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25

Rolex

Ref. Reference No. 6265, case back interior stamped 6262

Oyster Cosmograph

An exceptionally well-preserved stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with “tropical” subdials, tachymeter scale, and bracelet

Estimate
$80,000 - 160,000
$187,500
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Rolex
Year
1971
Reference No
Reference No. 6265, case back interior stamped 6262
Case No
2’851’484
Model Name
Oyster Cosmograph
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 727, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet, stamped 7835 19, end links stamped 271
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel Rolex deployant clasp, stamped 2.71
Dimensions
37mm Diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement, and clasp signed.
Catalogue Essay
Rolex’s Oyster Cosmograph Daytona is a keystone watch for any collection of tool timepieces. Since it was first introduced in 1963 with a stainless steel bezel with tachymeter scale, the reference 6239, to the modern iteration with ceramic bezel, has captivated enthusiasts and for good reason. The Daytona is a reliable tool watch with a classic clean modern flair. It is as contemporary today, as it was nearly 60 years ago. Released in the late 1960s, the reference 6265, along with its companion piece, the reference 6263 with acrylic bezel, replaced the first “Oyster” model, or those with screw down pushers, the reference 6240. The model was produced in stainless steel and yellow gold, as well as an exceptionally rare and possibly unique white gold model, and featured either standard dials or "Paul Newman" dials.

The present Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is a sight to behold. Fresh to the international market and consigned by the family of the original owner, it is a stunning, early reference 6265 that is certainly one of the most remarkable examples ever to surface. Its most exceptional and immediately visible feature is its tropical dial, featuring subsidiary dials that have naturally aged to a charismatic light brown macchiato hue.

The evenness with which the subdials have aged is truly extraordinary. The white graphics within each sub-dial are perfectly bright. Furthermore, the luminous hour markers are perfectly intact and identically match the luminous hands in color. The watch is further enhanced by the outstanding overall condition of the case, which remains sharp - unpolished with strong proportions and factory polished and brushed surfaces, as well as retaining its original MK 1 screw-down pushers. The present stainless steel model from 1971 is also fitted with its original bracelet stamped 2.71. The overall impact of this Daytona will impress any collector of vintage Rolex sports watches.

Rolex

Swiss | 1905
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.
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