Cosmograph Daytona Big Red

ROLEX, COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA « BIG RED » , REF. 6263, WITH FITTED BOX

ICONEEK price: SOLD

Iconeek is proud to introduce here a highly attractive and rare Rolex sports chronograph wristwatch, from 1977, a Ref. 6263 Cosmograph Daytona with « Big Red » logo.

Ref. 6263 and Ref. 6265 were both launched in 1969. Replacing its previous references, the new models Ref. 6263 and Ref. 6265 features several upgrades. Most notably, both new references are now fitted with screw-down chronographic pushers to enhance the waterproof capabilities and robustness of the timepiece. While both references were practically the same with just the difference of the bezel, one metallic (6265) and one with a black insert (6263), both new models are powered by the upgraded caliber 727, certified chronometer, beating at 21’600 alternations per hour. Later examples of the reference further featured an Oyster Triplock 700 crown, such as the present watch, in order to improve the water-resistancy till 100 meters.

The present example ref. 6263 with a black dial bearing a  5 million serial from circa 1977 is offered in attractive overall condition and is accompanied by its original Rolex fitted presentation box. Nicknamed the “Big Red” due to its big and vibrant “DAYTONA” inscription above the 12-Hour register, the present timepiece has gained an iconic status, due to the fact that Paul Newman himself, was wearing the same model.

Under the hesalite crystal, we find the great two-tone, black dial with applied steel Baton indexes, outer minute and 1/5th second white division, three subsidiary silvered guilloche dials for the constant second at 9, the 30-minute register at 3, the 12-hour register at 6. Above the 12-hour register, the bolt « Daytona » signature in red and below the register the signature « T SWISS T ». The sub registers, as well as the luminous dots, have nicely and naturally patinated over time, giving even more character to this nice watch.

Under the screwed case back, the model is powered by a caliber 727, mechanical, rhodium-plated, hand wound, 17 jewels, straight line lever escapement,  self-compensating Breguet balance spring, monometallic balance with microstella screws, shock absorbers, column-wheel chronograph mecanism, . The Movement is engraved « 6171 » next to the balance.  The movement is signed with the correct gilt 5 lines signature on the chronograph bridge. The case back is engraved inside with the reference 6263 and C.R.S for C.R Spillman & Cie, the case maker.

One of the most popular and best known designs in the Daytona’s history, A collector!!

Condition: 9/10, in extremely good overall and clean condition.