Originally conceived as a utilitarian timepiece, the Cosmograph Daytona typically boasted a stainless steel case. Nevertheless, Rolex's innovative spirit led to the introduction of gem-set models as early as the 1980s. These groundbreaking models, such as references 6269 and 6270, were manufactured in exceedingly limited quantities, and are now regarded as the crown jewels of vintage Rolex collecting.

In the 1990s, Rolex intensified its endeavors for ultra-exclusive Daytonas by introducing gem-set iterations of their inaugural self-winding Daytona, featuring the renowned Zenith El-Primero based caliber 4030. A truly dazzling variant both literally and metaphorically, the present reference 16568 with baguette diamond-set bezel is certainly one of the rarest and most eye-catching.

Consdiered the direct successor to the elusive reference 6270, the reference 16568’s bezel features fixed, heavy gold bars in line with the dial’s emerald-set hour markers, acting as an hour chapter. While some examples of this reference were fitted with pavé diamond-set silver dials, the present example’s champagne dial with matching sub-dials perfectly complements the sharp yellow gold case. Preserved in outstanding overall condition, the case is in our opinion unpolished, with only minimal signs of careful wear and handling.

In a time when modern gem-set Daytonas are being offered as special, out-of-catalogue pieces to top clients, it is now evident how small the production run of the reference 16568 was, further enhancing its desirability amongst collectors.