Four unique Cosmograph Daytona models raised £GBP37.3 million ($AUD71 million) at Phillips in London on 28 September. According to Phillips, the sale marked Rolex’s first charity auction and the largest single consignment ever sold in one.
Proceeds will benefit the Federer Foundation, founded by tennis superstar Roger Federer to support early and foundational learning in Southern Africa and Switzerland. The second beneficiary is Re:wild, a global ecosystem protection and restoration organisation co-founded by award-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio.
Each watch was designed around one of the four seasons, combining precious metals, natural-stone dials, coloured gemstones and diamonds. Aurel Bacs, senior consultant at Phillips, described the event as a historic moment in watchmaking.
“It was a privilege to stand on the rostrum and witness the energy and passion in the room, united by shared values of excellence, craftsmanship and, above all, a commitment to making a positive difference," he said.
The extraordinary amount raised will make a meaningful contribution to future generations and to the protection of our natural world.”
The Summer Daytona achieved the highest result at £GBP10.3 million ($AUD19.6 million). Made in 18-carat Everose gold, it features a turquoise dial with heart-of-ruby counters, pink sapphire hour markers, and a matching bezel. 54 brilliant-cut diamonds complete the design.
The Autumn Daytona sold for £GBP10.2 million ($AUD19.4 million). Its 18-carat yellow gold case houses a mookaite dial with chrysoprase counters, while green tourmalines and diamonds complete its design.
The Winter Daytona, crafted in platinum, fetched £GBP10 million ($AUD19 million). It features a blue opal dial with lapis lazuli counters, diamond hour markers and a blue-to-fuchsia sapphire bezel.
The Spring Daytona sold for £GBP6.8 million ($AUD12.9 million). It is made in 18-carat white gold with a chrysoprase dial, lepidolite counters, purple sapphires and diamonds.
The auction was conducted without a buyer’s premium, ensuring the full amount raised went to both organisations.
More reading
Cartier Crash sets staggering auction record
Rolex Daytona Rainbow shatters Australian auction record
Blue diamonds command huge returns at auction
Rare blue diamond captures hearts and minds at auction
$35 million return for jadeite necklace at auction