Rolex
1978 Rolex Daytona (Ref. 6265) Black "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 # | RLXDT6265-78/4 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Daytona | |
| Model | 6265 | |
| Serial | 55XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Floating Big Red | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 78350 Oyster Bracelet W/ 571 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The remarkably well-preserved, thick case displays crisp edges and original factory finishing, with no notable signs of previous polishing and only honest wear throughout. The stainless steel “UPH” bezel remains in excellent condition, showing light use and minor loss to the black enamel inlay. The Mk II screw-down pushers are original to the watch. The inside of the case back is stamped “6265". The era-correct Rolex 78350 folded-link Oyster bracelet with 571 end pieces is believe to be original to the watch and retains 12 links that show light stretch and wear, and will fit up to a 7.25-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original matte black "Floating Big Red" dial remains in wonderful vintage condition, exhibiting elements of minor aging to the dial itself and some darkening and light wear within the silver sub-dials. The tritium lume plots have developed a dark patina, and all remain at least partially intact, though degradation is most notably present in the 3, 6, and 9 plots, which is very common for Daytonas from this era. The original tritium hands have aged slightly lighter then the dial lume, featuring a dark beige patina, and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.