In 1988 Zenith Daytona watches, as they became unofficially known, introduced the overall design template that continues to define the Rolex Daytona collection today. The new generation of Daytona watches were larger at 40mm, and Rolex introduced crown-guards, and switched from acrylic to sapphire crystals. Most significantly, Rolex moved away from manual movements to an automatic one that was based on the Zenith El Primero chronograph. Some, not all, of the original black dial ref. 16520’s (made between 1994 and 1998) used an organic varnish, called Zapon, to protect Daytona’s face. Unrecognized at the time, the lacquer did not provide sufficient coverage and, over the years, the silver outer tracks on sub dials have oxidized, turning a definite golden-brown color as they react with UV rays. This phenomenon was discovered by Osvaldo Patrizzi, the watchmaker who founded Antiquorum Auctioneers and the dials were named after him. The changes do not stabilize and continue to take effect dial in rather unpredictable ways. Consequently, each of the flawed so-called Patrizzi ages uniquely. This feature sets these models apart in the modern era of standardized models; and in the world of collecting unique equals value. The watch we are offering was stored lovingly with its full accessories and not worn very often. The Patrizzi ring chapters are in the middle stages of turning color and as the next owner wears the piece, he/she will be enjoying the watch as it develops its individual character. In this condition with full accessories (including, warranty, hang tag, stickers original purchase receipt, and an extra link) this one is a true collector dream of a modern Daytona.
Patrizzi Dial Daytona 16520 Key Features: Reference Number: 16520 Production Years: 1988 – 2000 (Patrizzi Dials on Select Years Only) Case Size: 40mm Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, 12-Hour Chronograph, Tachymeter Bezel Bezel: Fixed, Stainless-Steel w/ Engraved Tachymeter Scale Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers Luminous Material: Tritium Crystal: Sapphire Movement: Zenith El Primero Based Caliber 4030 Water Resistance: 100 Meters / 330 Feet
