1/20
Lot #3878

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6263 Black Big Red Dial Box and Punched Papers

How do I bid? Start here

Introduction

Sitting within the pantheon of greats, the Rolex Daytona is a legendary watch that every watch lover can admire. With its long history, a lengthy list of famous wearers, and an array of intricacies, the Daytona has become the most sought-after timepiece the Genevan Giants have offered. Releasing the first generation Daytona in 1963, this legendary watch was made famous by the iconic actor and racecar driver Paul Newman following some years of obscurity. Among the long list of Daytona references we have today, the first generation four-digit references are the most desirable, with the ref. 6263 we have here residing as one of the best-known. Released in 1971 and produced until 1988 alongside the ref. 6265, the ref. 6263 was the last of the manually wound Daytona references to be equipped with a Valjoux movement. One of the last four-digit references to be produced, the ref. 6263 has all of the desirable traits that vintage Daytona collectors look for. Featuring screw-down chronograph pushers that modernize its aesthetic with a screw-down caseback and a black acrylic bezel insert, the ref. 6263 merges the modern Cerachrom bezel Daytona with a rich vintage aesthetic to create a timepiece that delights those who wear it.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Inner Bufkor Box, Punched Certificate, Spare Original Bezel

Est. value range

$60,000 – $10,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

37.5mm x 13mm

Model

Daytona

Movement

Manual-wind Valjoux cal. 727

Reference

6263

Bracelet

Stainless steel Oyster bracelet

Year

1984

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch, box, and papers

Dial Color

Black

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Famed as one of the most desirable Daytona variants, the ref. 6263 Big Red is nicknamed after the "Big Red" Daytona inscription above its 12-hour chronograph register. This particular example has a gorgeous dial with perfect domed luminous dots.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Forming the foundation of its sporty looks, the Daytona ref. 6263 features a black acrylic bezel insert and screw-down chronograph pushers that significantly modernizes its aesthetic. Considering its black bezel, it is not hard to see how Rolex's modern design department was inspired to release the current Cerachrom-clad Daytona that debuted in 2016.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case has light scratches commensurate with its age and shows signs of having been repolished at some point. The case back has light scratches. The service bezel is generally excellent with a small patch of delamination visible near '60', as well as some other minor visible wear. Watch is fitted with P302 pushers. The dial is in excellent condition, with damaged lume plots at three and nine and some light marks on the white sub dials. The hands have some light scratches and oxidation in places. The solid link Oyster bracelet is in very good condition, with surface scratches, wear to the coronet on the clasp, and moderate play between the links. The bracelet with 571 endpieces currently fits a 7 1/4" wrist and has 12 links, 3 of which are removable. Comes with inner Bufkor box, punched papers and spare original bezel with some delamination and damage.

Our Perspective

One of the most universally beloved vintage Daytona variants out there, the Big Red's signature Daytona inscription serves as a wonderful reminder of just how much larger than life this iconic timepiece has become.

Eric Ku

Co-founder