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
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Daytona
Movement
Automatic cal. 4030
Reference
16520
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
1993
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
The most classical of all Daytona displays, this ref. 16520 boasts a black dial with silver subdial chapter rings to match its stainless steel construction and white gold indices and hands that pop against their dark backdrop. Making this piece all the more special, however, is the aged effect this example's dial has developed over the years, with its black color softening.
THE MOVEMENT
Released in 1988, the "Zenith" generation of Daytona models represent the increasingly forgotten period of watchmaking whereby collaboration was key to the success of brands regardless of their size - as demonstrated by the ref. 16520's automatic cal. 4030 movement., which is based on Zenith's El Primero movement.
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
The watch is in overall very good condition. The steel case remains well defined with some scratches and small nicks, and the case back shows some light pitting. The bezel is excellent, with intact enamel in the tachymeter scale markings. The dial has lost its glossiness and now displays a faded, slightly patchy appearance with aging visible in the sub-dials and oxidation on the sub-dial rings. The lume in the hour markers has aged to a deep hue, except at 11, and the lume in the hands shows some variation in colour, though the hands themselves are clean. The watch is fitted with a steel Oyster flip-lock bracelet that has some surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet currently fits an approximately 8” wrist, and is fitted with 13 links, 3 of which are removable.
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 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
