Nobody doubts Rolex when it comes to their meticulous art of setting well-matched and stunning stones in their watches. Since the 1980s, the brand has perfected the integration of precious materials with sports watches, giving rise to an entirely new genre of tool watches that are glamorous, luxurious and eye-catching. The present 16588 features a dazzling factory original version of the iconic Cosmograph Daytona, with a striking baguette-cut pink sapphire-set bezel that immediately captivates the eye.

This reference also boasts a bezel designed with fixed gold bars, perfectly aligning with the diamond-set dial’s pink sapphire hour markers. The 5-digit reference indicates that the watch houses the caliber 4030—Rolex’s first self-winding chronograph movement based on the Zenith El Primero, which imbues the watch with a vintage charm.

Notably, the present watch is offered by the original owner, who purchased it in 1997 for a substantial HKD 412,750. Worn only a couple of times, it was subsequently set aside as a collector’s piece due to its significance. For 28 years, it has remained untouched, resulting in a case that has never been polished and has developed a lovely layer of patina. The caseback sticker remains in mint condition, without any discoloration and firmly adhered to the caseback.

Not only has the watch been preserved like a time capsule, but its accompanying accessories are also in pristine condition. It comes as a complete set, including the guarantee, original purchase invoice, calendar card, a red leather notepad, and a pen. Clearly, reference 16588 has already achieved classic status, as it belongs to a generation of Daytonas when intricate case and dial decorations were rare and always reserved for the most important clients of Rolex. Finding a full set example in near-mint condition is extraordinarily uncommon.