THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16528
YEAR: 1997
BOX/PAPERS: NO/YES (ROLEX SERVICE)
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
The Rolex 165xx line, introduced in 1988, marks an important chapter in Rolex’s history as the brand's very first automatic Daytona model. Nicknamed the "Zenith Daytona", these watches are powered by the Rolex calibre 4030, a heavily modified version of the Zenith El Primero movement, as opposed to the Valjoux-based hand-wound movement found in the earlier four-digit Daytonas. The 165xx line also introduced a completely redesigned, larger, and more modern case — one that laid the foundation for the modern Daytona models we see today.
Over the past two decades, Zenith Daytonas have become increasingly popular among collectors, and deservedly so. The three subdials on Zenith Daytonas are perfectly symmetrical and centred, maintaining the iconic look of their four-digit predecessors. As the only Daytona series with a five-digit reference, Zenith Daytonas were produced for a relatively short period between 1988 and 2000 (compared to 1963–1988 for four-digit models and 2000–present for six-digit models).
The present example, reference 16528, is constructed entirely in 18K yellow gold. It features a stunning champagne MK3 ‘inverted 6’ dial with black subdial rings. Some aging is visible on the dial, which only adds to its character. The case remains sharp, as do the MK3 bezel and the original 78398 Oyster bracelet. Originally manufactured in 1997, the watch has recently undergone a Rolex service and remains under warranty. It performs exceptionally well, running at +3 s/d, 290 amplitude, and a beat error of 0.2.
Despite its historical importance and collectibility, full-gold Zenith Daytonas, such as the present example, still represent incredible value compared to their steel counterparts and the asking prices of modern full-gold Daytonas. This lovely example of Rolex’s neo-vintage classic would be a proud addition to any collection.