1997 Rolex Daytona WG Tritium Zenith Movement Ref.16519

A rare Bird       - The so-called Zenith Daytona was firstly launched in 1988 as the first self-winding Daytona from Rolex sized at 40mm and featuring a Sapphire crystal. Because Rolex at that time wasn't able to master it themselves they introduced the watch with the Zenith Cal.4030 automatic movement. It was an upgraded version of the original El Primero Cal.400 with extensive modifications. The 16520 in stainless steel was the first reference launched with this movement and it was produced until year 2000 with around 5 different dial configurations. The yellow gold variant reference 16528 was launched at the same time and produced until year 2000. In 1991 a new reference was launched, the 16528, which was the first Daytona offered on leather strap in 18K yellow gold, it was also the first Daytona ever to show a Racing dial with Arabic numerals. The white gold variant, which is the model we are offering here, is the reference 16519 and was only launched in 1997 with a 4 year production run until year 2000. All in all this tells us that the 16519 is a pretty rare reference in the Rolex world. Moreover the late appearance of the 16519 almost coincides with the phase out of Tritium dials in 1998, lets us picture that this dial variant of the 16519 might have been in production for less than a year. This very watch is a great example of a early Tritium 16519 retained in excellent condition. The white gold case is very fat and healthy with strong proportions. Further its free of any major dents and dings with a equally well preserved bezel. The white 'T Swiss Made T' dial is in great condition and still bears the original Tritium hands. A brand new black Rolex Alligator strap has just been installed. The example offered here is a truly rare bird under the Daytonas and we haven't seen one in a long time. We are happy to have one available in a stronger standing than ever.