Sales of vintage Rolex knockoffs have soared. Today, many believe that antique fake Hoyle chronologies are “the next best thing” that won’t get you into six figures, and they’ve seen their prosperity over the past few years. Obscure and underrated works like Monza’s have risen modestly in value and popularity. Any group has some kind of outlier, and so far, Rolex Daytona is firmly in that position.
The fake Rolex Daytona is a rare bird because its birthing cycle is only from 1976 to 1980. It comes in two dials — the blue you see here, and the smoky gray. Both dials have a biodegradable finish, which means the color darkens subtly as it moves from the center of the dial to the outside edge. Besides, this is one of the few Rolex models that feature integrated bracelets, which means you’ll never find a leather or rubber strap.
Unfortunately, the connection point of the case is sometimes a badly worn weak link, if the bracelet or case is partially damaged, the owner does not have too many maintenance options. It’s also worth noting that the replica watch was one of the last new collections of watches to be fitted with Heuer’s Caliber 12 automatic movement, as it wasn’t long before the brand started moving towards the now much more common Valjoux 7750.
As for dimensions, its case is a modest 39mm across though it is anything but petite on the wrist. Its case is relatively thick, and due to how the bracelet mounts to the case along with the thickness of its caseback, it sits a little proud when on the wrist. I’m the first to admit it that took some time getting used to it, though given its tapered bracelet design it wears quite comfortably.
Interestingly, both dial variants of the replica Rolex Daytona have been aging very gracefully over the years. Because of a bit of instability in its finish, fading is quite common on vintage Daytona models. While some can be quite excessive if they’ve spent a lot of their life in the sun, most fade more subtly and uniformly. The same can be said for their indices and hands, which commonly take on a much more creamy tone over time when compared to the stark white color they started their life with.
Though quite distinct in design when compared to its siblings, a few design details from other Rolex chronographs are echoed in this model. Its fluted pushers, slightly recessed into its case, are a direct crossover from other models, as is the raised Rolex logo on its crown. You’ll also note a stamped Rolex logo on its bracelet clasp – sadly an item that saw replacement on my personal example before it arrived in my possession.
At the end of the day, its case proportions and integrated bracelet will always leave the Daytona as a bit of an “acquired taste” for collectors. It will never see the fame of Monaco, nor will it see the collector appeal of other replica Rolex models that have been reborn as reissues.