At the end of the 1980s, precisely in 1988, Rolex completely redesigned its chronograph, introducing a model destined to define an era: Ref. 16520.

At the heart of this innovation was the automatic calibre based on the Zenith El Primero, one of the most advanced chronograph movements in the industry and among the first high-frequency calibres. Rolex modified it to meet its own standards, reducing the frequency, redesigning some components, and improving reliability, resulting in the Cal. 4030.

This was a true turning point for the Daytona, which at that time was experiencing growing popularity. Demand quickly exceeded production capacity, marking the beginning of modern Daytona collecting, with ever-longer waiting lists and increasing interest in dial and production variants.

The present lot, powered by the famous calibre derived from the Zenith El Primero, represents a timepiece of great historical significance for the brand, illustrating the transition phase that brought Rolex from the manual Daytona to the automatic chronograph, paving the way for the model’s enduring success.