Daytona and Space/Aviation

[jmpille]

I'm looking for more info on the Daytona's relationship with space and aviation.

I know that Rolex has used the term "Cosmograph" which to me means "space or cosmic chronograph" before on other watches with moonphase indicators and such. What I'm getting at is does anyone know if the Cosmograph Daytona was really designed for Astronauts and then re-marketed as a racing watch later on?

I myself both race cars and fly small single engine prop planes and see the advantages of the Daytona in both areas and that is why it is my favorite watch of all time. To me personally I see the Daytona as a pilot's watch and the GMT-II more for someone who just travels a lot. Opinions?

[Tools]

It's just a name.. Rolex has never made any effort to get into space or identify with the Space Program (except the known history that many Astronauts wore GMT's as their personal time-piece)

Cosmograph is one of hundreds of names trademarked by Rolex and seems to be the one settled on for their Chronograph flagship.

They began badging the Cosmograph with "Daytona" in the early 60's to appeal to the, then-new, NASCAR scene that was sweeping the country.

Now they are all badged Daytona, and that name has overshadowed the original Cosmograph name..

[MATCH1969]

Except GMT, don ´t see dedicated Rolex for Space or Airplane pilot.