Important Watches: Part II
Important Watches: Part II
Daytona 'Patrizzi Zenith', Reference 16520 | Stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet and 'tropical' subsidiary dials | Circa 1997
Lot Closed
November 7, 12:13 PM GMT
Estimate
20,000 - 40,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Rolex
Daytona 'Patrizzi Zenith', Reference 16520
Stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet and 'tropical' subsidiary dials
Circa 1997
Dial: black
Calibre: cal. 4030 automatic, 31 jewels
Movement number: 152'514
Case: stainless steel, screw-down case back
Case number: U'284'465
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 40 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 185 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
Accessories: associated pouch
After 25 years of manual winding Daytona, the introduction of the automatic reference 16520 was the most important evolution in the history of the celebrated model. The watch was completely redesigned and was fitted with the new calibre 4030 based on the Zenith El Primero. Even if the 16520 was produced for only a dozen years, the model saw several developments, mainly consisting in the layout of the dial. In fact, 5 different changes have been identified.
For watch collectors, the patina of the dial plays a key role. More than a sign of authenticity, it reveals the passage of time, reflects the personal life of the timepiece and gives it a unique character and appeal. With the standardization of the watch production and the use of more stable components, most of the pieces produced after 1990 are lacking this essential aspect. This rule is also true for the famous Rolex chronograph. Nonetheless, there are a few exceptions, as demonstrated by the present specimen. Some of the 16520s fitted with a black dial produced between 1993 and 1997 have seen their silver chapter rings of their subsidiary dials changing colour to a tropical brown shade. Referred as Patrizzi, each piece has a different patina, making them unique. Some are more appealing than others and enthusiasts will favour a rich, pronounced patina such as the present lot. Its subsidiary dials have turned into an harmonious and deep brown patina that is immediately captivating and recognizable while remaining unique.