Rolex Daytona 16518

Rolex 1997 Cosmograph "Zenith" Daytona 40mm 18K Watch

Rolex 1997 Cosmograph "Zenith" Daytona 40mm 18K Yellow Gold Watch W/Alligator Strap (Ref. 16518) - This iconic timepiece is the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, reference number 16518, which marks a pivotal moment for the luxury watch maker. The Daytona is one of the brand's most sought-after models, which has made it only accessible from official Rolex retailers to VIP customers, or those who patiently wait for years. The 1652X series was the first automatic Daytona, making this a fantastic investment piece for Rolex collectors and watch enthusiasts alike. The watch is powered by a Zenith movement, one of the most legendary chronograph movements in the world, which was modified by Rolex to create the caliber 4030. The watch has a 40mm 18k yellow gold case, 18k yellow gold engraved tachymeter bezel, Rolex alligator bracelet with folding Fliplock clasp, white dial with red Daytona lettering, chronograph sub-dials, applied gold hands and Arabic numeral hour markers, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. As the first automatic Daytona, the Rolex Zenith has become a cult favorite among loyal collectors and is therefore very difficult to find. Serial #: U46XXXX. A serial number look up suggests that this watch was produced in 1997.