Perhaps one of the most iconic timepieces to have ever hit the market, the Rolex Daytona is widely recognized as one of the most desirable watches there is. Distinguished by its three generations, what we have here is the 2nd generation 5-digit reference, known as the "Zenith" Daytonas due to the movement (the Rolex cal. 4030) being a heavily modified version of the Zenith-supplied El Primero movement. Forgoing its date function, slowing the movement's frequency down to increase the power reserve, and featuring fewer parts to improve reliability, the cal. 4030 found within the Zenith Daytonas is one of the finest pieces of horological engineering to come out of the late 80s and 90s (1988-2000). Still a mechanically astute timepiece to this day, the Zenith Daytona exists through a wide variety of references, of which, the ref. 16519 that we have here is one of the most luxurious with its 18kt white gold case, flip-lock clasp, and comfortable leather strap. Released in the late 1990s, the Rolex Daytona ref. 16519 was a late addition to the soon-to-be-outgoing "Zenith" Daytona collection that put the Daytona's tool watch design language on the backfoot and prioritized Rolex's growing desire to appeal to the high-end luxury segment of the watchmaking market. A wonderful expression of Rolex's engineering capabilities and the consistency in their iconic design language, the Zenith Daytona is the unsung hero in the Daytona's lineage. Still, it won't be for long before collectors begin to unravel its story and see the value these incredible timepieces hold.

A beautiful blend of luxury and the Daytona's iconic design, the ref. 16519 has everything that makes the Daytona one of the most sought-after watches on the market - its stunning good looks and a luxurious construction that collectors love.