The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is undeniably an iconic timepiece that has secured its place in the history books of horology. Since its initial release in 1963, Rolex has consistently enhanced both the aesthetics and reliability of the collection. Starting with the original steel bezel, pump pushers, and caliber 722, the collection has evolved and culminated in the reference 6263.
The reference 6263 features screw down pushers, which not only enhance the waterproofness of the "Oyster" case but also make the watch more durable and suitable for professional use. Additionally, the upgrade to an acrylic bezel provides improved scratch resistance and offers a striking contrast against the silvered dial. One notable characteristic of this timepiece is the coveted "big red" Daytona print located at 6 o'clock, a feature that has continued to be sought-after in modern Daytonas.
This particular example was manufactured circa 1986, near the end of its production before Rolex transitioned to exclusively using automatic movements in the collection. Among the vintage Daytonas, the silvered dial 6263 is considered one of the most well-balanced configurations. Furthermore, the condition of this watch adds to its collectability, making it a highly desirable piece for vintage watch enthusiasts.
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.