ROLEX DAYTONA PROTOTYPE Dial BACK TO THE FUTURE Ref-16520 EL PRIMERO Steel Box Papers Bj- 1996 Bespoke in PUCCI PAPALEO BOOK
| Reference | 16520 |
| Code | A22131 |
| Condition | Very good |
| With box | |
| With papers | |
| Year of production | 1996 |
| Property of | Bachmann & Scher GmbH |
| Case material | Steel |
| Case diameter | 40 |
| Glas | Sapphire glass |
| Clasp | Fold clasp |
| Clasp material | Steel |
| Dial | White |
| Dial numbers | Index |
| Bracelet material | Steel |
| Caliber | ZENITH/ROLEX Cal. 4030 |
| Basic caliber | EL PRIMERO |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Waterproof | 100 m |
Chronograph, Tachymeter
High-End, Small Seconds, Luminescent Hands, Chronometer, Screw-Down Crown, Screw-Down Push-Buttons, Luminous indexes
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 16520 – “Back to the Future” Dial – El Primero – 1996 – Box & Papers – Bespoke in PUCCI/PAPALEO Book - ULTIMATE DAYTONA
We are proud to present this highly unusual and collectible Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 16520, featuring the so-called “Back to the Future” dial—an exceptionally rare and unconventional configuration associated with early Zenith-powered Daytonas.
Produced in 1996, this example is based on the legendary Ref. 16520, powered by the modified Zenith El Primero movement. The watch is offered with its original box and papers.
The 40 mm stainless steel case retains the classic proportions that defined the modern Daytona era, combining sportiness with timeless design. Its tachymeter bezel and balanced chronograph layout remain instantly recognizable.
The defining feature of this piece is its highly distinctive dial, often referred to by collectors as the “Back to the Future” dial.
With its unconventional typography and layout, it stands apart from standard production models and is believed to be linked to prototype configurations. Having the El Primero movement build in this watch shows already the design of the later 2000s Rolex Daytona models 116520 with silver instead of the black sub dials. However the hour markers and hands are much thinner.
At the heart of the watch beats the Zenith El Primero- Rolex Caliber 4030, based on the renowned Zenith El Primero movement. Extensively modified by Rolex, it offers exceptional reliability, a reduced beat rate for longevity, and a power reserve of approximately 52 hours.
The watch is fitted with its original Oyster bracelet in stainless steel, ensuring durability and comfort for everyday wear.
This Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 16520 is offered with:
- Original Rolex presentation box
- Original warranty papers (1996)
- Bespoke in the Pucci book - "Ultimate Rolex Daytona" by Pucci/Papaleo page 112-113.
- Stainless steel case and Oyster bracelet
- Rare “Back to the Future” dial configuration
- Rolex Caliber 4030 (Zenith El Primero–based automatic chronograph)
- Excellent overall condition
„An amazing white prototype dial Rolex Daytona 16520 with the look of the later standard 116520 - a super rare piece for connaiseurs and high-end collectors"