1/17
Lot #1044

Rolex Two-Tone Cosmograph Daytona Zenith Movement 16523

How do I bid? Start here

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, such as the ref. 16523 that we have here. With numerous references within the collection, the Zenith Daytona has also featured some exceedingly rare jeweled variants like the ref. 16589 and so on. A wonderful expression of Rolex's engineering capabilities and the consistency in their iconic design language, the Zenith Daytona is perhaps the unsung hero in Daytona's lineage. However, it won't be long before collectors begin to unravel the story and see the value these timepieces hold.


Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 9

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Service Paper, Hang Tag

Est. value range

$10,000 – $15,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

40mm

Model

Cosmograph Daytona Zenith Movement

Movement

Self-Winding Caliber 4030

Reference

16523

Bracelet

Two-Tone

Year

1995

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless Steel/Yellow Gold

Included

Hang tag and Service Papers

Dial Color

Gold

THE DIAL

The champagne dial exhibits minor oxidation along the edges of the subdials. Remainder of the dial is pristine, and tritium on the dial and hands match perfectly.

THE ZENITH MOVEMENT

The "Zenith" movement was the last outsourced movement that Rolex utilized in its lineup. A heavily modified El Primero 400 series caliber, the movement was a faithful workhorse and proved reliable enough to meet the exacting standards of Rolex.

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 overall condition of the watch is excellent. Original champagne dial is in near perfect condition, with only minor oxidation along the subdial edges. 18k gold bezel is sharp with no loss to the enamel. The case and bracelet have minor surface abrasions. Bracelet is full length.

Our Perspective

Dressier than its full stainless steel counterpart, this 16523 is incrediblly well preserved, with the black enameling on the bezel completely intact. We love the patina that has developed on the pushers, giving the watch a warm well preserved vintage feeling. Perfect for those summers in Capri (or Tahoe), or winters in Courchevel (or Tahoe again).

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder