Long before the Rolex Daytona became synonymous with glamour and luxury, gracing the wrists of the rich and famous, it was a modest brand struggling to make sales.

What began in 1937 as the "Chronograph" and boasted state-of-the-art Swiss Valjoux movement really didn't come into its own until the 1960s with the substitution of the flashy word "Cosmograph." With men landing on the moon and astronaut worship all the rage, people began to take notice of the watch's streamlined form, waterproofing and unique bezel feature that could accurately measure the average lap speed at races. The latter feature skyrocketed the watch's fame in race car driving circles, especially at Daytona Beach, as it became the go-to men's watch.

Actor Paul Newman famously wore the style, which he received as a gift from his wife Joanne Woodward, when he started racing.

The first of two series of Cosmograph Daytona were issued in the 1960s and '80s, but by the '90s, the watch was re-worked into the second series, which included Zenith modified movement. This, combined with a limited production run, granted the watch cult status.

In 1995's film, "Leaving Las Vegas," the style even managed a reference in the dialog. Actor Nicolas Cage plays a fired alcoholic movie exec that can be seen pawning his watch for liquor money. "Five hundred dollars for a '93 Rolex Daytona," he says, "I'll do it!" That same watch is valued at around $16,000-$19,000 now, depending on its condition. The popularity of the style has spawned countless knock-offs, so buyers must be careful to only purchase the watch from fine retailers and legitimate antiques dealers. True Rolex watches have an array of details and reference numbers that help verify their authenticity.

For those lucky enough to own an older model in the Miami area, it might be wise to get it appraised. Exquisite Jewelers of Miami, for example, specializes in repair and appraisals, in addition to carrying fine men's and women's jewelry and watches. Wearing flashy jewelry is a Miami way of life, so investing in a good watch, such as the Daytona, is key to enjoying the good life while still managing to look professional.