$500,000 3rd Generation Rolex Rainbow Daytona Auction Announcement
The auction of a third‑generation Rolex Rainbow Daytona, Ref. 126598 RBOW, will take place on 12 July in Australia, where it will be offered alongside a collection of high‑end timepieces valued at over $2 million. The watch, produced in limited numbers for Rolex’s most valued customers, has never appeared at auction before and is expected to sell close to its market value, which currently hovers around $460 000 after a recent price cooling from a 2025 peak of $580 000. First State Auctions is setting a starting price of $150 000, and the piece will be accompanied by its Certificate of Authenticity, Rolex International Warranty card dated 2024, and original Rolex box. The sale follows a broader trend of record‑breaking watch auctions, with other notable items including a diamond‑set Richard Mille 016, an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, and an 18‑carat gold Rolex Submariner.
Buying Time Analysis: This story highlights the unprecedented auction of a 3rd‑generation Rolex Rainbow Daytona, underscoring its rarity, record‑setting price expectations, and the shifting market dynamics for ultra‑luxury timepieces.
