.
Check winding, setting, chronograph operation and timekeeping.
Confirm exactly which documentation and accessories are supplied.
Establish whether manufacturer or seller warranty applies and review the terms.
Buy from a dealer able to explain condition, originality and provenance clearly.
View and compare Rolex Daytona watches in person
Imperial Time UK Ltd is an independent luxury-watch and fine-jewellery specialist established in 2015. Selected watches can be viewed at our showroom at 79 Kensington Church Street, London W8 4BG.
Also considering a change? Sell or part-exchange or request a professional valuation.
Rolex Daytona 116508 & 116509 FAQ
Is the Rolex Daytona 116508 made from yellow gold?
Yes. Reference 116508 uses an 18ct yellow-gold Oyster case and matching yellow-gold Oyster bracelet.
What is the difference between Rolex Daytona 116508 and 116509?
The key difference is the case and bracelet metal. Reference 116508 is yellow gold, while reference 116509 is white gold. Both belong to the calibre 4130 Daytona generation.
What movement is inside the 116508 and 116509?
Both references use the self-winding Rolex calibre 4130 chronograph movement with an approximately 72-hour power reserve.
Do these Daytona references have a date?
No. The 116508 and 116509 do not have a date or day/date display.
Does Rolex make factory diamond and mother-of-pearl Daytona dials?
Factory diamond-set and mother-of-pearl dial configurations exist within the Daytona range. For any individual pre-owned watch, the originality of the fitted dial should be verified rather than assumed from photographs alone.
Can I compare these watches in London?
Yes. When the watches are in stock, a private viewing can be arranged at Imperial Time's Kensington showroom.
