Artisans de GenèveDaytona

Offered by a private collector, this 2021 Artisans de Geneve “Mika Hakkinen Challenge” is accompanied by its presentation box, papers, spare leather strap and loupe. The vendor advises the watch is unworn and its condition appears to be consistent with the vendor’s AAA grading.

Since 2005, Les Artisans de Geneve have customised and modified watches exclusively for individual clients. Their client list includes sporting stars and artists for whom the bespoke watchmakers combine traditional Swiss techniques with modern technology to remodel and transform standard manufacturer specifications.

This Rolex Daytona, which started life as a white gold ref. 116509, was created for double Formula 1 world champion, Mika Häkkinen. It blends classic watchmaking codes and the high-speed world of Formula 1. The dial has been entirely open-worked and features blue and orange accents - explicitly chosen by Hakkinen to recall the race tracks where he achieved success. The coloured accents also extend to the crown, which has been given a sporty blue stripe. The custom bezel is constructed from a patented Grade 5 titanium which is sandblasted and adorned with an engraved tachymeter scale. The dial has been cut out with a symmetrical rendering, reminiscent of sportscar racing. It too is sandblasted, then finished with an anthracite coating.

Inside the case, Rolex’s 4130 movement has been skeletonised in homage to a Formula 1 engine, and a sapphire crystal on the watch’s underside offers a window to view the expertly modified calibre.

This example is believed to be the only Mika Hakkinen Challenge specified in white gold with an automatic movement, taking this already rare watch to new heights in collectability. 

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