Rolex - The Geneva Watch Auction: XVI Geneva Saturday, November 5, 2022 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Rolex
    Year: Circa 1971
    Reference No: 6262 inside caseback stamped 6239
    Case No: 2'621'434
    Model Name: Cosmograph Daytona
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 727, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet stamped "571" and "78350 19" to the endlinks, max length 190mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex deployant clasp stamped "T9 78350"
    Dimensions: 37mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1969, Rolex launched two Cosmograph references; reference 6262 with the silver bezel and reference 6264 with an acrylic bezel. Very similar to the previous generation, these two references are now considered transitional models: they feature the upgraded caliber 727, but still maintain pump pushers, which will disappear the Daytona line in 1972, with the discontinuation of these two references and the introduction of two new references with screw-down pushers, ref. 6263 & 6265.

    The present watch is astoundingly original and beautiful in so many ways. The most awe inspiring and captivating aspect of the watch is the dial. The silver soleil dial is preserved in excellent condition, and is free of tarnishing. Most striking are the subsidiary registers, which are arguably the most compelling aspect of the watch. Originally black, they have 'turned' to an even cappuccino/chestnut shade over time, even leaning into orange. It is fascinating how each register has aged in such a consistent, uniform way, that is incredibly pleasing to the eye. The luminous accents are furthermore preserved in equally excellent condition, and remains round and intact throughout.

  • 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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197

Ref. 6262 inside caseback stamped 6239
A surprising and highly collectible stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with cappuccino tropical registers and bracelet

Circa 1971
37mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

Estimate
CHF80,000 - 160,000 
€82,400-165,000
$80,100-160,000

Sold for CHF214,200

Contact Specialist

Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Watches, Continental Europe and the Middle East
+41 22 317 81 81
AGhotbi@phillips.com
 

Tiffany To
Head of Sale, Geneva
+41 22 317 96 63
TiffanyTo@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: XVI

Geneva Auction 5 - 6 November 2022