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Rolex Daytona Cosmograph Ref. 16523 – Zenith El Primero – 18k Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel – Gold Tritium Dial – “Inverted 6” – Box & Papers – 1991

We are delighted to offer this very good Rolex Daytona Cosmograph Ref. 16523, in 18k yellow gold stainless steel with Oyster bracelet.

This model is featuring the early "inverted 6" gold tritium dial, in a stunning two-tone configuration of 18k yellow gold and stainless steel. Powered by the legendary Zenith El Primero-based movement, this transitional reference represents a very early chapter in the Daytona lineage.

Originally sold in 1991, this watch is accompanied by its original box and punched papers, making it a complete and collectible example. The early tritium dial features the coveted “inverted 6” in the hour totalizer — a detail highly prized by collectors as a hallmark of early production Zenith Daytonas.

Key highlights:

- Original box

- Rolex punched papers – dated 1991

- Early tritium dial with “inverted 6” in the 12-hour subdial

- Rolex Caliber 4030 – automatic chronograph, based on Zenith El Primero

- Steel and 18k yellow gold case & Oyster bracelet (Ref. 78363 with correct end links 403)

- Correct “T SWISS T <25” dial, untouched with beautifully aged lume

The case remains in very good condition, showing light, honest wear consistent with age, and retains strong lugs and original lines. The bezel engraving is clean and legible, and the gold dial displays a warm tone with all tritium plots fully intact and evenly patinated. The bracelet shows normal stretch and is complete with its correct period clasp code.

Produced between 1988 and 2000, the 16523 was the first automatic Daytona in steel and gold, and this early execution with tritium “inverted 6” dial is among the most desirable variants. 

An outstanding piece to acquire a complete, early, and collectible example of one of Rolex’s most iconic modern-era chronographs.

“We love the 16523 ‘inverted 6’ for its golden-era charm, Zenith heart, and vintage style — a Daytona with true collector credibility.”