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Rolex Stainless Steel "Zenith" Daytona - Ref. 16520

SKU 28500
Price

$32,000.00

Brand:  Rolex

Model:  Cosmograph Daytona

Reference:  16520

Circa:  1996

Case Material:  Stainless Steel

Dial:  Original White Dial

Size:  40mm

Movement:  Caliber 4030, Automatic Zenith Movement

Function:  Time & Chronograph

Condition:  Excellent! Has original green Rolex sticker on case back

Matthew's Notes

This Rolex is one of the most significant neo-vintage chronographs in horological history: the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Reference 16520. Dubbed the "Zenith Daytona," this model marks the turning point when Rolex introduced automatic winding to its legendary racing line.  At the heart of the 16520 beats the Caliber 4030. Rather than engineering an automatic chronograph movement from the ground up, Rolex took Zenith’s legendary high-frequency El Primero caliber and subjected it to an uncompromising, multi-year optimization process.  Rolex replaced roughly 50% of the parts, swapped the escapement for their proprietary Microstella regulating system, removed the date module, and tuned the frequency down to a reliable 28,800 vph to maximize longevity and accuracy. The result is a mechanical hybrid that purists consider one of the finest automatic chronograph movements ever encased. This  watch is in incredible unpolished condition with its original green Rolex hologram sticker still on the case back.  The striking white dial is pristine  and all original.  The watch comes on its original Rolex stainless steel oyster bracelet with flip lock clasp.

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