Rolex Daytona Ref. 16520, Circa 1995

Originally released in 1963, the Rolex Daytona has, without a doubt, grown to be one of the most iconic and recognizable watches in the world. Initially designed as a chronograph for professional racing drivers, the then, “pre-Daytona” quickly gained popularity.

Throughout the Daytona’s storied history, reference number 16520 released in 1988, was groundbreaking, as it was powered by the marque’s first automatic chronograph movement—the Caliber 4030, produced by Zenith. One of the most notable and now collectable aspects of the 16520, specifically in a few black dial variants, is the “Patrizzi” effect. Named after Osvaldo Patrizzi, an Italian auctioneer who first identified and popularized the unique, reddish-brown discoloration of the sub—a result of a chemical reaction between the paint and exposure to sunlight.

Photographed here, our 1995 Rolex Daytona 16520 “Patrizzi” is in great overall condition. With its sub-dials flashing that highly sought after tint, this is sure to be an example that will age very well.

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