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
Box, Hand Written Guarantee Papers, Additional Service Receipts, Extra 6265 Bezel
Est. value range
$60,000 – $100,000
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
1988
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box, papers, Rolex service papers and invoices, additional bezel, two additional crystals with one gasket
Dial Color
Black
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
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
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case show signs of previous polishing, with slightly soft surfaces and edges. There are some minor scratches and dings visible on the case, including a small ding on the edge of the lower right lug edge. Watch comes with its original MK3 bezel in excellent condition. Some minor wear on the metal edge, and a few marks on the surface (see 180). Original dial in very good condition. Luminous plots are intact, but the subdial surfaces show oxidation and discoloration as seen in the images. Crystal is scratched. The watch is fitted with P301 pushers, which are original for R serial late 6263/5s. The watch comes on an oyster bracelet with 13 links total, 3 of which are removable. The bracelet fits a 7 3/4" wrist. Watch is accompanied by an additional steel 6265 bezel in worn, very good condition. It is further accompanied by its original hand written guarantee certificate, as well as various service papers from Rolex and Bucherer, whit a Rolex service warranty dated 2014.
13 links. 3 removable. bracelet fits. approx. 7 3/4 inch wrist.
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
