To Collect is to Dream: An Ode to the Art of Discovery
The allure of collecting is much more than the accumulation of rare objects—it is an endless pursuit of dreams and an exploration of beauty and craftsmanship that continues to evolve. This sentiment is at the heart of PHILLIPS' latest short film, "Chasing the Rainbow," an evocative narrative inspired by the legend surrounding one of the most enigmatic and elusive timepieces in horological history: the first-ever Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Rainbow’ Ref. 16599SAAEC.
The myth of the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow takes center stage in this cinematic journey. As the story unfolds, we follow a modern-day adventurer scaling mountains, braving rugged terrain, and chasing elusive horizons—all in search of a legendary treasure. Much like the journey of collecting itself, the film reminds us that the ultimate value lies in the quest and in the stories we discover along the way.
The Rolex Daytona ‘Rainbow’ Ref. 16599SAAEC: A Treasure Beyond Compare
At the heart of this tale lies an unparalleled watch, a testament to Rolex’s bold, avant-garde spirit from the mid-1990s. The ‘Rainbow’ Daytona Ref. 16599SAAEC, crafted in 1994, was the first of its kind and predated Rolex's decision to produce this watch in serial numbers, nearly 20 years later. Studded with vibrant, graduated gemstones, the watch’s bezel forms a colorful spectrum—truly embodying the mythical pot of gold and capturing the rare alchemy of artistry and technical precision. With an estimated auction value surpassing CHF 3 million, this Rolex Daytona is set to be a cornerstone of PHILLIPS’ upcoming auction, Reloaded: The Rebirth of Mechanical Watchmaking, 1980–1999, scheduled for November 8 at Geneva’s Hotel President.
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Dream
Crafting such a compelling narrative required not only creative storytelling but also an impressive team and setting. The film, written by Arthur Touchot and directed by Arthur Touchais, brought together a diverse crew of talented filmmakers, from drone specialists like Alexandre Coquoz to alpine cinematographer Sebastian Maflin. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Alps, this team captured both the spirit of adventure and the mystique of this legendary timepiece.
A Production Powered by Passion and Precision
The film is a collaborative effort, produced in partnership with Take Time Films, Everest Studio, and 8849 – 3D VFX, bringing a distinct fusion of real-world cinematography and digital artistry. The team also extends a heartfelt thanks to The Gstaad Palace, Kidston SA, and Zegna, whose contributions made this project possible.
Discover the Legendary ‘Rainbow’
As the watch heads to auction, Follow the Rainbow serves as both an homage to the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona and an invitation to collectors around the world. For those who share a passion for discovery, this film captures the thrill of chasing dreams, finding hidden treasures, and immortalizing moments in time.