Our remarks

ROLEX DAYTONA COSMOGRAPH – Ref. 16528 MARK II – 18k Yellow Gold – 40mm – Automatic – Zenith El Primero Movement – White Tritium Dial – Four Line — 1989 (L-Series) – Very good Condition

We are delighted to present this outstanding example of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, reference 16528  in 18k yellow gold with first generation gold Oyster Bracelet.

This model is featuring the early and highly desirable Mark II “Four-Liner” white tritium dial, Inverse 6, dating from 1989 (L-series).

Introduced in 1988, the reference 16528 marked a new era for the Daytona collection as part of the first generation of automatic chronographs powered by the legendary Zenith El Primero–based Caliber 4030. This model represented the beginning of the modern Daytona lineage, combining Rolex’s hallmark precision and luxury with the technical innovation of an automatic chronograph movement.

The Mark II dial variation, found in early production examples, is instantly recognizable by its distinctive typography, “Four-Liner” text layout, and the use of tritium lume, which has a creamy tone. 

The 40mm solid gold Oyster case features polished and brushed surfaces, a first geneartion tachymeter bezel engraved up to 200 units per hour, and screw-down pushers. 

At the heart of this timepiece beats the Rolex Caliber 4030, based on the Zenith El Primero, but extensively re-engineered by Rolex for improved durability, precision, and long-term serviceability. The 16528 represents an important transitional reference—bridging the gap between the manually wound vintage Daytonas and the fully in-house chronographs that followed in 2000.

This exceptional example includes:

- 18k Yellow Gold Oyster Case and Bracelet

- Mark II “Four-Liner” White Tritium Dial

- L-Series Serial (1989 Production)

- 200 Units bezel

- Zenith El Primero–based Caliber 4030 Movement

- green Rolex servcie pouch

Condition: Very good to excellent throughout, retaining a strong and well-preserved case with sharp edges, crisp bezel engraving, and an immaculate dial.

"A true collector’s piece—the Rolex Daytona Ref. 16528 Mark II embodies the golden age of the automatic Zenith-era Daytonas, combining rarity and timeless design in one remarkable watch.