RolexDaytona

KEY FACTS

• An example of Rolex’s highly sought-after Zenith Daytona
• Lot offered by a private collector based in Melbourne, Australia
• Presented as a watch-only lot
• Graded ‘A’ for condition by the vendor who reports the watch to be in good working order

FUNCTIONS

• Hours, minutes, small seconds and 12-hour chronograph
• Powered by the chronometer-certified calibre 4030 (modified Zenith El Primero)
• Automatic winding with a 54-hour power reserve
• Screw-down crown and pushers deliver 100m of waterproofness (not currently tested)

SUMMARY

Until 2000, Rolex did not have their own chronograph movement and so when in 1986 they looked to upgrade the Daytona chronograph to an automatic, they went to the best in the business which was the Zenith El-Primero. Two years later, marking the Daytona’s 25th anniversary, after numerous modifications and with less than half the original Zenith components remaining, the 16500 series was ready, including the 16520 in steel. With its 40mm case and distinctive sub-register design, the 16520 ushered in many of the features that have shaped the modern Daytona. This example has a black dial, and the age of the watch falls within the range to have ‘Patrizzi’ discolouration to the subdials. It does seem like there is more of a cream colour that perfectly matches the hour markers and hands.

All watches offered for sale are searched and cleared against The Watch Register database and a certificate is available to the winning bidder upon request.

Any watch not covered by a current sales or service warranty should be considered as potentially requiring a service, even if in full working order on the date of purchase.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Watch Collecting requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.