Rolex - The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE Geneva Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Rolex
    Year: 1973
    Reference No: 6263 inside case back stamped 6262
    Case No: 3'365'443
    Model Name: Oyster Cosmograph
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 727, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet, max length 205mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 37.5mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Rolex guarantee stamped by the retailer Luciano Franz, Udine and dated November 14, 1981, product literature, presentation box and outer packaging.
    Provenance: Rolex Daytona "Lesson One" 50 exceptional examples of the world's most celebrated chronograph wristwatch, Christie's Geneva November 10, 2013: Lot 24.

  • Provenance

    Rolex Daytona "Lesson One" 50 exceptional examples of the world's most celebrated chronograph wristwatch, Christie's Geneva November 10, 2013: Lot 24.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Rolex introduced the references 6263 and 6265 in 1969 as the successors to the first Oyster Cosmograph, the reference 6240. These upgraded tool watches came with new screw down pushers, an upgraded crown and movement - the caliber 727, and offered enhanced water resistance to 50 meters.

    Preserved in excellent condition, this reference 6263 displays a stunning dial that has changed over time from black, to a harmonious and rich chocolate brown tone, contrasting against the white graphics. It is remarkable how the dial has aged in such an even manner. Furthermore, the case is preserved in stunning condition, with sharp satin finishes on top of the lugs and crisp edges. A second-generation example, it’s fitted with original Mk 2 pushers and features a ‘three-liner’ dial displaying “Rolex Oyster Cosmograph” which is correct for the 3.36 million serial number.

    Its provenance is particularly noteworthy as the present timepiece was sold at the historical thematic sale, Daytona "Lesson One".

  • Artist Biography

    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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Ref. 6263 inside case back stamped 6262
A rare and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with chocolate "tropical" dial, bracelet, guarantee and presentation box

1973
37.5mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF80,000 - 140,000 
€71,300-125,000
$80,600-141,000

Sold for CHF125,000

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+ 41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE

Geneva Auction 11-12 May 2019