Our remarks

ROLEX VINTAGE DAYTONA COSMOGRAPH – Ref. 16520 – El Primero – A-Series – Stainless Steel – Black Tritium Dial – 1999 – Full Set — Excellent Condition

We are pleased to present this highly desirable ROLEX DAYTONA COSMOGRAPH Ref. 16520, the legendary “El Primero” Daytona, in its sought-after A-Series execution, preserved in excellent condition and offered as a complete full set with original box and papers.

Produced during the final years of the Zenith-based Daytona era, the A-Series represents one of the last and most refined iterations of the reference 16520 before Rolex transitioned to its in-house chronograph movement. These late examples combine the charm of early El Primero Daytonas with improved reliability and finishing.

This watch features a beautifully preserved black tritium dial, with warm, evenly aged luminous material that perfectly complements the crisp white sub-dials. Tritium-dial A-Series Daytonas are especially prized, as they mark the end of an era just before the switch to Luminova.

Housed in a 40mm stainless steel case with screw-down pushers and tachymeter bezel, the Ref. 16520 remains one of the most balanced and wearable Daytonas ever produced. Inside beats the iconic Rolex Cal. 4030, based on the Zenith El Primero and extensively modified by Rolex for enhanced durability and precision.

The presence of the original box and papers, combined with the watch’s excellent condition, places this example among the most collectible configurations of the modern vintage Daytona.

Key Features:

- Full set: original box, papers

- Calendar, two hang tags 

- Descrbtion booklet

- Leather card holder

- Black tritium dial, excellent patina

- A-Series production, full links 

- Automatic chronograph Rolex Cal. 4030 (Zenith El Primero–based)

- Original Oyster bracelet, full end links

- Production year: 1999

- Excellent overall condition

The Ref. 16520 stands as a cornerstone of contemporary Rolex collecting, bridging vintage charm and modern performance. An A-Series tritium example in full-set condition represents a rare and highly desirable opportunity.

“The El Primero Daytona is already a legend — an A-Series tritium full set is the collector’s benchmark.”