For the Daytona's 25th anniversary, Rolex surprised the public at the 1988 Basel fair by introducing the first self winding chronograph model in its history. The newly launched reference model was powered by a derivative of Zenith's El Primero caliber modified by Rolex. It was the first Daytona to be equipped with a sapphire crystal and a new larger diameter.

Its launch was an immediate success, resulting in unprecedented demand that would require clients to have to wait as long as seven years to purchase one. Without a doubt, the new model elevated the Daytona to its current mythical status.

This stainless steel and yellow gold Daytona, reference 16523, is part of the famous 'R' series from the 1st year of production in 1988. The watch is also fitted with the highly sought after black dial featuring the floating "Cosmograph" signature. Preserved in excellent condition and still retaining its caseback sticker, this timepeice is offered with its original guarantee from 1989, product literature and even box with the label "16523". The watch also retains its original calibrated bezel graduated to 200 units per hour.