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. 16528 is one of the most luxurious. 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 due to the attention the Newman-era four-digit references and modern six-digit references receive. Still, it won't be long before collectors begin to unravel the story and see the value these incredible timepieces hold.

Featuring a throwback to the four-digit Daytona dials of old, this Daytona ref. 16528 has three completely black subdials instead of the golden subdials with thin black chapter rings that we normally expect to see on the ref. 16528's normal issue champagne dial. A prototype/test dial made by Singer for Rolex, this blacked-out subdial design provides the watch with an intensely unusual aesthetic that will surely catch the eye of any avid Rolex aficionado.

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows light scratches and scuffs. The case back still has its original, somewhat worn, sticker. The bezel remains in excellent condition with all black enamel intact and only minor marks. The champagne dial with full black subdials is near mint and complemented by very clean hands. There are a few chips along the crystal surface visible near the "SWISS" close to 6 o'clock. It is fitted with a solid link yellow gold Oyster bracelet with light scratches, a few small nicks, and light play between the links. It is fitted with 13 links, 3 of which are removable, and fits approximately a 7 1/4” wrist. Comes with the original warranty paper. The dial was a test/prototype manufactured by Rolex/Singer. It was fitted into the watch after its intial sale, thus we make no garantee, nor do we warrant that Rolex will accept this watch for service in its current state.

Among the most iconic timepieces ever, the Daytona needs little to no introduction. This gold Zenith movement example is fitted with an unusual "panda" configuration dial that was never commercialized, and exists in very few examples.