Rolex Daytona Zenith 16520 Review

The Rolex Daytona 16520, introduced in 1988, marked a pivotal transition for the Daytona collection by incorporating the Zenith El Primero automatic movement, significantly enhancing its precision and desirability among enthusiasts. Encased in stainless steel and featuring a 40mm diameter, the 16520 brought forth a sapphire crystal to the series, replacing the previous acrylic inserts and ensuring superior scratch resistance. The tri-compax layout of the sub-dials, consisting of a 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, and a constant seconds display at 6 o’clock, ensured optimal readability while maintaining a clean aesthetic. Furnished with a Tachymetric scale on its bezel, the 16520 enables users to measure speed over a known distance, reflecting its roots in automotive racing. Coupled with a power reserve of approximately 52 hours and water resistance up to 100 meters, the Daytona 16520 intertwines practical utility with enduring style.

History Of The "El Primero" Rolex Daytona Zenith 16520

The Rolex Daytona lineage began in the early 1960s, but the 16520 introduced in the late 1980s marked a significant evolution. It was the first Daytona to house the Zenith El Primero-based Caliber 4030, transitioning Rolex Daytona from manual to automatic movements and thus beginning a new era for this iconic chronograph.