Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 16520 R Serial Floating White Dial Box and Papers

Introduction

Perhaps one of the most iconic timepieces to have ever hit the market, the Rolex Daytona is widely recognized as one of the most desirable watches there is. Distinguished by its three generations, what we have here is the 2nd generation 5-digit reference, known as the “Zenith” Daytonas due to their movement (the Rolex cal. 4030) being a heavily modified version of the Zenith-supplied El Primero movement. Forgoing its date function, slowing the movement’s frequency down to increase the power reserve, and featuring fewer parts to improve reliability, the cal. 4030 found within the Zenith Daytonas is one of the finest pieces of horological engineering to come out of the late 80s and 90s (1988-2000). Still a mechanically astute timepiece to this day, the Zenith Daytona exists through a wide variety of references, of which, the ref. 16520 is the purest. A wonderful expression of Rolex’s engineering capabilities and the consistency in their iconic design language, the Zenith Daytona is the unsung hero in the Daytona’s lineage. Still, it won’t be for long when collectors begin to unravel the story and see the value these incredible timepieces hold.

The Dial

Featuring the Daytona’s stunning ‘porcelain’ white lacquered dial, the ref. 16520’s panda dial is a collector favorite thanks to its subtle black subdial rings that give it its ‘Panda’ nickname. However, offered as a true rarity, this example features a ‘floating’ dial (also considered the Mk. 1 dial) whereby its “Cosmograph” inscription is not tight to the four lines of text above it as usual but spaced below – a rare oddity specific only to R-serial ref. 16520s.

The Movement

The very thing that these Daytonas are so highly-revered in watchmaking circles is its movement. The Zenith-based cal. 4030 was used in the Daytona from 1988-2000 and it oscillates at 28,800 beats per minute. This was the last time Rolex was to use a movement not designed in-house.

Condition

Watch is in excellent overall condition. The case shows light signs of wear, with some surface marks visible on the bezel and case edges. Enamel on the original 200 unit bezel is crisp and fully intact. Original MK1 “Floating” dial is excellent. There are minor signs of wear visible upon closer inspection, including some light marks visible along the subdial edges. The minute hand has a slight discoloration on the edge closest to the center. Watch comes on an oyster bracelet with 12 links total, 2 of which are removable. It fits an approx 7 1/4″ wrist and shows minimal stretch. Watch comes with its original box and papers, including the punched guarantee paper.