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Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero
Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero
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Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero
Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero
Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero
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Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero

  • This Rolex Daytona "El Primero" is one of the most significant timepieces currently available
  • The automatic chronograph is powered by the legendary Zenith El Primero movement
  • The factory gem-set yellow gold edition features a diamond-paved dial with applied ruby hour markers
  • This limited-edition Daytona is accompanied by its complete original set and is completely unworn
  • Get complete item description here
$249,000
Item No. 32-0702

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Description
Highly coveted and exceptionally rare, this Rolex Daytona Cosmograph "El Primero" is a masterpiece of horology and one of the most significant timepieces currently available. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, this automatic chronograph is powered by the legendary Zenith El Primero movement—Rolex's first self-winding chronograph caliber. Between 1988 and 2000, Rolex used Zenith’s legendary movement due to its unique position as the first, and arguably greatest, automatic chronograph base movement.

With production numbers for. . .
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Highly coveted and exceptionally rare, this Rolex Daytona Cosmograph "El Primero" is a masterpiece of horology and one of the most significant timepieces currently available. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, this automatic chronograph is powered by the legendary Zenith El Primero movement—Rolex's first self-winding chronograph caliber. Between 1988 and 2000, Rolex used Zenith’s legendary movement due to its unique position as the first, and arguably greatest, automatic chronograph base movement.

With production numbers for these Zenith-powered Daytona watches already limited, this example stands apart as one of the rarest of all—a factory gem-set edition featuring a dazzling diamond-paved dial with applied ruby hour markers. While Rolex does not release production numbers, the production run of this gem-set el Primero-powered model is certainly in the high single digits to low mid-teens.

This watch remains in pristine, unworn condition, with its original factory tape intact. The Oyster bracelet, crafted in solid 18K gold, showcases Rolex’s signature matte-finished outer links and polished inner links, protected by the original factory tape. The case is fitted with the signature screw-down crown and pushers, ensuring water resistance, while the "400 Units per Hour" graduated bezel features a tachymeter scale for precision timekeeping. The dial layout features a 30-minute subdial at 3 o’clock, a running seconds subdial at 9 o’clock and a 12-hour subdial at 6 o’clock.

This extraordinary Daytona chronograph is accompanied by its complete original set, including the correct inner and outer Rolex boxes, the leather wallet, the original guarantee dated April 1994 with the correct serial numbers, the warranty dated April 1994 with dealer stamp Knobloch (Germany), a service warranty dated June 5, 2023, the original polishing cloth, all original booklets, and two Rolex tags, including the price tag and hang tag. A true collector’s treasure, this reference embodies the pinnacle of Rolex’s craftsmanship and exclusivity.

Created in 1963, the Rolex Daytona Cosmograph was inspired by the Daytona 500 and remains one of the most iconic watches from one of the most iconic brands, and this unworn factory gem-set yellow gold model with a Zenith El Primero movement is among the most exceptional.

Circa 1991

Case: 40mm

Ref. 16528

Signed "Rolex"
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Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero
Maker: Rolex
Period: 20th Century
Origin: Switzerland
Type: Wristwatches
Style: Modern
Stones: Diamonds;Ruby
Rolex Gem-Set Daytona El Primero
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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

-Bill Rau, Third-Generation Owner

Fine Art

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private. . .

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.

Jewelry

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

Antiques

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.