It is not often that Rolex releases piece unique watches. Yes, there may be rare, off-catalogue pieces, but hardly any are one-offs — until now. Rolex has unveiled four unique Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona watches to be auctioned in four lots at a charity auction in partnership with Phillips on 28 September 2026.

As part of Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, proceeds from the auction will benefit two organisations founded by Rolex Testimonees Roger Federer and Leonardo DiCaprio. These two organisations’ missions resonate directly with Rolex’s vision for a more sustainable planet by supporting future generations and protecting nature. The Feder Foundation, founded by Roger Federer in 2003, supports children in Southern Africa and Switzerland by strengthening early and foundational learning systems. Re:wild, co-founded by Leonardo DiCaprio alongside a group of renowned conservation scientists, supports locally led conservation efforts to address devastation caused by climate change and biodiversity loss. “True excellence is measured not only by the quality of our products, but also by the positive impact we can have on the world,” says Jean-Frédéric Dufour, CEO of Rolex SA.

And now, on to the four unicorn watches. Earlier in September, news of these watches surfaced on Hodinkee, where Ben Clymer gave an interesting backstory and some insights about the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona watches. While the news was shrouded in secrecy and hushed murmurs back then, it is now publicised. Each of the four Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona watches is emblematic of the natural beauty of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Rolex’s creativity and distinct approach in gem-setting is on full display with colours, gemstones and finishes that evoke each season’s cycle.

Currently, Paul Newman’s personal Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona holds the record for being the most expensive Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona ever to be sold. While all eyes will be on the final hammer price on 28 September 2026, the more important objective is to secure and preserve the natural world for future generations.

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