Rolex Daytona 16520 U Series - Zenith Movement, Full Set - SOLD
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is one of the most instantly recognizable and iconic watches in the world. Named after Rolex's sponsorship of the annual 24 hour endurance race at Daytona Beach, Rolex's sole chronograph model has been coveted by collectors for decades. Originally featuring a manually wound movement and a 37mm case, Rolex updated the Daytona in 1988 to its modern iconic design, the reference 16520. Using an automatic chronograph movement from Zenith that was heavily modified to Rolex standards, the new watch grew to a 40mm case size in line with other sports models and equipped a sapphire crystal for added durability, along with a lacquered glossy dial. The 16520 was an instant hit and has been in demand since its release over 30 years ago, especially as Rolex discontinued the use of these Zenith based movements in 2000.
The watch pictured here is one of the last Zenith powered Daytonas with a tritium dial and hand set, bearing a late U serial. This example comes complete with its original boxes, warranty papers dated September 1999, and booklets, a full collector's set.
Take a look at the photos and our condition description below:
Case: 40mm stainless steel case in excellent condition as pictured. Case has been previously polished but retains thick lugs. There are minor signs of wear throughout the case commensurate with use but no major blemishes.Original screw-down pushers and crown operate as they should.
Bezel: Original polished stainless steel tachymeter bezel in very good condition as pictured. The bezel shows minor surface wear on the polished surfaces and has all paint intact.
Dial/Hands: Original gloss black tritium dial in excellent condition as pictured. Hands are also original tritium in excellent condition as pictured.
Caseback: Original caseback in excellent condition as pictured with minor surface wear.
Crystal: Sapphire crystal free from any scratching or marks.
Movement: Caliber 4030 automatic chronograph movement based on the Zenith El Primero. The watch runs great and keeps good time, with all movement functions working as intended, including chronograph start, stop, and return to zero. Service history is unknown.
Bracelet/Strap: Original 78390 bracelet with 503B end links. Bracelet is in very good condition with minor surface wear on the polished center links and clasp as pictured. Stretch is minimal. Bracelet will fit up to an 8" wrist comfortably and comes with all 13 original links.
Accessories: This watch comes as a complete set, with original inner and outer boxes, warranty papers, booklets, and certificate holder as pictured.