Rolex
1978 Rolex Daytona (Ref. 6263) Silver "Floating Big Red" Dial
Rolex first introduced the Cosmograph in 1963 in steel, 14k, and 18k yellow gold with a design that was solely focused on automobile racing. The Units Per Hour bezel allowed for the tracking and measuring of average speed and lap times, making for a truly useful tool for racing drivers in the 20th century. Rolex, being the same marketing powerhouse back then as they are today, knew the American market would be their most effective demographic as racing in America was on the rise in the 60s-70s. Effectively, in 1964, the Rolex Cosmograph was branded “Daytona” after the famous race, The 24 Hours of Daytona, and the rest is history.
The Daytona saw its first major update in late 1969 when Rolex decided to bring its Oyster technology to the Cosmograph. Accompanying the "Oyster" text on the dial, the case crown was upgraded to a 7mm trip-lock crown, and the most significant upgrade was the introduction of the screw-down chronograph pushers, which is a function we still see today in the modern Daytona offering from Rolex. While the case size of this new model was the same as its predecessor at 36mm, the larger crown and more robust pushers greatly increase the watch's wrist presence.
SPECS
| Stock # | RLXDT6263-78/5 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Daytona | |
| Model | 6263 | |
| Serial | 55XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Silver "Floating Big Red" | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 78350 Oyster Bracelet W/ 571 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The exceptionally thick and crisp case exhibits minimal evidence of being previously polished, with only light signs of use present. The Mk III bezel is in impressive condition, showing no cracks or signs of delamination. The Mk II screw-down pushers are original to the watch. The Rolex 78350 Oyster bracelet with 571 end pieces is a service unit from 1995 and retains 12 links that show minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7.5-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original silver sunburst "floating Bid Red" Daytona dial is in remarkably well-preserved condition, exhibiting no damage or notable age within the dial itself or the black sub-dials. The creamy patina tritium lume plots all remain fully intact when inspected under UV light, though the 3 o'clock plot is flattened, which is common for this era of Daytona. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly with no degradation present under UV light inspection.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, though the service history is unknown. A movement service and be purchased upon request.