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
V 10
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Manuals
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
1999
Condition
New Old Stock
Material
Stainless Steel
Included
Watch, Box and Manuals
Dial Color
Black
THE LAST OF ITS KIND
As a result of its 1999 production, this ref. 16520 features the 'SWISS MADE' designation at the bottom of its dial, and a solid endlink bracelet with polished center links. 'SWISS MADE' on the dial denotes the dial having luminova based luminous instead of tritium.
THE CONDITION
Offered in new old stock condition, this example's lines are immaculately sharp and flawless, its endlinks are flush to its case, and its Oyster bracelet is tight. Furthermore, as we can see here, it even still carries its original caseback sticker as it would have been in 1999 in the AD's display cabinet.
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
In new condition. The case is unpolished and still retains original green factory sticker. All case lines and proportions are really well defined and in super condition. The dial is in excellent condition. The bracelet is like new, nice and tight and has 13 links, 3 removable. Please note that while the watch comes with its boxes and manuals, the original guarantee certificate is not included.
Our Perspective
While it may have been launched over 30 years ago, the ref. 16520 looks just as modern as when it was first released, thanks to Rolex's design consistency. With new Daytona models fetching higher prices than ever, vintage examples are worth some serious consideration, and the neo-vintage 'Zenith' Daytonas are amongst my favorite Daytona variant. Unfortunately, examples in a condition like ours here are also proving to become exceedingly rare as time goes on and collectors snap them up as quickly as possible.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
