The Rolex Daytona needs little introduction. Since the arrival of the automatic generation in the late 1980s, the 16520 has become one of the defining Daytonas for collectors, combining the unmistakable look of a vintage chronograph with the convenience of an automatic movement.

Introduced in 1988, the reference 16520 was the first automatic Daytona and marked a major turning point for the model. Its calibre 4030 was based on the legendary Zenith El Primero, heavily modified by Rolex and giving the 16520 its own place in Daytona history.

At hand is a beautiful black-dial example from 1996, preserved in lovely original condition. The black dial remains crisp and deep, while the three sub-dials have taken on a very subtle creamy tone over the years. Just enough ageing to give it that warm, vintage character we love.

The tritium dial retains its mk5 layout , including the upright ‘6’ in the lower hours register. It is fitted with its solid-link Oyster bracelet, ref. 78390, featuring polished centre links, clasp code ‘Z6’ and 503B end links.

Inside, the Rolex calibre 4030 — based on the Zenith El Primero — has been fully serviced by our watchmaker.

For us, the 16520 is one of those sweet-spot Daytonas: enough age and character to feel properly vintage, but with the practicality of an automatic movement. A black-dial 16520 in this kind of condition is certainly not one to overlook.

Get in touch, call us or visit our lounge to take a closer look.

Specifications:

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Reference 16520
Black ”Mk5 straight six tritium dial”
Warm colored sub dials
40mm steel case
T89xxxx dating to 1996
Calibre 4030 movement (modified Zenith El-Primero) automatic
Oyster bracelet reference 78390 with end links 503 b
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
1 year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 16520 Black Dial T-series

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 16520 Black Dial T-series

Before/after