Rolex Daytona Ref. 16528 - 18K Gold 'Inverted 6' Dial

The Rolex Daytona model, since its initial release, has been at the forefront of the market as the most desirable chronograph in production. Prior to the introduction of the Zenith movement, all previous Rolex chronographs were manual wind. Not until 1988 did Rolex release the Ref. 165XX, which features an automatic "self-winding" movement for their headliner sports watch. Rolex decided to outsource for their movement in this reference using the Zenith 400 movement originally manufactured for the Zenith “El-Primero.” They used this movement as the basis and then fortified it, performing approximately 200 modifications to the base movement to meet the expectations prestigious of the Wilsdorf group. This created the workhorse Rolex 4030 movement that was put in production for an era of 12 years. In this reference, Rolex also incorporated the more resilient sapphire crystals, a contributing factor to the increased depth rating guaranteed at 100m or 330ft.

This example, cased in 18k solid gold, is in absolutely exceptional condition and is extremely attractive. It’s sharp and gently polished features thick lugs and an exceptional bezel. The black “Inverted 6” dial gives the entire piece a depth and contrast that other dial configurations lack and works extraordinarily well with the yellow gold case. As well as being absolutely stunning, the black dial examples happen to be the most desirable of all the variations. Not to mention its solid 18k yellow gold oyster bracelet is tight, matching the watches overall condition. These 16528s are getting harder and harder to find, especially in exceptional condition, so this is an opportunity that may not come up again anytime soon.

*Some marks or spots on the dial are reflections or dust on the crystal and are due to high intensity strobe lighting used while photographing. They are not actually on the watch or visible in natural lighting.