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2005 Rolex Daytona 116520 - Stainless Steel Black Dial

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Details

The First In-House Daytona

The reference 116520 is a landmark in the history of the world's most famous chronograph. Introduced in 2000, it was the first Daytona to house a movement built entirely by Rolex, the Caliber 4130. This was a monumental achievement, ending the brand's reliance on Zenith-based ebauches and establishing the Daytona as a truly independent and technically superior watch. The Caliber 4130 was not just a replacement but a complete re-engineering, featuring fewer components for increased reliability and a larger mainspring that boosted the power reserve to 72 hours. This reference represents the moment the modern Daytona came into its own.

An Unpolished Example Of A Discontinued Classic

Produced until 2016, the 116520 is the last stainless steel Daytona to feature a matching steel bezel, a core design element of the original vision for the watch. This 2010 example is notable for its excellent, unpolished condition. Finding a piece from this era that has not been refinished is increasingly difficult, and it speaks to a life of careful ownership. The black dial provides a clean, high-contrast backdrop for the chronograph registers, creating the definitive look that dominated the sports watch world for over a decade.

Excellent Original Condition

This watch is in excellent condition. The case is unpolished, retaining its original factory lines and sharp edges. The black dial is flawless, and the engraved steel tachymeter bezel is clean. The Oyster bracelet is tight and shows minimal signs of wear. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.

The Modern Benchmark

The 116520 is the benchmark for the modern sports chronograph. Its combination of robust in-house engineering, perfect 40mm proportions, and timeless design made it one of the most sought-after watches of its time, a status it still holds today. This is the right choice for a collector who wants the most significant steel Daytona of the 21st century in honest, original condition. It is a watch that defined an era.
Key Specs
Reference: 116520
Model: Cosmograph Daytona
Year: 2005
Movement: Automatic (Cal. 4130)
Case Size: 40mm
Bezel: Fixed Stainless Steel Tachymeter
Bracelet: Oyster
Bracelet Length: 7.9in
Dial: Black
Metal: Stainless Steel
SKU: 11135
2005 Rolex Daytona 116520 Stainless Steel Black Dial Automatic 40mm
2005 Rolex Daytona 116520 - Stainless Steel Black Dial Sale price$24,500.00 USD

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!