232 Rolex Outstanding and Attractive, Daytona Cosmograph, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Porcelain Dial Displaying “Floating” Logo, With Warranty, Reference 16 528

Estimate: €75,000 –⁠ 150,000

Model: Daytona
Reference: 16 528
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1988
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 4030
Case N°: R938881
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Warranty and Booklets

1988 is definitely an important year for Rolex. That was the year when the brand introduce a completely new reference for the Cosmograph Daytona, with the 16 500 series marking an end to the production of hand-wound Daytona models, powered by the legendary Zenith calibre 4030. This “neo-vintage” era of the Zenith Daytona has always been fascinating, and this watch would feature traits which are captivating to watch collectors. The present reference 16 528 is from the R-series, featuring a so-called “porcelain“ dial, produced in an exceedingly small number only. Cased in a handsome sheen of yellow gold, is fitted with the highly sought-after porcelain dial. These dials were layered with a coating resembling porcelain, signatures and scales printed on top, giving it an almost floating appearance. The intention behind this version was to render it a more appealing look. Due to high production cost, manufacture of these dials was soon ceased, rendering the ref. 16 528 “R” models much sought after by collectors of watches. Another difference is the “floating Cosmograph” which shows the designation “Cosmograph” with a marked distance from the previous “Officially Certified” lines. In later dial versions the designation Cosmograph is found immediately below the other descriptive lines. In conjunction with its floating dial, this early version reference 16 528 boasts the correct version of the tachymetre scale calibrated to 200 units and not the 400 units found in subsequent versions. Extremely scarcely produced for only less than one year from the second half of 1988 to the first half of 1989, the ref. 16 528 is considered a grail in the market today and the present example is a great opportunity for lovers and collectors of the beloved Daytona to acquire an extremely rare and early example of this reference, further embellished by the original warranty.