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
Original Guarantee Certificate
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Daytona
Movement
Automatic cal. 4030
Reference
16520
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1997
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch and papers
Dial Color
Black
THE "PATRIZZI" DIAL
In keeping with other examples from this period, this Daytona ref. 16520's silver subdial chapter rings have oxidized as a result of the varnish originally used by Rolex on their dials. Extremely rare and sought after, the resulting effect is that the once-bright silver chapter rings now appear with a gentle brown patina.
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
Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case shows minor marks and scraches along the surface, but retains full lugs and sharp edges. The bezel is crisp and has some light wear to the black enameling and has some surface marks and scratches. The dial is near-mint with carmel-toned aging to the subdial counters. The bracelet comes with 13 links, 3 of which are removable. There is light stretch and some visible scuffs.
Our Perspective
A legendary timepiece for all the right reasons, the Rolex Daytona exists in a world of its own, unrivaled by most other sports chronographs. Positioned within its lineage as the original 'modern' Daytona, the "Zenith" Daytona will certainly prove to be an important piece of the Daytona's history for a very long time yet.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
