The Rolex Daytona 116520, a watch that needs little introduction, holds a coveted place in horological history. Its clean lines, iconic bezel, and legendary performance have cemented its status as a grail watch for many collectors. But beyond its striking exterior lies a fascinating story of engineering and modification, a story that begins with a heavily modified Zenith El Primero movement. This article will delve deep into the inner workings of the 116520, exploring its movement, examining its market value, and providing a comprehensive overview of this remarkable timepiece.
Rolex Daytona 116520 Review: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The 116520, produced from 2000 to 2020, represents a significant chapter in the Daytona's evolution. Before its introduction, the Daytona used movements sourced from Zenith. However, Rolex's meticulous approach to quality and precision led them to extensively modify the Zenith El Primero movement, resulting in the calibre 4130. This wasn't a simple rebranding; Rolex significantly altered the movement, making it uniquely their own.
One of the most notable changes was the reduction in the beats per hour (bph) from 36,000 (5 Hz) to 28,800 (4 Hz). This seemingly minor alteration significantly impacted the movement's architecture and performance. While the higher frequency of the original El Primero offered greater precision theoretically, Rolex opted for the lower frequency to enhance the movement's robustness, reliability, and power reserve. The lower frequency also allowed for a simplified design, reducing the number of components and contributing to increased longevity. The result is a movement known for its exceptional dependability and consistent timekeeping.
Beyond the bph reduction, Rolex implemented numerous other modifications. They redesigned the escapement, improved the winding mechanism, and optimized the chronograph function. The column-wheel chronograph mechanism, a hallmark of high-end chronographs, ensures smooth and precise operation of the chronograph functions. The calibre 4130 boasts a 72-hour power reserve, a significant improvement over the original El Primero, allowing for extended wear without the need for frequent winding. The movement’s architecture was also redesigned for improved efficiency and reliability. Rolex's modifications weren't just cosmetic; they fundamentally improved the movement's performance and longevity.
The 116520's case, typically crafted from stainless steel, is known for its robust construction and water resistance. The iconic tachymeter bezel, a crucial feature for timing speed, is a testament to the watch's racing heritage. The dial, available in various colours, including black, white, and champagne, is characterized by its clear and legible design. The sub-dials, meticulously placed, provide a balanced and aesthetically pleasing layout. The overall design is a perfect blend of functionality and elegance, making the 116520 both a highly practical and highly desirable timepiece.
Rolex Daytona 116520 Retail Price & Market Value: A Collector's Dream
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