Rolex’s first automatic Daytona was introduced in 1988. Housing the iconic Zenith-based caliber 4030, it featured a larger case and was fitted with a sapphire crystal. The watch immediately became a cult classic and garnered an immediate waiting list at Rolex retailers. The gold version reference 16528 was a luxurious alternative to its stainless steel counterpart reference 16520.

The present watch is a very impressive example and preserved in most probably unpolished condition. The fine bevel on the outer edge of the bezel, crisp numbers between the lugs and thick definition on the outside case back are all tell-tale signs that the watch has never seen intervention throughout its lifetime. Furthermore, all hallmarks are crisp, unrubbed and very deep. As watches from the 1980s and 19980s are increasingly considered "neo-vintage", unspoiled examples are harder and harder to come by. As such, when a watch like the present example comes on the market, it provides an incredible opportunity to acquire a rare specimen.