Rolex’s Cosmograph Daytona reference 6263 was in production, along with its sibling metal-bezel reference 6265, since the late 1960s until 1987. The final evolution of the manually-wound Daytona line, the model is considered by many to be the most representative and iconic of the Cosmograph collection, incorporating all the details which made the Daytona a masterpiece of design: bezel with black insert bearing a tachymeter scale, screw-down pushers, and the unmistakable Rolex Oyster case.

The present example from 1971 is a rare and early variant, with an elegant and attractive "Sigma’" dial. The "T Swiss T" signature at 6 o'clock is flanked by the Greek symbol Sigma, denoting the markers and hands are made of white gold. Research indicates the "Sigma" notation appeared on Rolex dials in the early 1970s, following the issue of a set of guidelines by APRIOR (Association pour la promotion industrielle de l’or: Association for the industrial promotion of gold). Such guidelines indeed suggested (but it was not compulsory, hence not all dials with gold bear the sigma) to add the Greek letter sigma to the dial of watches bearing gold details (such as the markers, in this case). Possibly due to the cryptic nature of this designation, it was abandoned after a few years.

In overall outstanding condition with a crisp case and well-preserved dial, the present Daytona with sigma dial is offered with both its guarantee and original sales invoice dated 3 July 1976. Originally sold by Orologeria Luigi Verga, Milano, the watch is further accompanied by its presentation box, and is a top-quality example with black dial and silver sub dials, which contrast perfectly with the outer black bezel insert.