Rolex Daytona ‘White APH Dial’ – Reference 116520 (2004)

Heritage Narrative

Few watches command the reverence of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona—a model born on the racetrack in 1963 and elevated into legend by its blend of mechanical mastery and enduring design. The reference 116520 marked the first in-house chronograph movement from Rolex, introducing the calibre 4130 and setting a new benchmark for reliability and precision.

This 2004 example stands out as one of the most collectible iterations of the stainless-steel Daytona thanks to its “APH” dial—a subtle spacing anomaly in the “COSMOGRAPH” text that has become a hallmark among collectors. The crisp white dial, luminous index markers, and silver subdials deliver exceptional contrast and legibility, encapsulating the pure essence of the modern Daytona.

Offered in excellent condition and complete with box, booklet, and tag, this piece remains one of the most desirable expressions of Rolex’s sports chronograph legacy.

Technical Specifications

Reference:
116520

Year:
2004

Movement:
Rolex Calibre 4130, self-winding, perpetual, chronometer-certified; column wheel and vertical clutch; small seconds at 6 o’clock, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock

Case:
40 mm stainless steel Oyster case with screw-down Triplock crown and pushers

Bezel:
Engraved stainless steel tachymeter bezel

Crystal:
Sapphire, scratch-resistant

Dial / Hands:
White “APH” dial with luminous index hour markers and silver subdials

Bracelet / Clasp:
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet, 7¾ in length, Oysterlock safety clasp

Water resistance:
100 m / 330 ft (factory rating)

Condition & Inclusions

Overall grade:
Excellent—clean surfaces, sharp case lines, minimal wear

Service status:
Running within Rolex chronometer standards

Set:
Rolex box, booklet, and tag

Shipping & Logistics

Stored off-site and shipped fully insured within 1–3 business days. Worldwide shipping available; buyer responsible for any import duties or taxes.

Shipping & Returns

Complimentary insured worldwide shipping and a 14-day return window (watch must be returned in the same condition supplied).

Every timepiece is authenticated, time-graphed, and prepared for secure transit. All shipments include a full inspection before dispatch, professional packaging, and tracking updates throughout delivery. Returns are accepted within the 14-day period for store credit or refund, subject to condition verification upon receipt.