Rolex
1978 Rolex Daytona 6263 Silver Big Red Daytona Dial
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 1978 example of the “Big Red” Daytona Ref. 6263 is downright stunning the silver dial with the offset crisp black matte subdials sets the tone for the watch’s appearance. The watch really pops due to the three black sub-dials on the silver dial and 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 # | RLXDT6263-78 | |
Brand | Rolex | |
Style | Daytona | |
Model | 6263 | |
Serial | 5,5XX,XXX | |
Size | Men's | |
Material | Stainless Steel | |
Dial | Silver | |
Millimeters | 36 | |
Strap | Oyster |
CASE & BRACELET
The case shows very light wear with and retains very thick lugs. The screw down crown and pushers are original to the piece. The bezel is in absolutely stunning condition and is without any cracks or tarnishing. The Rolex Oyster 78350 bracelet has very minimal stretch and comes with12 links with 557b end pieces.
DIAL & HANDS
The excellent silver "Big Red" Daytona dial with black sub-dials is in excellent condition showing no blemishing or marking. The trapezoidal stick markers are free of any corrosion and add to the specific examples charming and era-specific look and feel. Under U.V. light some of the lume plots have flaked from the dial which is a common occurrence for Daytona examples of this era. The original tritium hands match the patina and coloration of the lume plots.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was just completely overhauled and is running at COSC spec.