
Daytona 'Big Red', Reference 6265 | A stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet | Circa 1979
Auction Closed
November 10, 01:01 PM GMT
Estimate
60,000 - 120,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: silvered
Calibre: cal. 727 manual winding, 17 jewels
Case: stainless steel, screw-down case back
Case number: 6'223'594
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 37 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 195 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: yes
Accessories: Rolex Guarantee, Oyster booklet, document holder and presentation case
In 1971, Rolex refreshed their chronograph range with a series of upgrades which modernised the design and made the watch much more suitable for its intended use in sports. Famously, the Daytona line started out as a commercial failure, and subsequent efforts by the brand as well as popular culture influences really helped to propel four digit Daytona models into the stardom in which they exist today.
A fuller and thicker Oyster case, screw-down pushers and larger Oyster crown, as well as an improved movement all contributed to making the new reference 6263/65 a watch that was meant to last, and indeed today these watches are more popular and relevant than perhaps they ever were.
The present watch is presented in attractive condition and features the instantly recognisable and desirable silvered 'Big Red' dial. These dials are not only eye-catching and sporty, but also help to differentiate original dials from service dials, which feature a much smaller Daytona script which is also known as the 'Little Red'. This lot presents collectors with the opportunity to own an icon of vintage Rolex collecting and one of the most coveted Daytona configurations on the market.