2000 Rolex ref. 116520 Daytona Panna dial

Established in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, Rolex revolutionized watchmaking with the first waterproof Oyster in 1926. Pioneering innovations like the self-winding Perpetual movement in 1931 solidified Rolex’s reputation for precision and reliability. Through iconic models like the Submariner and Daytona, Rolex attained global prominence, symbolizing luxury, exceptional craftsmanship, and enduring quality in the world of watches.

Among the classics of the Rolex manufacture, the Daytona has a special place. Celebrated broadly by collectors of all ages, it is a grail watch for many and the variety in ist designs and movement, given ist longevity, offer a wide range of choice for each to have its own favorite.

This version, under the reference 116520, ist he first one with a fully in-house produced movement, and the first automatic chronograph movement mae by Rolex.

It was made in 2000, and is part of a batch where dials would turn to a cream color over the years, developping the so-called “Panna” patina. The patina on this example is subtle and will strengthen over the years.

Owned until recently by a French collector, it is ready to take an important place into a new collection.