Rolex

Introduced in 2000, reference 116520 marked a major leap in Rolex Daytona production, being the first ever in-house chronograph ever produced by Rolex, and thus the first ever in-house Daytona. Within the case was the brand new 4130 calibre, a result of years of research and development. To differentiate itself from its Zenith powered predecessor the 16520, Rolex moved the constant subsidiary seconds dial to 6 o’clock as opposed to the previous 9 o’clock and raised the subdials at 3 and 9 o’clock ever so slightly, with the case, bezel and bracelet remaining largely unchanged.

The Reference 116520 was produced until 2016 when it was replaced by the Reference 116500LN. The model has gained a well-deserved market recognition and is becoming increasingly difficult to acquire.

Scholars have divided the 116520 into different marks. The present lot is particularly worth of interest as it is a Mark 1 example with the correct thin hands, the 27 and 33 longer minute marks, the absence of engraved rehaut. Furthermore, as seen on some P series, its dial is starting to have a creamy patina, affectionately nicknamed 'Panna' by collectors.