Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
In this video, I go hands-on, unboxing one of the most important models in the history of the Rolex Daytona: the reference 16520, better known as the 'Zenith' Daytona. Bridging the gap between the vintage manual-wind models and the fully in-house modern era of the Daytona, the 16520, produced from 1988 to 2000, represents a pivotal moment for Rolex. Featuring a modified Zenith El Primero movement, it was the first automatic Daytona; coupled with a beefed-up, sportier look, this model was exactly what the Daytona needed to become a hit. This piece, today, is a grail amongst many collectors, and you'll find them around £21,000 pre-owned.
Fun fact: it's easy to tell a 'Zenith' Daytona apart from its 2000s successor. Just look at the sub-dials. The 'Zenith' Daytona has its running seconds at 9:00 rather than 6:00.
Featured Watches:
Rolex 'Zenith' Daytona 16520
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Connect with us at: https://linktr.ee/watchfinder
Watchfinder is the number one place to buy, sell and exchange premium pre-owned timepieces. Discover more exceptional watches at watchfinder.com
#Watchfinder #Rolex #Daytona #ZenithDaytona #WatchCollector
In this video, I go hands-on, unboxing one of the most important models in the history of the Rolex Daytona: the reference 16520, better known as the 'Zenith' Daytona. Bridging the gap between the vintage manual-wind models and the fully in-house modern era of the Daytona, the 16520, produced from 1988 to 2000, represents a pivotal moment for Rolex. Featuring a modified Zenith El Primero movement, it was the first automatic Daytona; coupled with a beefed-up, sportier look, this model was exactly what the Daytona needed to become a hit. This piece, today, is a grail amongst many collectors, and you'll find them around £21,000 pre-owned.
Fun fact: it's easy to tell a 'Zenith' Daytona apart from its 2000s successor. Just look at the sub-dials. The 'Zenith' Daytona has its running seconds at 9:00 rather than 6:00.
Featured Watches:
Rolex 'Zenith' Daytona 16520
Sign up to the Watchfinder Newsletter for our latest special offers, limited edition giveaways and exclusive events: https://tr.ee/watchfindernewsletter
Connect with us at: https://linktr.ee/watchfinder
Watchfinder is the number one place to buy, sell and exchange premium pre-owned timepieces. Discover more exceptional watches at watchfinder.com
#Watchfinder #Rolex #Daytona #ZenithDaytona #WatchCollector
