Lot #3512
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 16520 Zenith Movement White Dial Rolex Service Guarantee
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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.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Rolex Service Warranty Card, Associated Invoice and Service Pouch
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Daytona
Movement
Automatic cal. 4030
Reference
16520
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1995
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, Rolex Service Warranty Card, 2024-dated Associated Service Invoice and Service Pouch
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
Offered with the Daytona's most sought-after dial, this example's pristine white 'Panda' dial is in truly stunning condition with perfect luminescent material and graphics.
THE MOVEMENT
The very thing that these Daytonas are so highly-revered in watchmaking circles is its movement. The Zenith-based cal. 4030 was used in the Daytona from 1988-2000 and it oscillates at 28,800 beats per minute. This was the last time Rolex was to use a movement not designed in-house.
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 excellent overall condition. Case shows some wear, with some visible scratches and marks on lugs. The original bezel retains all of its black enameling, with only light wear in the "UNITS PER HOUR". The bezel has scratches and marks along the surface. Original white dial shows little to no signs of wear or aging. Watch comes on an oyster bracelet with 11 links total, 1 of which is removable. It fits an approx 6 3/4" wrist and shows minor stretch. The watch was recently serviced at Rolex, and the invoice shows that the watch was not polished during the service, and the pushers, crown and crystal were replaced.
Our Perspective
It's still hard to imagine that the 16520 was launched over 35 years ago. It looks just as modern as when it was first released, and the 'Zenith' Daytonas are amongst my favorites. With Daytonas fetching prices that are higher than ever, these now vintage examples are worth some serious consideration, with examples in a condition like this proving to become exceedingly rare as time goes on.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
