Vintage
Miranda presents a personal and insightful look into the collectibility and rarity of the Rolex Daytona ref. 16520, the first automatic Daytona. This article delves into the nuances of its early production variations, which have become highly sought after by collectors. It serves as a valuable guide for understanding why certain iterations of this "near vintage" classic command significant attention in the market.
Collecting: The Legendary 16520- A very personal view on collectability and rarity
Launched in 1989, the 16520 is now approaching its 30thbirthday. I think we can call it a near vintage or perhaps “classic”. The first automatic Daytona, with a heart derived from the legendary El-Primero. It was an instant classic. Throughout its entire production period, the steel version was never available to buy in a shop window. The waiting list started at 2 years and by the time production ended in 2000, you couldn’t even get on a list. Ironic as the previous models 6263/6265 were never popular during production.
Today you can possibly get 3 x 16520 for the price of a “big Red” 6263. But this won’t last long for sure. Collectors are already aware, and prices have definitely firmed up. Like the 1950’s Submariners, there are versions which are eminently rarer and more collectible.
The Early Years
This is the exciting era. Between 1989 and 1990-91 there were numerous variations, these have become highly desired and rare. Now we look at these variations:
R Series 1989/90
There is essentially three variations here. This can be considered the first series of 16520:
1. The black dial, 200 units bezel with “floating” Cosmograph
2. The white dial with 200 units bezel with “floating” Cosmograph
3. White dial so called “porcelain” dial
In terms of rarity this is difficult. For sure all are rare, and for sure the Porcelain is by far the most desirable on the market, but I think the black maybe rarer. Certainly finding a black for sale is more difficult, whereas a porcelain can be found if you are willing to pay the price.
Black R series 16520
L Series 1990
Here its gets more confusing. The 200 unit bezel continued in a few models, namely with the four lines dial. The black being rarer (in fact possibly the rarest variation of any 16520). The white dial is seen more but again extremely rare. These variations are usually from the first “half” of L series. This series was followed by the 4 lines dial with unique 225 bezel. Black again rarer than the white, but more common than the previous versions, I would call them very rare as opposed to extremely rare.
I have seen a mixture 225 bezel and floating cosmography. I am not sure what to make of this. Could they be possible, yes, but I am not personally convinced. I would want it from the original owner with box/papers.
Possibly the rarest variation of the 16520? Black 200 bezel with 4 lines dial
Patrizzi dials
Another collectible is the so called “Patrizzi” dial, or tropical dial. Here the black sub dial rings are a deep chocolate brown;many call the off white or cream sub dials Patrizzi also, but I am not convinced. I would call them Panna Daytona! There is now a huge premium, I love tropical dials, but I have my own personal reservations about paying such a premium. Each to their own, they are beautiful dials.
Prototype dials
I have also seen the so called prototype dials versions. Now I am not saying that these are fake, no absolutely not, BUT I ask you, how does a prototype dial end up in a production watch? Not for me thanks.
"Panna" dial 16520?
Best
Imran
The Rolex Daytona reference 6263 represents a significant evolution within the Daytona chronograph line, distinguished by its screw-down pushers and the introduction of a black acrylic bezel. This reference, produced during the 1970s, is part of the manual-wind era of Daytonas, preceding the automatic movement versions. It is recognized for its robust construction and enhanced water resistance compared to earlier non-Oyster models, making it a practical choice for daily wear while retaining a classic aesthetic.
This reference features a 37mm stainless steel case, housing the Valjoux 727 manual-winding chronograph movement. The Valjoux 727 is an updated version of the Valjoux 72, known for its reliability and precision. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters. Its power reserve is approximately 45 hours, typical for movements of this period, providing consistent timekeeping for extended periods between winding.
For collectors, the 6263 is notable for its blend of vintage charm and improved functionality. It appeals to those who appreciate the design language of early Daytonas but seek the added security of screw-down pushers. Variants often include different dial configurations, such as the silver dial with black sub-dials or the reverse "panda" dial, which contribute to its diverse appeal within the vintage watch market. The black acrylic tachymeter bezel is a defining characteristic.
I always wondered if the black dials were rarer than the white... I was very interested in knowing more about the different variations of the 16520, which is my favorite Daytona reference. Thank you, my friend. Best, Nicolas
I think the 16520 still has a way to run but possibly hampered by the volume out there Early R 16528- I had one for a long while and it did nothing , Maybe I sold too early I found it was too"gold" and could not wear it but I maybe should have bought the SS model instead Looked great in the box but not on the wrist they were selling for similar prices and I mistakenly thought the gold would appreciate more Thus it all comes back to buying what you like not what you think the market might like Ju
lucky if you can get one for less than ÂŁ50-60k now Best Imran
But I traded it in for a lovely piece as well
I always thought that both porcelain and 225 scale were much rarer than my black 200 scale four lines, bought new in 1989/90 and paid 1.7€k which was the retail price at that time Now it’s sleeping in the safe, but good news are always more than welcome... Thanks again Best Luca
There are a few variations for the dial. From my perspective i like the 16520 more than the current 116500. I was debating to get one but I think price has since gone up. This model started the craze for the Daytonas and not the 6263 nor 6265. I was asking my father in law who was into watches why he did not get any 6263s. He is 87 now and when we ask him what he wanted for Christmas, He said a new rolex Daytona white face 116500. My brother in law went to his HK AD and pulled some strings, so t
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