There hasn’t been many better-performing sports watches from Rolex over the past year than the Cosmograph Daytona, and included well within this bracket of watches is most certainly the Zenith-powered 16520’s. Running from 1988 to the introduction of ref. 116520 in 2000, we saw a number of different iterations of 16520 over the 12-year production period. This later-than-most example has a U-serial number, dictating its production year of 1997 and sports the beautiful black dial - a somewhat more subtle offering than the white option at the time. The “Zenith” association with these Daytona references comprises of the movement within, which is a Rolex-modified Zenith El Primero movement - a truly fantasist movement which was only replaced when Rolex decided to internally develop their own in-house chronograph movement in 2000. Indicated by the “T”’s either side of “SWISS” and “MADE” at the bottom of the dial, the Daytona showcased features tritium-filled hour markers and hands, which albeit not having the most amazing luminous qualities, allows the watch to patina beautifully, alongside those cream sub-dial surrounds which also have the ability to colour-change depending on the environment of the watch. The watch fit almost identically to the modern Daytona’s we know of today at 40mm, however wears slightly smaller and offers a vintage charm that you do not get with modern-day sports Rolex’s. Fitted to the watch’s case is the period-correct “78390” bracelet, which features polished centre links throughout, as well as the polished central-section of the clasp. Matching the modern-day capabilities of Daytona’s, the watch is waterproof to 100m making it a very wearable, Neo-vintage piece.

Condition Report:

Having just come from its first and only case and bracelet re-finish, as well as a full service on the movement within, the example showcased here is an exceptional one. Complete with every single one of its original accessories from its year of purchase, its becoming increasingly rare to find these Zenith Rolex Daytona’s so complete. Accompanying the watch is the original inner and out boxes, its Daytona booklets, both swing tags, bezel protector, spare link and its all-important guarantee certificate, stamped with the correct country code and of course serial number of the watch in question. A truly superb set, which is ready to be owned and enjoyed by only its second owner, having purchased this watch from the original owner ourselves.

• Year: 1997

• Reference Number: 16520

• Material: Stainless Steel

• Size: 40mm

• Movement: Automatic Calibre 4030

• Waterproof: 100m

• Box Information: Original Box

• Extras: Original Certificate

• Strap: Stainless Steel Bracelet