The year 1999 marked a significant point in the history of the Rolex Daytona. This wasn't a year of groundbreaking design changes, but rather a year representing the culmination of a specific era – the Zenith-powered era of the iconic chronograph. Understanding the 1999 Rolex Daytona, specifically the reference 16520, requires delving into its history, its place within the Daytona lineage, and its current market position. The recent listing of a full set 16520 for €638 (excluding shipping) highlights the enduring appeal and collectability of these timepieces, even as prices for earlier and later models have soared.
Before we dive into the specifics of the 1999 model, let's briefly explore the context surrounding it. The demand for and subsequent price appreciation of vintage and modern Rolex Daytonas has made them some of the most sought-after watches in the world. The 1992 Daytona, often associated with the 24 Hours of Daytona race, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, and its prices reflect this. However, the 1992 Daytona winner's watch, the reference 6263 or 16520 (depending on the specific year), is a different beast entirely, commanding astronomical prices at auction and rarely appearing on the open market. Searching for "Rolex Daytona 1992 price," "1992 Daytona winner Rolex price," "Rolex watches Daytona 1992 winner," or "Rolex Daytona 1992 for sale" will reveal the significant price differences between standard production models and those with unique historical significance, such as a watch worn by a winning driver. Even a search for the specific reference number "78488 Rolex Daytona winner 1992" or "Rolex winner 24 1992 price" will yield limited results, emphasizing the rarity of these pieces.
The Rolex Daytona reference 16520, produced from 1988 to 2000, represents a transitional period in the Daytona's history. Preceding it were the manually wound Daytonas, powered by movements like the Valjoux 72, and the later models would feature the in-house caliber 4130. The 16520, however, was powered by the El Primero movement, manufactured by Zenith. This collaboration between Rolex and Zenith resulted in a robust and highly accurate chronograph movement, modified to Rolex's exacting specifications. The 1999 example is part of this lineage, inheriting the qualities that made the 16520 so desirable: a reliable movement, a classic design, and a compelling history.
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