Rolex Daytona Cosmograph 40mm Oystersteel – 116520

Ref: 116520

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona holds an important place in the modern Daytona timeline. It represents the first generation of automatic Daytona powered by Rolex’s own in-house chronograph movement. This example is presented in stainless steel with a black dial, fixed stainless steel tachymeter bezel, and stainless steel Oyster bracelet. It is a practical luxury sports chronograph with real everyday versatility. For the collector, it offers the strength of a modern Rolex with the character of the pre-ceramic Daytona era. The black dial gives this reference a sharper, more restrained presence, making it one of the most compelling stainless steel Daytona executions from its generation.

Condition
This timepiece exceeds the Watches of Charlotte standard for quality, presentation, and overall condition. It is offered in very good condition and has been reviewed with the level of care we expect from a serious collector-grade example.

Functional Value
The Daytona was built around timing, clarity, and durability. Its chronograph function and tachymeter bezel give the watch purpose beyond appearance, while the 40mm stainless steel case keeps it highly wearable.

Design Significance
Reference 116520 is meaningful because it marked the arrival of Rolex’s in-house caliber 4130 in the Daytona line. The stainless steel bezel also gives this generation a distinct identity before the later ceramic Daytona references entered the market.

Versatility in Wear
The black dial makes this Daytona especially easy to wear across settings. It has the presence of a serious luxury sports watch, but it remains balanced enough for daily wear, travel, and more polished occasions.

Strategic Role in a Collection
This Daytona fits well as the cornerstone chronograph in a focused Rolex collection. It also makes sense for the collector who wants a discontinued stainless steel Daytona with modern reliability, strong brand recognition, and long-term relevance.

Included
Rolex White Outer Box
Rolex Green Inner Box
Rolex Factory Service Booklet
All Original Bracelet Links

Authenticity

With over a decade of experience in the industry, we at Watches of Charlotte pride ourselves on being a trusted name in the industry. We work with watchmakers to authenticate our watches so we can guarantee that all of our pieces are 100% authentic and original. All photos used in our listings are taken in-house and are of the actual timepieces being purchased. We fully stand behind the authenticity of every product we sell. For extra peace of mind, eBay also offers an Authenticity Guarantee. This means that every detail of your watch is inspected by independent experts before you receive it, so you can have complete confidence. Our commitment to providing exceptional service has garnered us a loyal, worldwide clientele and a 5-star ranking on eBay, Facebook and elsewhere – check our reviews!

About Us

We love everything about watches and thoroughly appreciate helping others discover the enjoyment of this pastime. Whether it’s helping you find your grail or the next watch to fill that empty slot in your watch box, we consider it a privilege to be part of your journey. Our aim is to be as fully transparent as possible in all our listings. Please let us know if you have questions about this watch or any of the others we have for sale. We’re always willing to entertain trade values up or down. We look forward to helping you secure your next timepiece!