Introduction to a Rare Timepiece

A legendary timepiece is about to step into the spotlight. A 1999 platinum Rolex Daytona is heading to auction on Sunday at Sotheby’s Geneva, and could sell for up to $1.7 million. The watch is made from platinum, a material Rolex did not use on Daytona models until 2013. Its face is mother-of-pearl, set with 10 diamonds. Unlike nearly every other Rolex on the market, it was not part of a standard collection. It was privately commissioned, custom-made for a client — something almost unheard of for Rolex.

The Uniqueness of the Watch

Only four of these watches are known to exist, made for the same family, each with a different dial. The watch heading to the auction block is the last one to be sold. The others have already gone for massive prices, topping $3 million. There is big hype around this small work of metal. It is believed to have been created under the leadership of Patrick Heiniger, Rolex’s CEO from 1992 to 2008. He ran the company during a time of major growth and secrecy and helped turn Rolex from a respected watch brand into a global luxury icon.

Expert Insights

"It’s very unusual to come across a commission," said Pedro Reiser, senior watch specialist at Sotheby’s. "There are other brands which might be more flexible and do these kinds of exercises, maybe on a regular basis — but not in the space of Rolex pieces where you barely can come across any commission whatsoever." While rumors have swirled that Heiniger personally commissioned or wore a similar platinum Daytona, Reiser cautions that there is no confirmed link to this watch. "That’s more of a rumor," Reiser said. "Personally, I’ve never seen him with this piece, but I know that he used to love platinum watches — mainly Day-Date models. It’s a nice story that accompanies the watch, but I think it’s more of a myth."

Historical Significance

The fact that Rolex made a platinum Daytona in 1999, long before it introduced platinum models publicly in 2013, is a major part of the watch’s mystique. "Back then, they only existed in stainless steel, yellow gold and white gold," Reiser said. "Having a platinum — the only known platinum Zenith Daytona — is very special." Rolex didn’t begin producing platinum Daytonas until 2013, making this 1999 custom-ordered timepiece a historic anomaly in the brand’s legacy.

Distinct Features

This particular model stands apart even from its siblings. "This is the only one that has a diamond-set dial," Reiser said. "The others had dark mother-of-pearl, lapis lazuli and turquoise stone dials, but no diamonds." As more people, especially wealthy collectors and younger buyers, increasingly see rare watches as investments, the prices of these rare timepieces have climbed.

Market Trends

According to Knight Frank’s latest index, watches have jumped more than 125% in value over the past decade, ranking them among the top-performing luxury investments, just behind rare whisky and high-end designer furniture. Even after a slight cooling, with prices rising only 1.7% over the past year, the five-year growth rate for watches of 52.7% signals the category remains a reliable long-term play. Demand has only broadened, with more international buyers and a wave of under-30 collectors entering the market, Reiser said.

Conclusion

The 1999 platinum Rolex Daytona is a rare and unique timepiece that is set to fetch a high price at auction. Its historical significance, distinct features, and the growing demand for luxury watches make it a highly sought-after item. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new entrant in the market, this watch is sure to generate a lot of interest.

FAQs

Q: How many of these watches are known to exist?
A: Only four of these watches are known to exist, made for the same family, each with a different dial.
Q: What is unique about this watch?
A: This watch is made from platinum, a material Rolex did not use on Daytona models until 2013, and its face is mother-of-pearl, set with 10 diamonds.
Q: Who is believed to have created this watch?
A: It is believed to have been created under the leadership of Patrick Heiniger, Rolex’s CEO from 1992 to 2008.
Q: What is the expected price of the watch at auction?
A: The watch could sell for up to $1.7 million.
Q: Why are luxury watches becoming increasingly popular as investments?
A: Luxury watches have jumped more than 125% in value over the past decade, ranking them among the top-performing luxury investments, and the demand has only broadened with more international buyers and a wave of under-30 collectors entering the market.

Introduction to ESPN’s New Streaming Service

A general view of the ESPN logo on a camera at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 6, 2024. At long last, ESPN has chosen a name for its upcoming all-access streaming service. The name of the service is "ESPN." Disney’s sports media division will announce the new name at a media event next week, according to people familiar with the matter who declined to be named speaking about not-yet-public details.

Features of the New Streaming Service

Disney executives have referred to the streaming product, which is expected to cost $25 or $30 a month, as "flagship" internally for the past two years as they have developed the service. It will consist of everything ESPN has to offer, including all games; programming on other ESPN cable networks such as ESPN2 and the SEC Network; ESPN on ABC; fantasy products; new betting tie-ins; studio programming; documentaries and more.

Difference from ESPN+

This will differ from ESPN’s current streaming product ESPN+, which does not include the most-watched live games, such as Monday Night Football, that currently only air exclusively on traditional pay-TV. ESPN+ costs $11.99 per month and can be bundled with Disney+ and Hulu for $16.99 per month with commercials. ESPN+ will remain a less expensive offering for consumers, according to people familiar with the matter.

Reason for the Name Choice

ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro decided to name the application ESPN to simplify what has become a cluttered streaming world, filled with different media products that can be bundled with other services at different price points, according to those people. The new ESPN streaming service is a new distribution mechanism, but most of the content is not new. Rather, the launch is about introducing consumers to a different way customers can access ESPN’s programming.

Access to the New Service

The ESPN mobile application will be reimagined and act as the gateway to the all-access service on smart TVs and devices. Pay-TV subscribers who already get ESPN will automatically be able to authenticate into the new app to get the digital bells and whistles that are not available through cable TV. That overlap also played into executives’ decision to maintain uniformity with the name ESPN, rather than a different name that may increase confusion, the people said.

