Reference 16520 is among Rolex's most innovative models ever produced. Housing the iconic Zenith-based caliber 4030 mechanism, the model was fitted with the first automatic chronograph movement in the firm's history. 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.

The present example is preserved in excellent condition with charismatic subsidiary registers that have turned "tropical" over time. This "tropical" effect mainly occurs on Cosmograph dials produced during the early to mid-1990s. This example furthermore retains its original guarantee stating that the watch was sold in Frankfurt - fitting, as the guarantee is stamped "100" for Germany.