Reference 16520 was Rolex’s first Daytona to house an automatic movement. At the time of launch in 1988, it quickly became a cult classic and garnered an immediate waiting list at Rolex retailers. Today, the Zenith Daytona has become an even more collectible watch due to its rarity, good looks and importance within the history of Rolex.

While reference 16520’s popularity has increased dramatically in the past few years, few automatic Cosmograph Daytonas are as beloved as the ‘R Series’. Preserved in excellent condition, this reference 16520 features a so-called ‘porcelain’ dial displaying the “Cosmograph” script floating below the text at 12 o’clock. Made of lacquer, “porcelain” dials were only fitted to the earliest 16520s. The black graphics were printed on top of the dial, giving it a three-dimensional effect. Of particular note is the “inverted 6” on the lowest subsidiary register, a detail that is particularly beloved by collectors today. Furthermore, all details are correct such as the early chronometer number, and satin finished bracelet.

Impressively, this watch is accompanied by its original guarantee, hang tag, presentation box and outer packaging.