Pricing and Availability

ESPN will next week announce the pricing of the application, as well as associated bundled discounts, Disney CEO Bob Iger said Wednesday during Disney’s quarterly earnings conference call. ESPN has previously said the service will debut in the fall.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ESPN’s new all-access streaming service will be called "ESPN" and will offer a wide range of content, including games, programming, and fantasy products. The service will be available for $25 or $30 a month and will differ from ESPN’s current streaming product ESPN+. The new service is expected to debut in the fall and will be available on smart TVs and devices.

FAQs

Q: What is the name of ESPN’s new streaming service?

A: The name of ESPN’s new streaming service is "ESPN".

Q: How much will the new streaming service cost?

A: The new streaming service is expected to cost $25 or $30 a month.

Q: What content will be available on the new streaming service?

A: The new streaming service will offer a wide range of content, including games, programming, and fantasy products.

Q: Will the new streaming service replace ESPN+?

A: No, ESPN+ will remain a less expensive offering for consumers.

Q: When will the new streaming service be available?

A: The new streaming service is expected to debut in the fall.

As political impacts on workplaces continue to rise, effective communication is crucial for success. In today’s fast-paced, globally connected world, the political landscape can significantly influence the workplace, making it essential to navigate these challenges with ease. With the ever-changing political climate, employees and employers must be aware of the potential pitfalls that can arise and develop strategies to overcome them.

Understanding the Political Landscape

The political landscape can have a significant impact on the workplace, with issues like election results, policy changes, and social movements affecting employee morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. For instance, the 2020 US presidential election saw a significant increase in workplace discussions and debates, with some employees feeling uncomfortable or even harassed by their coworkers’ political views. Employers must be aware of these potential issues and develop strategies to address them.

Recognizing the Risks of Polarization

Polarization is a significant risk in the workplace, as employees with differing political views can create a toxic work environment. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that 44% of employees reported feeling uncomfortable discussing politics at work, while 25% reported feeling harassed or bullied due to their political views. Employers must take steps to prevent polarization and create a welcoming environment for all employees.

Addressing Microaggressions and Bias

Microaggressions and bias can also be significant issues in the workplace, particularly in environments where political views are openly discussed. For example, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who experienced microaggressions were more likely to feel disengaged and less productive. Employers must take steps to address microaggressions and bias, such as providing training and creating a safe and inclusive work environment.

Developing Effective Communication Strategies

Effective communication is crucial for success in a political workplace. Employers and employees must develop strategies to navigate difficult conversations and create a welcoming environment for all. Some effective communication strategies include active listening, empathy, and respect for differing opinions. For instance, a study by the Journal of Applied Psychology found that employees who felt heard and understood by their employers were more likely to be engaged and productive.

Creating a Safe and Inclusive Work Environment

Creating a safe and inclusive work environment is essential for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers can achieve this by establishing clear policies and procedures for addressing political discussions and debates, as well as providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion. For example, Google’s diversity and inclusion program has been recognized as one of the best in the industry, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment for employees from all backgrounds.

Encouraging Open and Respectful Dialogue

Encouraging open and respectful dialogue is also essential for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers can achieve this by creating a culture of respect and empathy, where employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions and views. For instance, a study by the Journal of Business Ethics found that employees who felt comfortable sharing their opinions were more likely to be engaged and committed to their employer.

Navigating Difficult Conversations

Navigating difficult conversations is a crucial aspect of effective communication in a political workplace. Employers and employees must be able to navigate conversations about sensitive topics, such as politics and social issues, with ease and respect. Some strategies for navigating difficult conversations include staying calm and composed, listening actively, and focusing on the issue rather than the person.

Managing Conflict and Disagreements

Managing conflict and disagreements is also essential for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers can achieve this by establishing clear policies and procedures for addressing conflicts, as well as providing training on conflict resolution and management. For example, a study by the Journal of Conflict Resolution found that employees who received training on conflict resolution were more likely to manage conflicts effectively and maintain positive relationships with their coworkers.

Building Trust and Credibility

Building trust and credibility is crucial for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers and employees must be able to trust each other to navigate difficult conversations and create a welcoming environment for all. Some strategies for building trust and credibility include being transparent and honest, following through on commitments, and demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effective communication is crucial for success in a political workplace. Employers and employees must develop strategies to navigate difficult conversations, create a safe and inclusive work environment, and build trust and credibility. By understanding the political landscape, recognizing the risks of polarization, and addressing microaggressions and bias, employers can create a welcoming environment for all employees. By following the strategies outlined in this article, employers can navigate the challenges of a political workplace and create a positive and productive work environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I create a safe and inclusive work environment in a political workplace?

A: Creating a safe and inclusive work environment in a political workplace involves establishing clear policies and procedures for addressing political discussions and debates, as well as providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Q: How can I navigate difficult conversations about politics in the workplace?

A: Navigating difficult conversations about politics in the workplace involves staying calm and composed, listening actively, and focusing on the issue rather than the person.

Q: What are some strategies for building trust and credibility in a political workplace?

A: Some strategies for building trust and credibility in a political workplace include being transparent and honest, following through on commitments, and demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Q: How can I address microaggressions and bias in the workplace?

A: Addressing microaggressions and bias in the workplace involves providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as creating a safe and inclusive work environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions and views.

Q: What are some effective communication strategies for a political workplace?

A: Some effective communication strategies for a political workplace include active listening, empathy, and respect for differing opinions, as well as creating a culture of respect and empathy where employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions and views.