Important Watches
Important Watches
Daytona 'Zenith', Reference 16523 A possibly unique stainless steel and yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with bracelet and 'Coeur de rubis' and diamond-set dial Circa 1995 | 勞力士 | Daytona 'Zenith' 型號 16523 應為獨一無二精鋼及黃金計時鍊帶腕錶,配 'Cœur de Rubis' 鑽石錶盤,製作年份約 1995
Auction Closed
November 9, 01:29 PM GMT
Estimate
100,000 - 200,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Rolex
Daytona 'Zenith', Reference 16523
A possibly unique stainless steel and yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with bracelet and 'Coeur de rubis' and diamond-set dial
Circa 1995
勞力士
Daytona 'Zenith' 型號 16523 應為獨一無二精鋼及黃金計時鍊帶腕錶,配 'Cœur de Rubis' 鑽石錶盤,製作年份約 1995
Dial: coeur de rubis, diamonds
Calibre: cal. 4030 automatic, 31 jewels
Movement number: 213'003
Case: stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, screw-down back
Case number: W'623'131
Closure: stainless steel and 18k yellow gold Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 40 mm diameter , bracelet circumference approximately 200 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: yes
Accessories: Rolex guarantee, two service warranty card the latest dated January 25, 2021, service booklet, Oyster booklet, Daytona booklet, leather card holder, COSC hang tag, numbered hang tag and presentation case with outer packaging
Distinguished by its hardstone dial, this reference 16523, might be mistaken for having a rubellite dial. However, the material used here is known as ‘Coeur de Rubis’ (Heart of Ruby), which differs somewhat in appearance and colour providing a more uniform and much deeper red. The stone is incredibly fragile and become even more so as it is worked thinner and thinner by expert craftsmen. It is, as a result, a material seldom used and those that dare usually make only very few. Each piece is ultimately a unique piece.
Originally, this timepiece was a special order made for Mr. Tarek Shah, who was at the time one of Rolex's precious and ornamental stones supplier. He made this special request and supplied the stone that Rolex would use to make his dial.
To the best of our knowledge this unusual 'Zenith' Daytona appears fresh to the market and represents the first time a Daytona with a ‘Coeur de Rubis’ dial has been available at auction. It is a rare opportunity to make the acquisition of this possibly unique timepiece. It comes as a full set and was serviced by Rolex in January 2021.