Rolex

The precise debut year of the first true Rolex Cosmograph remains a subject of debate, though most evidence points to 1963. An advertisement from that year refers to the model as the Le Mans—predating the now-legendary Daytona name. This moment marks a defining shift in Rolex history, when the chronograph evolved from a conventional wristwatch into a true tool for timing and performance. The decision to move the tachymeter scale from the dial to the bezel enhanced both legibility and purpose, establishing a design that would become one of the most recognizable in watchmaking.

By the early 1970s, Rolex introduced two transitional references—the 6262 and 6264—each housing the improved Valjoux-based calibre 727. The reference 6262 succeeded the 6239, retaining its steel bezel and pump pushers, while the “Daytona” signature found a permanent home above the 6 o’clock sub-dial. The reference 6262 was produced for only about a year, between 1969 and 1970, making it one of the rarest manually wound Daytona references.