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Le Mans, France--Rolex made a surprise announcement during the 24 Hours of Le Mans by unveiling a Cosmograph Daytona celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the famous car race.

Crafted in 18k white gold, this new watch sports a Cerachrom bezel in black ceramic; on the tachymetric scale. The number “100” in red ceramic evokes the race’s centenary. Providing contrast against the black dial are white counters whose graphic design is inspired by a traditional Rolex dial. The Oyster case is fitted with a transparent back and an Oyster bracelet.

[Photo credit: Rolex]

“Rolex does it again releasing a new model Daytona over the weekend to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the Le Mans race. Take my money now,” says Paul Altieri, founder and CEO of Bob’s Watches, the largest pre-owned Rolex e-comm marketplace. “Love the Panda dial as it harkens back to the vintage days of the model 6263. What a sensational release and it is expected to be a permanent addition to The Crown’s lineup.”

The timepiece is equipped with the caliber 4132, which allows the hours of the chronograph function to be counted over 24 hours – another nod to the race – instead of the model’s usual 12 hours. This movement incorporates the Chronergy escapement, Paraflex shock absorbers, and bridges decorated with Rolex Côtes de Genève. The cut-out oscillating weight in 18k yellow gold is fitted with an optimized ball bearing. Like all Rolex watches, this special version of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona carries the Superlative Chronometer certification.

“We’ve often seen prices move higher in the category when a new model is unveiled,” Altieri adds. “We will have to see what the premiums will be on the secondary market as getting your hands ( or wrists ) on one will be challenging.”