
The Hammer Collection
Reference 6263 Daytona | A yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with bracelet, Circa 1978 | The Hammer Collection
Auction Closed
December 7, 07:12 PM GMT
Estimate
100,000 - 200,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Dial: champagne
Caliber: cal. 727 mechanical, 17 jewels
Case: 18k yellow gold, screw down case back
Case number: 5'465'492
Closure: 18k yellow gold Rolex Oyster riveted bracelet with folding clasp
Size: 37.5 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 160 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
The reference 6263, and its companion the 6265, were introduced in the late 1960s as an evolution of the 6262 and 6264. They retained the option of having either an acrylic or metal bezel, but added extra water protection by having screw down pushers for the chronograph after having been successfully tested on the elusive 6240. The model, housed with a Valjoux 727 movement, continued to be offered in stainless steel and gold until 1988. They are the ultimate evolution of the manual winding Rolex Daytona.
The gold versions of the reference 6263 were the first serially produced chronographs that were officially certified with the COSC. With the certification came the addition of the 'Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified' inscription on the dial. The Reference 6263, thanks to its timeless design and the quality of its components, is rightly considered as a masterpiece of horology and a must-have in any serious collection. However, yellow gold are versions even more sought-after as they are much rarer than their steel counterpart. The contrast between the black parts and the gold creates a striking effect, providing even further charisma to the timepiece.
The present example from 1978 is offered in excellent overall condition from one of the most discerning collectors of our lifetime.