Rolex

1995 Rolex Zenith Daytona (Ref. 16520) "Mk. IV" W/ Box

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First introduced in 1963 the Rolex Daytona has remained a sought-after stable within the Rolex product range. Designed with professional racecar drivers in mind, the Daytona’s precision chronograph and tachymeter bezel allowed drivers to accurately measure speeds up to 400 kilometers or miles per hour. The release of the Daytona came just after Rolex had become the official timekeeper of the Daytona racetrack and the name evolved as a way for the brand to highlight their connection to the celebrated race.

Early Daytona models featured a manual-wind Valjoux 72 column-wheel chronograph movement. This was in use until 1988 when Rolex released the Ref. 16520 with an automatic “self-winding” movement. Rolex outsourced this moment, utilizing the Zenith 400 movement, originally manufactured for the “Zenith El-Primero.” For use in the ref. 16520, Rolex required approximately 200 modifications to the Zenith movement, which remained in use for twelve years. As a result, Daytona’s from this period are commonly referred to as “Zenith Daytonas.” In this reference, Rolex also incorporated more durable sapphire crystals, helping to increase the depth rating to a guaranteed 100m or 330ft.

 

Stock # RLXDT16520-95
Brand Rolex
Style Daytona
Model 16520
Serial W5XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Glossy Black "Mk. IV"
Millimeters 40
Strap Rolex Oyster 78390 Bracelet W/ 503B End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent case has been lightly polished in the past and retains very thick and symmetrical lugs. The stainless steel "UPH" bezel is exceptional, showing almost no signs of use, and retains all of its factory black enamel. The case retains its original screw-down pushers and crown. The original Rolex 78390 Oyster bracelet with 503B end pieces retains 12 links that show practically no stretch from use.

DIAL & HANDS

The glossy black Mk. IV dial is in superb original condition, showing no age or blemishes. The white sub-dials have lightly aged to achieve a slight "Patrizzi" patina, which accents the watch nicely and is desirable. The tritium lume plots have aged to a light ivory coloration and exhibit no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and display no degradation under U.V. light inspection.
 

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes with an inner and outer box. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time within COSC spec, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.