The Rolex 116520: A Timeless Icon for London’s Watch Enthusiasts

In the heart of London’s historic Hatton Garden—where watchmaking heritage meets modern luxury—one Rolex reference stands out as a true collector’s gem: the Rolex Daytona 116520. Discontinued in 2020 but never faded from fame, this 40mm chronograph isn’t just a timepiece; it’s a milestone in Rolex’s engineering legacy. For Londoners looking to buy, sell, or learn more about this iconic watch, bobstime.com brings expertise and accessibility to 32 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8DH—your trusted hub for all things Rolex.

Why the Rolex 116520 Remains a London Favorite

Launched in 2000, the 116520 marked a pivotal moment for Rolex: it was the first Daytona to house the brand’s in-house automatic chronograph movement, the Calibre 4130 . Before this, Rolex relied on modified third-party movements—but the 4130 changed the game. After five years of研发 (R&D), Rolex created a movement with 201 parts (60% fewer than its predecessor) and 12 screw types (down from 40), boosting reliability and simplifying maintenance . For London’s busy professionals and frequent travelers, this durability is non-negotiable.

The 116520’s design is equally legendary. Its 40mm 904L stainless steel case—Rolex’s signature alloy, prized for corrosion resistance and polish retention—fits seamlessly into London’s diverse dress codes: from a City boardroom to a weekend brunch in Notting Hill. The iconic black dial, paired with silver sub-dials and 18kt white gold luminous indices, offers exceptional readability, even on overcast London days . And with a 72-hour power reserve and 100-meter water resistance, it’s as functional as it is stylish.

The Calibre 4130: Engineering Excellence That Defines the 116520

What truly sets the 116520 apart is its Calibre 4130 movement—a masterpiece of Swiss watchmaking. Rolex’s innovative design solved a common chronograph problem: thickness. By repositioning the vertical clutch and using a center second wheel (with the small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock), Rolex kept the movement slim while maintaining performance . Later versions even adopted a MEMS-manufactured chronograph second wheel, which uses flexible teeth to eliminate needle jitter when starting the chronograph—proof of Rolex’s obsession with precision .

The movement also features Rolex’s Parachrom blue niobium hairspring (added in 2005), which resists shocks and temperature fluctuations—ideal for London’s unpredictable weather . With a 28,800 vibrations-per-hour frequency and Superlative Chronometer certification (ensuring daily accuracy within +2/-2 seconds), the 116520 lives up to Rolex’s reputation for uncompromising quality.

Buying or Selling the Rolex 116520 in London: Trust bobstime.com

For Londoners, the 116520 isn’t just a watch—it’s an investment. Since its discontinuation, its market value has steadily risen; while original UK retail prices hovered around £8,500, well-preserved examples now command premium resale values . Whether you’re a collector seeking to add this icon to your collection or looking to sell your Rolex for a fair price, bobstime.com online store.

At bobstime.com, we specialize in Pre-Owned authentic Rolex timepieces, including the 116520. Our team of experts conducts rigorous authentication checks—verifying the Calibre 4130 movement, 904L steel, and original dial details—to ensure you’re getting a genuine watch. For sellers, we offer transparent valuations based on London’s current market trends, with no hidden fees.

Final Thoughts: Why the 116520 Endures

The Rolex 116520 isn’t just a chronograph—it’s a symbol of Rolex’s ability to blend tradition and innovation. Its timeless design, groundbreaking movement, and proven investment value make it a perfect fit for London’s discerning watch lovers. Whether you’re strolling along the Thames or closing a deal in the City, the 116520 makes a statement that’s both elegant and understated.