The Exact Rolex Watch River Joseph Wears on Repeat

Among horological enthusiasts, the Cosmograph Daytona is considered one of Rolex’s most esteemed creations.

The model was first introduced in 1963, shortly after Rolex became the official timekeeper for the 24 Hours of Daytona endurance race the previous year. Built specifically for professional drivers, the chronograph was named after Florida’s famed speedway and has since become one of the brand’s most iconic silhouettes.

Originally launched with a hand-wound movement, the Daytona has undergone several technical upgrades through the years, including the addition of automatic winding and in-house calibers. Six decades on, it remains one of the most in-demand designs in Rolex’s portfolio—beloved not just for its association with racing, but also for its connection with American actor and film director Paul Newman, who made the timepiece his trademark back in the 80s. Today, it’s recognized as both a collector’s grail and a status symbol of luxury and prestige.

Functionally, the Cosmograph Daytona is prized for its high-precision chronograph capabilities, including a tachymetric bezel, stopwatch counters, and responsive pushers—details engineered for measuring elapsed intervals, distance, and computing average speed, particularly in racing environments.

The version seen on River Joseph features a white dial offset by contrasting subdials, hallmarks of the classic Daytona aesthetic. It’s secured by a two-tone Oyster bracelet and framed by a prominent yellow gold bezel etched with a tachymetric scale.

According to the official Rolex website, this exact model carries a retail price of approximately P1.2 million. However, as with most highly-coveted luxury timepieces, availability is limited, often resulting in extensive waitlists. For those eager to skip the queue, secondary markets offer a faster alternative, though expect prices to exceed the original retail value.