Lot #3624
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6263 Silver Big Red Rolex Atelier de Restauration Serviced
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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
Rolex Atelier de Restauration Box and Papers (2022)
Est. value range
$60,000 – $80,000
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
1987
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainess steel
Included
Watch, Rolex Atelier de Rastauration service papers, invoice, and box
Dial Color
Silver
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.
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
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 stainless steel case has some scratches and nicks on the inner and outer lug edges. The case shows signs of previous refubishment. The bezel has some surface scratches and nicks on the edge. The insert remains very clean. The dial has some small marks, and some of the lume plots are discolored. The hands have been relumed (By Rolex). The watch is fitted with a solid link Oyster bracelet in excellent, featuring 13 links (3 removable) and fitting an approximately 7 1/2" wrist. The watch comes with inner and outer boxes from Rolex Atelier de Restauration in Geneva, alongside some paperwork and a hardback book detailing all the work done on the watch in 2022.
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. Restored by Rolex's own Atelier de Restauration, this example is one of the finest we have seen in a long time.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
