Rolex Daytona Steel 116520 - 2006

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116520

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona with reference 116520 from 2006 is a milestone in modern watch history and is considered by collectors to be one of the most sought-after stainless steel sports watches of all time. Introduced in 2000 as the first Daytona with a fully in-house developed Automatic Chronograph movement by Rolex, this generation ended the era of externally sourced Zenith El Primero movements. The reference 116520 captures the pure, unwavering spirit of motorsport. With its distinctive stainless steel bezel, it exudes a unique tool watch character, making it an extremely value-stable cult object and the ultimate status symbol on the wrist.

• The iconic stainless steel bezel: Unlike today's models with ceramic bezels, this version features a high-gloss polished bezel made of solid Oystersteel. The engraved tachymeter scale allows precise measurement of average speeds up to 400 units per hour and gives the watch its unmistakable, classic monochrome appearance.

• The perfectly proportioned 40 mm case: Made from the extremely corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel family, the case impresses with its flowing lines and flat design. Despite the complex chronograph mechanics, the watch sits remarkably flat and ergonomically on the wrist.

• The legendary dial in Tri-Compax layout: Available in deep glossy black or radiant White, the watch face is distinguished by the three characteristic subdials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, framed by fine silver rings. The hands and indices are made of 18-carat White Gold to prevent tarnishing over the decades.

• The revolutionary manufacture caliber 4130: At the heart of the watch works the groundbreaking automatic Chronograph movement. The caliber 4130 is considered a technological masterpiece: it drastically reduces the number of components, uses a vertical clutch for an absolutely smooth start of the chronograph seconds hand, and offers a confident power reserve of about 72 hours thanks to a large mainspring barrel.

• Charming details of the 2006 vintage: As a model from 2006, this timepiece falls into an exciting transitional phase. It already features the modern Super-LumiNova luminous material for perfect night readability and the solid Oyster bracelet with solid end links, giving the watch an unwavering sense of quality.

• Confident protection in everyday life: Thanks to the triple-sealed Triplock winding crown and the screw-down chronograph pushers, the Daytona is absolutely dust- and waterproof up to a depth of 100 meters (10 ATM). The scratch-resistant Sapphire Crystal ensures lasting protection.

• The sporty Oyster bracelet: The Chronograph is worn on the legendary three-row Oyster stainless steel bracelet. The Oysterlock safety clasp prevents accidental opening and is equipped with the practical Easylink extension system, which allows the bracelet to be extended by 5 mm.

• A historic investment classic (2006 vintage): A Rolex Daytona 116520 from 2006 represents the golden era of pure steel bezel Daytonas. Since this design no longer exists in the current collection, this model is an extremely sought-after, historically significant collector’s piece with immense potential for value appreciation.