Rolex
Daytona Patrizzi Dial Stainless Steel 16520

Our Opinion

Offered here is a practically unworn full-set example of the highly sought-after Rolex Daytona reference 16520 manufactured circa 1994. Nicknamed by collectors the ‘PATRIZZI DIAL’ and with the manufacturing error of the inverted 6 in the sub-dial at 6 o’clock.

This rare Rolex Cosmograph Daytona with the ‘Patrizzi’ dial (ref. 16520 - Cal. 4030) features the famous brown discolouration of the sub-chapter rings, named after the Italian collector, Osvaldo Patrizzi. It is recognised that the Patrizzi dials are only prevalent in the serial number range of S, N, T and W.

The ‘PATRIZZI’ name refers specifically to the discolouration of the sub-dial rings, because of an organic varnish that allowed the silver elements of the dial to oxidize over time. Although this could be seen as a manufacturing error by Rolex at the time, Patrizzi Daytona has become highly collectable today.

The 16520 references and particularly with the ‘PATRIZZI DIAL AND INVERTED 6’ in the vintage Daytona lineup, have soared in popularity over the last decade and have become increasingly coveted by all serious collectors.
DESCRIPTION AND DETAILS
The overall condition of this vintage Daytona is excellent and appears to be practically unworn. The case does not show signs of being over-polished, with the lugs all remaining symmetrical along with the top edges of the brushed finish being well defined.
This ‘PATRIZZI DIAL’ with the additional line of writing ‘OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED’ is correct for its S158--- serial number range and is in flawless condition, the tritium lume has aged beautifully and is consistent in colour and texture to the dial hour plots and hands. All the tritium still glows for a short period confirming they were all born together.
The bezels MKIII stainless steel counting ring is in excellent condition, with no dings or scratches along with the engraving with the black enamel writing and numbers being very clear and sharp.
The watch comes on the reference 78390 bracelet with 503b end links, the bracelet is in excellent condition showing only minimal stretch and wear.
This stunning ‘PATRIZZI DIAL’ Daytona is accompanied by all its original Rolex accessories comprising of inner and outer boxes, booklets, hang tags, cleaning cloth, calendar card, translation booklet, cardholder and guarantee certificate dated December 1994.