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
Watch Only
Est. value range
$40,000 – $60,000
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
1974
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Known as the "Sigma" dial Daytona, this ref. 6263's black dial lacks any Daytona inscription above its 12-hour chronograph register and features the Greek letter Sigma on either side of its "T SWISS T" inscription at 6 o'clock, which signal the use of 18kt white gold for its hands and applied indices. The decisition to do this was led by a Swiss watch industry trade association, called l’Association pour la Promotion Industrielle de l'Or (APRIOR) to highlight the value of Swiss watches that used gold in their 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 generation of Cerachrom-clad Daytona that debuted in 2016 and was iterated upon in 2023.
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 is well defined, with some light scratches across the surface, as expected of a watch of this vintage. There are three more noticeable nicks on the back edge of the upper left lug, and the case back has light scratches. The bezel is excellent, with some light marks and minor delamination in a couple of places. The lower (reset) pusher is a later service replacement. The black Sigma dial is near mint, with excellent lume plots that are fully intact. The hands are clean, with some discoloration in the lume. The watch is fitted with a steel rivet link Oyster bracelet with light surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet currently fits a 7 1/2” wrist, and is fitted with 12 links.
Our Perspective
One of the most universally beloved vintage Daytona variants out there, the ref. 6263 showcases the very best of Rolex's timeless designs through its ability to remain so relevant to this day.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
