Rolex
1997 Rolex Zenith Daytona (Ref. 16528) 18k YG Unpolished Box and Papers
Watches like this rarely come out of collections to be offered on the open market, especially in this condition. This time-capsule Rolex "Zenith era" Daytona from 1997 is nothing short of exceptional. From the unpolished case that has achieved an excellent rosy patina to the complete accessories the watch comes with, the most acceptable description for this ensemble is "collectors set".
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 a manual wind, and not until 1988 did Rolex release the Ref. 16500, 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 then fortified it, performing approximately 200 modifications to the base movement to meet the prestigious expectations 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, being a contributing factor to the increased depth rating guaranteed at 100m or 330ft.
| Stock # | RLXDTYG16528 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Daytona | |
| Model | 16528 | |
| Serial | U3XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | 18k Yellow Gold | |
| Dial | Champagne Black Sub Dials | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Strap | 18K Yellow Gold 78398 Oyster Bracelet with 103 Solid End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The 18k yellow gold Daytona case remains in factory unpolished condition, showing little signs of use. The bezel remains in sharp unpolished condition, showing very light signs of use. The green case back sticker is still firmly affixed to the unpolished caseback. The 18K yellow gold Rolex 78398 Oyster bracelet with 103 solid end pieces remains unpolished as well and exhibits no stretch, retaining all factory links. Both the watch and the bracelet have achieved a rosy patina from being stored.
DIAL & HANDS
ACCESSORIES
This watch comes complete with the original Rolex inner and outer boxes, the original paperwork, both hang tags, Rolex leather cardholder, instruction booklets, and original Rolex polishing cloth.