Rolex

1981 Rolex Daytona (Ref. 6263) Black "Big Red" Dial

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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 24hrs of Daytona, and the rest is history. 

The Daytona saw its first major update in late 1969 when Rolex decided to bring their 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. 

Stock # RLXDT6263-81/5
Brand Rolex
Style Daytona
Model 6263 
Serial 67XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black "Big Red"
Millimeters 36
Bracelet Rolex 78350 Oyster Bracelet W/ 571 End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The impressive case retains extremely thick lugs that are symmetrical throughout and show minimal signs of use and gentle signs of polishing. The original Mk III bezel is in exceptional condition, showing only light signs of use but no degradation or cracks. The Mk III screw-down pushers are early replacements. The original Rolex 78350 Oyster bracelet with 571 end pieces retains 13 links that show minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7 3/4-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black dial is in very well-preserved vintage condition, showing nominal elements of age and no damage. The sub-dials are also in excellent condition and exhibit gentle age with some light markings, which is common to see in ref. 6263's, though the markings are very subtle. The tritium lume plots feature a dark grey patina with degradation present throughout when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and exhibit no degradation.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.