Top Condition 1996 Rolex Daytona ref. 16523 “Zenith, Black Dial”

Up for grabs is a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in steel and 18kt gold

Reference 16523 with Zenith based movement

T serial number circa 1996 production.

Now, many sellers and dealers LOVE to misuse the word “new old stock” and “unpolished”. Please look and read before agreeing to those statements.

The case is in fantastic shape. The lugs clearly have factory finish on them with sharp edges. I am confident to say this has never been polished after Rolex produced it. I do not want to call this watch new old stock, as I believe it has been worn briefly. But, take a look between the lug. No gunk, no bracelet wear, perfect crisp numbers.

Next we look at the caseback. The original sticker is clean, still can read the full number of the reference number. No gunk on edges, very light wear of the sticker itself.

Take a look at the bezel. Its gold, so after 25 years of live, it will always have light scratches. A simple handoff from salesperson in 1990’s (we don’t know when it was actually sold) to a new owner, would put some already on there. But, look at the original bevel thats always lost during polish and heavy wear. Crisp, sharp, all enamel is still intact on numbers.

Dial is original and is in perfect condition. All tritium is intact.

The bracelet has no stretch from wear, 12 links, Z date code (period correct), very crisp Rolex Coronet on clasp.

There are no boxes or papers, but it is a top example of a Zenith Daytona!