Rolex
1979 Rolex Daytona (Ref. 6263) Black Dial "Big Red"
The Rolex Daytona Ref 6263 AKA the “Big Red” is arguably one of the most sought-after vintage Rolex Daytona's in the Rolex Cosmography line up. The ref 6263 "Big Red" is iconic, timeless, & eye-catching when worn on the wrist.
The Daytona name came in 1964/1965 when Rolex decided to brand the 6263 Cosmograph reference order to appeal to the auto racing culture of the USA and was also an official sponsor of the Daytona 500 auto race held in Daytona Beach, FL.
This specific 1979 example of the “Big Red” Daytona Ref. 6263 is downright stunning matte black dial with the offset e subdials sets the tone for the watch’s appearance. The watch really pops due to the three silver sub-dials on the matte black dial accompanied by the iconic red “Daytona” insignia adorned above the lower center subdial at the 6 o'clock position. The black bezel insert is in wonderful condition and frames the dial perfectly which adds to the pieces overall legibility while being worn on the wrist.
We love the vintage Cosmograph range of due to the fact that they have a high level of contrast which is something the modern Rolex Daytona range of timepieces has lost due to the completely monochromatic look of the dials found on today modern reference range.
| Stock # | RLXDT6263-79 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Daytona | |
| Model | 6263 | |
| Serial | 6,0XX,XXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Big Red" | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Strap | Rolex Oyster 78350 W/ 571 end pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The case shows very light wear and retains very thick lugs. The screw down crown and pushers are original to the piece and correct for 1979. The bezel is in good overall condition showing some surface markings and small ding by the 120 designation located on the insert of the bezel close to the 6 o'clock position but overall remains in good and original condition showing no delamination or separation sometimes common with the 6263 reference range of bezels. The Rolex Oyster 78350 bracelet has very minimal stretch and comes with 11 links with correct 571 end pieces.
DIAL & HANDS
The excellent black "Big Red" Daytona dial with silver sub-dials is in excellent condition showing. The trapezoidal stick markers are free of any corrosion and add to the specific examples charming and era-specific look and feel. The original tritium hands match the patina and coloration of the lume plots which remain 100% fully intact and show no visible lume degradation when viewed under U.V. light
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is running at spec when placed on our timing scope but additional service history is unknown.