874
Rolex
Ref. 6263
Cosmograph Daytona “Big Red”
A well-preserved and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet and presentation box
Full-Cataloguing
- Silvered dial “Big Red” ref. 6263 is one of the most sought-after variations of manual-wound Daytona
- Dial has aged to an attractive creamy hue
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is undeniably an iconic timepiece that has etched its name into the annals of horology. Since its debut in 1963, Rolex has continually refined both the aesthetics and reliability of this collection. Beginning with the original features of a steel bezel, pump pushers and caliber 72, the collection has evolved, culminating in the reference 6263.
The reference 6263 incorporates screw-down pushers, which not only enhance the waterproof capabilities of the "Oyster" case but also increase the watch's durability, making it suitable for professional use. The upgrade to an acrylic bezel adds scratch resistance and provides a striking contrast against the silvered dial. A standout feature of this timepiece is the sought-after "Big Red" Daytona print at the 6 o'clock position, a detail that remains highly desirable in modern Daytonas.
This specific example, made circa 1978, is one of the early “Big Red” models. Among vintage Daytonas, the silvered dial version of the 6263 is regarded as one of the most aesthetically balanced configurations. Additionally, the condition of the dial enhances its collectability, exhibiting a consistent aging that has yielded a pleasing creamy hue, making it a highly sought-after piece for vintage watch enthusiasts.
Rolex
Swiss | 1905Founded 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.