Rolex Daytona 16520 Zenith Movement Stainless Steel White Dial

By Rolex

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The Rolex Daytona 16520, often referred to as the "Zenith Daytona," is a legendary timepiece that marks a pivotal era in the Daytona collection. Crafted in stainless steel, its 40mm case embodies durability and timeless elegance, paired with the robust Oyster bracelet for comfort and style.

Powered by the modified Zenith El Primero movement, the caliber 4030, this Daytona offers exceptional chronograph precision, making it a collector's favorite. The white dial, accented with black subdials and an outer seconds track, provides a clean and legible design, while the subtle red "Daytona" text above the 6 o’clock subdial adds a distinctive touch.

The fixed steel bezel, engraved with a tachymeter scale, emphasizes the Daytona’s racing heritage and functionality. Produced between 1988 and 2000, the 16520 represents the first automatic Daytona and is celebrated for its historical significance and enduring appeal. Perfect for enthusiasts and collectors, it is a symbol of Rolex’s innovation and iconic design.

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The Rolex Daytona 16520, famously known as the "Zenith Daytona," stands as a cornerstone in the history of the Daytona collection. Introduced in 1988, this model marked the transition to automatic chronograph movements in Rolex’s lineup, cementing its status as a beloved icon among collectors.

Crafted in stainless steel, the 40mm Oyster case exudes both durability and timeless sophistication, making it versatile for any occasion. Paired with the sturdy and elegant Oyster bracelet, the watch offers unmatched comfort and wearability. The fixed steel bezel, engraved with a tachymeter scale, underscores the Daytona's motorsport heritage, allowing for precise speed measurements.

At the heart of the 16520 lies the modified Zenith El Primero-based caliber 4030 movement, meticulously refined by Rolex to enhance its precision and reliability. This groundbreaking movement marked a significant step forward for the Daytona, offering an automatic winding mechanism that set the standard for modern chronographs.

The white dial, accented by contrasting black subdials, features a balanced and clean design. The red "Daytona" text above the 6 o’clock subdial adds a pop of character, distinguishing it as a true classic within the collection. Its simple yet functional aesthetic has become an enduring hallmark of this reference.

Produced until 2000, the Zenith Daytona is a prized possession for collectors, celebrated for its historical significance as the first automatic Daytona and its role in bridging the gap to the modern era of Rolex chronographs. Whether as a piece of racing history or a symbol of horological innovation, the Rolex Daytona 16520 remains a timeless treasure for those who appreciate Rolex’s legacy of precision and design excellence.

Reference number
16520
Model
Daytona
Movement
Automatic
Case Material
Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material
Stainless Steel
Dial
White
Case Diameter
40mm
Year
1996
Condition
Pre-Owned (Very Good)
Box & Papers
Original Box, Original Papers

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All watches sold by Wrist Aficionado are guaranteed to be 100% authentic. We are NOT an authorized retailer due to the highly limited nature of the items and brands we carry. We hand select only the most desirable pieces from a network of trusted vendors and clients who deal directly with the original manufacturers and retail boutiques. On top of this, every watch that we offer goes through a meticulous authentication process by a highly-trained watchmaker to ensure that it is in proper working order and uses all original parts that match the serial number on the original documentation. 

In the interest of ensuring the trust and safety of our clients, we will gladly authenticate any pieces you have purchased from other retailers as well. This complimentary evaluation is available at any one of our three physical boutiques — NYC, Beverly Hills, and Miami.

Warranty

New and pre-owned watches purchased from Wrist Aficionado are covered by either our complimentary 1 year warranty or the remainder of the original manufacturer warranty on the watch. Our warranty covers manufacturing defects that impact the mechanical function of the watch. We do NOT cover cosmetic defects, normal wear and tear, loss, theft, or damage as a result of misuse, water damage, etc. Any third party service or modification completed after purchase will render this warranty null and void. Eligibility to process a warranty claim is determined at our sole discretion. Due to the nature of vintage watches and availability of parts, we cannot offer our warranty for vintage pieces.

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