The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116520 is significant for Rolex, marking a pivotal moment in the collection. It was the first model to feature Rolex's in-house self-winding chronograph movement, the calibre 4130. Like its predecessors, the stainless steel versions offered a choice of black or white dials. This reference quickly developed a loyal following and continues to be considered one of Rolex's most iconic and timeless models by collectors.

In 2016, Rolex upgraded the steel Daytona models to include a scratch-resistant Cerachrom bezel, making the 116520 series the last group of Daytona references with a steel bezel available to date. The present example, dating from circa 2016, is among the final batches offered by Rolex retailers and is fitted with an exceptionally rare white Arabic racing dial. This dial, originally intended for the white gold reference 116519, may have been a special request from an important client, resulting in its swap onto a stainless steel 116520 example.

Retailed by Brazilian retailer Manoel Bernardes, this watch is preserved in "new-old-stock" condition and retains its original factory stickers. Additionally, the presence of an “IPI Brasil” sticker on the caseback confirms that it was originally imported by Rolex into the Brazilian market.