Rolex

Introduced in 2000, reference 116520 marked a major leap in Rolex Daytona production, being the first ever in-house chronograph ever produced by Rolex, and thus the first ever in-house Daytona. Within the case was the brand new 4130 calibre, made completely in house and a result of years of research and development. To differentiate itself from its Zenith powered predecessor the 16520, Rolex moved the constant subsidiary seconds dial to 6 o’clock as opposed to the previous 9 o’clock and raised the subdials at 3 and 9 o’clock ever so slightly, with the case, bezel and bracelet remaining largely unchanged.

The present watch is made even more special due to the natural ageing of the dial. From the original stark white color, the dial has developed an even patina due to exposure to sunlight and humidity, resulting in a color change into rich cream. Only dials produced during a very small production period have the capacity to turn creamy, and for a dial to turn as creamy as the present watch is exceedingly rare. As no two watches age in the same way, it can even be said that the present watch is unique.