Our remarks

ROLEX DAYTONA COSMOGRAPH – Ref. 16520 – Stainless Steel – Automatic – Zenith El Primero Caliber 4030 – A-Series – Black “Swiss Made” Dial – Full Set – Unworn / NOS — Green Sticker

We are proud to present an extraordinary and virtually impossible-to-find example of the iconic Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 16520, part of the legendary Zenith-powered generation, in unworn New Old Stock (NOS) condition.

The reference 16520, introduced in 1988, marked the dawn of a new era for the Daytona line as Rolex transitioned from manually wound to automatic chronographs. Powered by the highly regarded Caliber 4030, based on the Zenith El Primero, the 16520 became an instant classic—renowned for its precision, robustness, and the unmistakable balance of sportiness and refinement that defines the modern Daytona.

This particular A-Series example, dating from 1999–2000, represents the final production batch of the Zenith-era Daytonas—produced just before the introduction of the in-house Caliber 4130 (Ref. 116520). The black “Swiss Made” dial, found only on late-production A-Series models, denotes the transitional period when Rolex began using LumiNova for luminescence, marking the very end of tritium use.

The 40mm stainless steel Oyster case remains in untouched, factory-original condition with sharp edges, untouched lugs, and perfect satin and polished surfaces. The steel tachymeter bezel, engraved up to 400 units per hour, complements the sporty yet timeless aesthetic. 

At its heart beats the Rolex Caliber 4030, derived from the Zenith El Primero but extensively modified by Rolex for superior durability, accuracy, and long-term reliability. This movement cemented the 16520’s reputation as one of the most historically significant Daytonas ever produced.

This exceptional collector’s set includes:

- Stainless Steel Oyster Case and Bracelet (40mm)

- Black “Swiss Made” Dial (LumiNova, A-Series)

- Zenith El Primero–based Caliber 4030 Movement

- Tachymeter Bezel (400 Units)

- Original Rolex Box, Papers, Booklets, and Tags

- Factory Original Condition – Unworn / NOS

- green lether card holder

- Daytona describtion booklet

- calendar 2001/2002

- Green A-no. hnag tag

„Grail watch for the discerning collector, this Rolex Daytona Ref. 16520 A-Series represents the pinnacle of the Zenith-era Daytona lineage — combining ultimate condition, rarity, and complete frist provenance in one of the most sought-after configurations ever produced.