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Lot #1507

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 16520 Zenith Movement Box and Papers

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Introduction

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 their 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. 16520 is the purest. 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 when collectors begin to unravel the story and see the value these incredible timepieces hold.

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Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Box and Papers

Est. value range

$20,000 – $30,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

40mm

Model

Daytona

Movement

Automatic cal. 4030

Reference

16520

Bracelet

Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

Year

1999

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch, box and papers

Dial Color

White

THE DIAL

Offered with the Daytona's most sought-after dial, this example's pristine white dial is in truly stunning condition with perfect luminescent material and graphics.

THE CONDITION

Offered in incredible condition for its age, this example's lines are immaculately sharp and flawless, its endlinks are flush to its case, and its Oyster bracelet is tight.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The case and surface of the watch show light wear, comesurate with use. The enameling of the bezel is intact and there are no significant dings or scratches. Dial is flawless. The bracelet has 13 links total, including one extra on the side. There is little stretch, as well as typical surface wear. Watch comes with orginal Japanese guarantee papers.

Our Perspective

It's still hard to imagine that the 16520 was launched over 30 years ago, it looks just as modern as when it was first released, and the 'Zenith' Daytonas are amongst my favorite. With new Daytonas fetching prices that are higher than ever, these now vintage examples are worth some serious consideration as they become increasingly rare as time goes on and they find themselves in the hands of seasoned collectors that know their worth.

Eric Ku

Co-founder