ROLEX, EXTREMELY RARE STAINLESS STEEL PROTOTYPE 'DAYTONA MOONRAKER', REF. 16520Important information about this lot
Estimate
USD 50,000 - USD 80,000
Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
Extremely rare and almost never publicly seen at auction, the present Rolex Daytona "Moonraker" appears to be a standard reference 116520 with silvered register rings (circa 2000-2016) and running seconds at 6 o'clock at first glance. However, a closer inspection reveals that running seconds is in fact at 9 o'clock, identifying and confirming this watch as the predecessor reference 16520 and powered by the beloved Zenith-based caliber 4030.
This subtle yet incredible timepiece amalgamates both references and is considered a 16520 with a prototype "transitional" dial as the dial is like the later reference, but has the 6 and 9 o'clock registers swapped from the difference in calibers. Furthermore, the watch has tritium luminescence, adding and ever so slightly cream color to the hands and hour markers. Offered in overall very good condition, this Daytona "Moonraker" presents as the ultimate, stealth timepiece for the astute collector of rare and unusual Rolex watches.
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You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
Movement: The movement is running and the pushers function at the time of cataloging, consistent with the age of the watch. The movement has not been tested for accuracy. A service is recommended given the age of the watch. Dial: The dial and hands have light scratches. The hour markers have oxidation and some of the lume has flaked. Case: The case has light scratches and nicks throughout and shows signs of a light polishing. Bracelet: The bracelet has some light stretching with light scratches and nicks. The end links are stamped '503 B', bracelet '78390', and clasp '78390'. Overall Condition: Very good
Please note that the bracelet size is measured with the watch head attached.
1. All lots are sold "AS IS", and this condition report is provided purely as a goodwill service and may not specify all mechanical replacements or defects. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in good condition and without defects, repairs, or restoration. You are accordingly encouraged to view the lots personally or through your own professional advisor.
2. For further information on these issues, please refer to the terms and conditions.
We thank you for your interest in the forthcoming sale. We remind you again that all property is sold “as is” and should be viewed personally by you or by your professional advisor before the sale to assess its condition.