A symbol of both Rolex’s history as well as the wider watch industry as a whole, the Daytona is an incredibly import icon. Albeit not quite a “Paul Newman”, this isn’t to say that this 6263 isn’t special, and if anything, many are beginning to appreciate the non-Paul Newman dial vintage Daytonas even more than the unicorn watches due to their affordability and value for money. At the end of the production period of the 6262/4, Rolex introduced their new and improved models being the 6263 and the 6265, featuring screw-down pushers - a feature which both improved the water resistance of the watch as a whole as well as aesthetically showcasing a shape which is synonymous with Daytona models ever since. From 1979, our gorgeous silver tritium dial (with creamy lime plots) variant displays a very attractive aesthetic due to the contrasting matt black sunken engine turned subsidiary dials against the light dial, as well as the matching black bakelite bezel. Known quite simply as “Big Red” Daytonas amongst collectors, the floating, prominent and very red “DAYTONA” introduction to the dial within these references is still a feature we see in the modern Daytonas of today, even up to the 116500LN. The watch was serviced by Rolex in 2010, giving the entire movement an overhaul and replacing the the hands and the pushers. The bracelet code (with folding clasp stamped 78350-G and 571 end pieces) indicates that the bracelet is three years newer than the watch itself.

Condition Report:

Featuring sharp and thick lugs, the overall condition of the case and bracelet is lovely, and it has been worn carefully since its previous owner purchased the watch from a Bonhams Auction in 2013. It comes to us as a truly remarkable set, and other than its original certificate, the watch comes with almost its entirety of accessories through its era-correct box, both its Oyster and Cosmograph Daytona booklets, both swing tags, case back sticker, year card, Bonhams receipt, and leather service pouch containing its guarantee manual and service card (dated 2010).

• Year: 1979

• Reference Number: 6263

• Material: Stainless Steel

• Size: 38mm

• Movement: Manual-Wind Calibre 727

• Waterproof: 100m

• Box Information: Original Box

• Extras: Rolex Service Papers

• Strap: Stainless Steel Bracelet