Rolex Daytona Ref. 16528 - 'Floating Cosmograph' Porcelain 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 1988 example is the rarest and most desirable 16528’s ever produced. It features a rare Floating Porcelain dial that was only produced for an extremely short period in the late 1980’s. The dial gives a wonderful effect and profound depth that is truly unlike any other piece the brand ever produced. The dial is in immaculate condition and is paired with its exceptional 18k yellow oyster case that even retains its uber rare MK. 1 bezel. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a true grail vintage Daytona.