63 Rolex A highly attractive and very rare, Daytona, chronograph wristwatch in steel, with “big red” black dial, reference 6263

Estimate: CHF 40,000 –⁠ 80,000

A reference point for Daytona collectors, the 6263 is the last version of the Rolex Daytona and is one of the most desirable vintage Daytona models. The reference 6263, introduced in the early 1970s, stands out for its use of screw-down pushers, which significantly improved water resistance, solidifying its reputation as a robust and reliable tool watch. Encased in a 37mm stainless steel Oyster case with an Oyster steel bracelet, this model is instantly recognizable due to its striking black bezel, with a tachymeter scale for measuring speed, an essential feature for racing professionals. The dial of this particular example is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a deep black background that contrasts beautifully with the three silver sub-dials. These sub-dials, positioned at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, provide essential chronograph functions: a 30-minute counter, a 12-hour totalizer, and a running seconds display. The white printed Rolex logo and "Oyster Cosmograph" inscription add a refined touch, while the applied hour markers and luminous plots ensure legibility in various lighting conditions. However, the true signature of this watch is the bold red "Daytona" inscription above the lower sub-dial, a characteristic that has made the "Big Red" Daytona a highly sought-after collector’s piece. Powered by the manually wound Rolex Caliber 727, derived from the Valjoux 72 but refined for greater precision and durability, this watch represents the pinnacle of vintage Daytona engineering.