WHY WE LOVE IT
We all know the Daytona Story, and it has proven to be a big favorite among the collectors.
Why? Rolex's brilliant motorsports chronograph is in pole position in any category, vintage or modern. And while current automatic versions admittedly don't generally do as much for us as a nice hand-cranking example, this particular iteration might be the exception to the rule.
The timepiece you're looking at is a Reference 16520 Cosmograph, known among collectors as the "Zenith Daytona" due to its internal automatic chronograph mechanism that is based on the world-famous high beat El Primero movement.
Until 2000, Rolex didn't actually offer an in-house automatic chronograph movement in the Daytona line, and since leaving the manual-winding Valjoux based movements on which they were founded in 1988, relied on Zenith to provide the internals for their flagship chronograph.
"Zenith Daytonas" were made for almost a decade and have become incredibly desirable by collectors. With near-perfect proportions, the 16520 has become a true icon, and this particular example is a great way to get in on the action!
Dating to circa 1999, this piece features astrong stainless steel case, a gloss black Tritium dial with patinated white sub register rings giving it a vaguely "Reverse-panda-like" feel, a sapphire crystal, and a matching Oyster Bracelet with signed fliplock clasp.
Furthermore, this piece is accompanied by a bunch of goodies and remains in fantastic overall condition.
It has been speculated by many that the Zenith Daytona - particularly the white dial models - may be the single greatest modern Rolex with a huge potential for appreciation.
We're not going to suggest otherwise.
OVERALL CONDITION
The case is in excellent condition showing normal signs of wear consistent with age and use. Gloss black Tritium dial with white subsidiary register rings is in equally excellent condition, showing light even patina with matching handset. Signed crown.
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