Our remarks

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

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.

The reference 16520, introduced in 1988, marked the beginning of a new era for the Daytona line as Rolex switched from manual-winding to automatic chronographs. Powered by the highly regarded Caliber 4030, based on the Zenith El Primero, the 16520 immediately became a classic—known for its precision, robustness, and the distinctive balance between sportiness and sophistication that characterizes the modern Daytona.

This particular example from the A series, dating from 1999, comes from the last production series of Daytonas from the Zenith era, manufactured shortly before the introduction of the in-house caliber 4130 (Ref. 116520). The black “Swiss Made” dial, found only on late A-series models, marks the transition period when Rolex began using LumiNova for luminosity, signaling the end of tritium use.

The 40 mm stainless steel Oyster case is in excellent condition. The steel tachymeter bezel, engraved with up to 400 units per hour, complements the sporty yet timeless aesthetic. 

This exceptional collector's set includes:

- Stainless steel Oyster case and bracelet (40 mm)

- Zenith El Primero-based caliber 4030 movement

- Black “Swiss Made” dial (LumiNova, A-series)

- Tachymeter bezel (400 units)

- Original Rolex box, papers, brochures, and labels

- Green leather card holder

- Daytona description brochure

- 2001/2002 calendar