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Lot Essay
The present watch is one of the extremely rare "R"-series models of reference 16528 to appear in public, distinguished by the white porcelain-style dial. Its rarity is further enhanced by the excellent overall condition and the presence of the original guarantee, accessories and box.
Launched in 1988, the ref. 16500 series comprised the first automatic chronographs to be introduced by Rolex, marking an end to the production of hand-wound Daytona models. The series initially used a modified Zenith El Primero movement, which was later replaced by the 4030 caliber developed in-house by Rolex. This new movement was itself based on Zenith's caliber 400 and contained about 200 modifications.
The present reference 16528 is from the R-series, featuring a so-called "porcelain" dial, produced in an exceedingly small number only. The dials were in fact layered with a coating resembling porcelain, signatures and scales printed on top, giving it an almost floating appearance. The intention behind this version was to render it a more appealing look. Due to high production cost, manufacture of these dials was soon ceased, rendering the ref. 16528 "R" models much sought after collectors watches.
Launched in 1988, the ref. 16500 series comprised the first automatic chronographs to be introduced by Rolex, marking an end to the production of hand-wound Daytona models. The series initially used a modified Zenith El Primero movement, which was later replaced by the 4030 caliber developed in-house by Rolex. This new movement was itself based on Zenith's caliber 400 and contained about 200 modifications.
The present reference 16528 is from the R-series, featuring a so-called "porcelain" dial, produced in an exceedingly small number only. The dials were in fact layered with a coating resembling porcelain, signatures and scales printed on top, giving it an almost floating appearance. The intention behind this version was to render it a more appealing look. Due to high production cost, manufacture of these dials was soon ceased, rendering the ref. 16528 "R" models much sought after collectors watches.