After 25 years of manual winding Daytona, the introduction of the automatic reference 16520 was the most important evolution in the history of the celebrated model. The watch was completely 🥀redesigned and was fitted with the new calibre 4030 based on the Zenith El Primero. Even if the 16520 was produced for only a dozen years, the model saw several developments, mainly consisting in the layout of the dial. In fact, 5 different changes have been identified and the present lot is part of the third iteration di𒉰stinguished by the 5 lines of text and the 'inverted 6' within the hours chronograph counter.

For watch collectors, the patina of the dial plays a key role. More than a sign of authenticity, it reveals the passage of time, reflects the personal life of the timepiece and gives it a unique character and appeal. With the standardization of the watch production and the use of more stable compon🌌ents, most of the pieces produced after 1990 are lacking this essential aspect. This rule is also true for the famous Rolex chronograph. Nonetheless, there are a few exce🏅ptions, as demonstrated by the present specimen. Some of the 16520s fitted with a black dial produced between 1993 and 1997 have seen their silver chapter rings of their subsidiary dials changing color to a 'tropical' brown shade. 

Highly attractive, the present lot already turned to s🅺uch a dark brown color that it app𓆏ears black, hence the nickname 'Darth Vader'. 

While a 16520 Darth Vader is already a true rarity, this example is further disti💧nguished by its inverted 6 dial. Less than a handful of pieces are known with this combination. This dramatically increases the desirability of this specimen and elevates it to a different league. ꦛ;

This incredible piece is f𒅌urther offered as a complete set with guarantee and presentation case.