Three generations of the White Rolex Daytona

For watch lovers, few names evoke the same level of admiration as the Rolex Daytona. It's a chronograph with a legendary following—especially in its white dial configurations. The references 16520, 116520, and 116500LN each represent a pivotal moment in the Daytona’s evolution, with subtle details and technical milestones that have captivated collectors for decades. In this blog, we take a closer look at three generations of the White Rolex Daytona, celebrating what makes each of them a standout in both form and function.

16520 - Zenith-Powered Automatic Debut:
The Rolex Daytona reference 16520 marked the beginning of the automatic era for the Daytona line in 1988. It is powered by the well-known Zenith El Primero–based Calibre 4030, extensively reworked by Rolex for enhanced reliability and precision. The case size grew from 37.5 MM to the current 40 MM, and the crystal was upgraded to sapphire for greater durability. Produced from 1988 until 2000, this generation is famous for dial nuances, such as ‘Floating Cosmograph’, ‘Patrizzi’ sub-dials, and the ‘inverted 6’ that give each example distinctive character and underpin the reference’s enduring collectability.

16520 - Complete Set & Accessories
A complete set from this era typically includes the wooden presentation box, warranty papers, and booklets, with some examples accompanied by service paperwork. These period-correct accessories amplify the 16520’s charm, acting as a time capsule.

116520 - First In-House Calibre 4130
This generation was in production from 2000 to 2016, featuring the first in-house chronograph movement by Rolex and the first in the line-up with a 72-hour power reserve. The case received a subtle cosmetic refresh to the lugs, shifting from matte to high-polish for a more elegant, modern look. Hour markers on the dial were enlarged for better legibility, and after 2004, Rolex also introduced broader hands. In addition, equipped with the Rolex’s Easylink extension system, which allows a tool-free 5 mm adjustment. Furthermore, the luminous material was updated from Super-LumiNova to Rolex’s modern Chromalight, offering a longer-lasting glow and shifting in colour from green to a crisp blue. This reference is renowned for the ‘APH’ dial error, where a small space appears before the last three letters of the word ‘COSMOGRAPH.’

116520 - Complete Set & Accessories
A complete set from this generation includes either the wooden box or the green wave presentation box, warranty papers or card, booklets and hang tags. These periodic accessory updates highlight a continual drive to improve, whether in performance or feel.

116500LN - Cerachrom Bezel Era
The most noticeable update on this series is the Cerachom bezel, transforming the bezel from a scratch magnet to a durable eye-catcher. Manufactured from 2016 to 2023, it stands on the shoulders of its predecessor. It retains the in-house movement, Calibre 4130. The returning black sub-dials, as on the 16520, boost contrast and, together with the bezel, give the watch its ‘Panda’ nickname. The bezel, the polished case, the Chromalight dial, and the Easylink extension result in the most durable Daytona for everyday wear and tear.

116500LN - Complete Set & AccessoriesA complete set from this generation includes the green wave presentation box, either small or medium, a warranty card, either white or green, booklets and hang tags.

Whether it’s the dial quirks of the Zenith-era 16520, the first in-house movement of the 116520, or the modern robustness of the 116500LN with its Cerachrom bezel, each of these Daytonas holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. These aren’t just watches—they’re benchmarks in Rolex history. And when accompanied by their original accessories, they become even more than the sum of their parts: true collector-grade icons that continue to inspire passion across generations of enthusiasts.