Rolex
*Unpolished* 1996 Rolex Two-Tone Zenith Daytona (Ref. 16523) "Mk. IV" W/ Box & Papers
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 its 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.
This stunning two-tone Rolex ref. 16523 is a true "time capsule", remaining unpolished throughout and in stellar condition. This impressive Daytona is also accompanied by its original box, papers, and original sales receipt.
| Stock # | RLXDT16520TT-96 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Daytona | |
| Model | 16520 | |
| Serial | T6XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | SS / 18K YG | |
| Dial | Champagne "Mk. IV" | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Strap | Rolex Oyster 78393 Bracelet W/ 403 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The unpolished case is in excellent "lightly worn" condition, displaying sharp angles and crisp factory finishing throughout. The 18k yellow gold "Units Per Hour" bezel is unpolished as well and exhibits light signs of use. The case retains its original yellow gold Rolex trip-lock crown and screw-down pushers, the pushers have developed a handsome rosy patina. The original Rolex stainless steel and 18k yellow gold 78393 Oyster bracelet with 403 end pieces is in exceptional condition, retaining 11 links on the watch that show minimal stretch and 2 additional links.
DIAL & HANDS
The champagne Mk. IV dial is in flawless original condition, displaying no signs of age or damage. The tritium lume plots show a slight ivory patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original tritium hands match the dial and show no degradation under U.V. light inspection.
ACCESSORIES
The watch comes complete with its original inner and outer boxes, Rolex punched guarantee paper, original sales receipt, red leather Rolex cardholder, and 2 extra links. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.