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Lot #1213

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Gold Zenith Movement 16528

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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. 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.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 9.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$30,000 – $50,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

40mm

Model

'Zenith' Daytona

Movement

Automatic cal. 4030

Reference

16528

Bracelet

18k Yellow Gold Oyster bracelet

Year

1991

Condition

Near-Mint

Material

18k Yellow Gold

Included

Watch Only

Dial Color

Champagne

THE CASE

Sitting in an incredibly well-preserved case, this example's lines are sharp and its surface has developed a slight amount of oxidization. This further suggests how little the example was worn and contributes to its gorgeous deep golden hue.

THE CASEBACK

Presented in like-new condition, this example still retains its original caseback sticker, which is also incredibly well-preserved - an indicator of just how little wrist time this stunning Daytona received over the years.

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 near-mint / LNOS condition. Case is unpolished with sharp chamfers, and fully intact enameling on the bezel. Blinking sticker on caseback with gold coronet and reference number intact. Bracelet has superficial wear. Watch overall has a beautiful light tarnish on all surfaces.

Our Perspective

Among the most iconic timepieces ever, the Daytona needs little to no introduction. Presented in like-new condition, this example is also as it was when it first left the Rolex boutique. The warm glow of the case and the fully intact caseback sticker make this particular example an exceptional catch.

Eric Ku

Co-founder