Rolex

The Rolex Daytona's evolution is vividly showcased by the reference 6265 and 6263. Debuting in 1969, reference 6263 maintains the enduring acrylic tachymeter bezel, a hallmark reminiscent of the earlier 6241 model and further embraces technological advancements with screw-down waterproof pushers and crown, a departure from the previous pump chronograph pushers featured on the reference 6239 and 6241.

Beneath the surface, the 6263 houses the renowned Valjoux 727 movement, an evolution of the calibre 722 that powered the earlier pump-pusher models. Rolex heightened its precision by replacing the balance, which elevated the beat rate from 18,000 to 21,000 per hour. This was the most technically advanced manually wound chronograph movement to ever be used by Rolex, and it was to be the last ever before the switch was made to an automatic calibre in the successive model.

It is important to note that this watch was sent to the Rolex Atelier de Restauration in May of 2024, where it received a complete overhaul and brought back to its former glory, to great detail and cost. The movement received a full and extensive restoration, so prospective owners can be assured that they are purchasing one of the best running vintage Daytonas on the market. Crucially, the dial and hands received no intervention during this process, which suggests that the present service dial was fitted to the watch much earlier.

Accompanied by the full Atelier de Restauration set, the present 6263 is imbued with the history of one of Rolex’s most coveted model lines, and represents the peak of manually wound Rolex chronographs. This example, officially serviced by Rolex in 2024, gives collectors the chance to interact with and experience a factory fresh reference 6263.