16520
Zenith Daytona
- Production
- 1988–2000
- Model
- Cosmograph Daytona
- Case material
- Oystersteel
- Case size
- 40mm
- Movement
- Automatic
- Calibre
- Cal. 4030 (Zenith El Primero based)
- Bezel
- Stainless Steel · Tachymeter
- Dial colours
- Black, Silver / White
- Market value band
- $28k – $90k
When Rolex finally automated the Daytona in 1988 it bought Zenith's El Primero, then re-engineered it heavily — slowing the beat rate and replacing a large share of the components. The 16520 turned the Daytona from a slow seller into a watch with multi-year waitlists, setting up the modern hype that still defines the line.
Key dates.
- First automatic Daytona, using a modified Zenith El Primero
- Rolex changed so much of the El Primero that the calibre 4030 shares only part of its architecture with the donor movement.
- Early 'inverted 6' subdial printing and dials that have aged brown are the specific variants collectors hunt.
Before you ask.
When was the Rolex 16520 produced?
The 16520 was produced from 1988 to 2000.
What movement does the Rolex 16520 use?
The Rolex 16520 runs the Cal. 4030 (Zenith El Primero based), an automatic movement.
How do I check a Rolex 16520 with Watch Safe?
Look up the watch's serial number in the Watch Safe registry to see whether a record exists or a theft flag is attached. A registry search identifies records for a specific serial; it does not authenticate the watch. Authentication is performed in person by an independent expert authenticator, and Watch Safe records and publishes the result.
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