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Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers

Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 'Big Red' - Matte Black Dial W/ Box & Papers

SOLD

The Rolex Daytona model, since its initial release, has been at the forefront of the market as the most desirable chronograph in production, and of almost any vintage. Early Daytona’s in particular can be a lot of fun to collect not just because of the recognition they have these days, but also, as with so many other Rolex models early in their life-cycles, because of how many subtle changes they underwent in the fist decade or so, resulting in a plethora of nuanced configurations.

One feature that they all shared, however, was the movement. Prior to the introduction of the automatic-winding Daytonas beginning in circa 1988, all previous Rolex chronographs had been manually-wound, and anything with "Daytona" on the dial, powered by a modified version of Valjoux's highly respected and now very desirable, Calibre 72.

The piece that we have here, a Reference 6263, is known to collectors as a ‘Big Red.' Why? Well, the ‘Daytona’ text on the dial in rendered in red. And that's it.

Dating to circa 1980, this example comes to us in excellent, honest overall condition. The 37mm case shows signs of having been very lightly, yet tastefully previously polished, retaining correct proportions and finishing where appropriate. The correct bezel assembly houses a correct 'MK3' black acrylic insert, both of which show normal signs of wear that matches the case. The screw-down pushers are correct 'MK3' units and of course have a screw-down crown between them. Inside, the 'reverse-panda' dial within is exceptional, with a clean matte black surface and nearly flawless silver subsidiary registers, lending to that highly desirable and legible contrast that we love. The Tritium plots exhibit a light and even patina throughout, with only partial loss at the 3 o'clock position, and a beautifully matching handset. Last but not least, this piece comes fitted to a period-correct Oyster bracelet with a signed blade clasp.

It would be enough to enjoy this piece on its own, but accompanying the watch is its inner and outer boxes and punched papers dated 8/31/1981.

Its hard to say more said about vintage Daytonas that hasn't already been said over and over... They are highly collectible, beautiful to behold, and of course, functional and robust watches to wear. This is an excellent, well-rounded example and we're certain its next owner will agree.

Stainless Steel 1980 Box & Papers Automatic 37mm
Condition Report & Details

Condition:

Case: Very lightly previously polished, retaining correct factory proportions and finishing. Shows normal signs of wear throughout with a few scuffs on the left case profile. Correct 'MK3' screw-down pushers. Screw-down crown.

Bezel: Correct assembly has a few impressions on the left side and otherwise shows normal wear. Correct 'MK3' black acrylic insert shows normal wear with no fractures.

Dial: Exceptional overall, with a clean matte surface and no notable wear or damage. The contrasting silver 'concentric' subsidiary registers are also excellent, showing just faint wear within the 3:00 register visible under magnification. The Tritium plots exhibit a light and even patina throughout with only partial loss at the 3:00 position. The handset matches nicely to the naked eye and under UV inspection.

Movement:

Modified Valjoux 72 manual-winding caliber by Rolex (Cal. 727).

Bracelet/Strap:

Rolex stainless steel Oyster bracelet with 10 links and signed blade clasp stamped 'H.' Lightly previously polished, showing light wear throughout with virtually no stretch. Sized for ≈7.25" wrist.

"As collectors themselves, Oliver and Clarke are on a mission to make buying vintage watches as painless as possible."

"The company focuses on good prices for its pieces, elite customer service and full transparency."

"The appointment-only space is inviting, with comfortable seating areas and exposed brick walls."

From Rolex & Patek Philippe, to Cartier & Audemars Piguet. As collectors first, we love the small details that separate the Submariner from Daytona and Calatrava from Royal Oak. This is why you'll find our curated assortment spans decades of generations of models and brands. We believe that watches don't just tell time, they tell history - and life is too short to wear a boring watch.

Oliver & Clarke