Rolex
1978 Rolex Daytona (Ref. 6265) Black "Big Red"
The Rolex Daytona Ref 6265 AKA the “Big Red” is arguably one of the most sought-after vintage Rolex Daytona's in the Rolex Cosmograph line up. The ref 6265 "Big Red" is iconic, timeless, & eye-catching when worn on the wrist.
First introduced in 1963 the Rolex Daytona has always been in demand. Designed with professional racecar drivers in mind, the Daytona’s precision chronograph and tachymeter bezel allowed drivers to accurately measure speeds up to 400 kilometers or miles per hour. The release of the Daytona came just after Rolex had become the official timekeeper of the Daytona racetrack and the name evolved as a way for the brand to highlight their connection to the celebrated race.
The “Big Red” Daytona Ref. 6265 is downright stunning. The black dial with the offset creamy white subdials sets the tone for the watch’s appearance. The watch really pops due to the white sub-dials on the black dial and iconic red “Daytona” insignia adorned above the lower center subdial at the 6 o'clock position. The stainless steel bezel is in wonderful and almost perfect condition and frames the dial perfectly.
We love the vintage Cosmograph range 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 # | RLXDT6265-78-2 | |
Brand | Rolex | |
Style | Daytona | |
Model | 6265 | |
Serial | 55XXXXX | |
Size | Men's | |
Material | Stainless Steel | |
Dial | Black "Big Red" | |
Millimeters | 36 | |
Strap | Rolex Oyster 78350 with 571 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent case remains sharp, showing thick and even lugs. The original stainless steel UPH bezel is original to the watch and also remains in excellent overall condition. The Rolex signed trip-lock crown and Mk. 2 screw-down pushers remain original to the watch. The Rolex Oyster 78350 bracelet with 571 end pieces has light stretch and comes with 12 original links. The inside caseback strike shows 6263 which is common for 6265 Daytona's of this era, additionally the case back does show an old red RNY (Rolex N.Y.) service interval.
DIAL & HANDS
The excellent black "Big Red" Daytona dial with silver sub-dials remains in exceptional condition. The subdials have taken on a nice ivory-like patina. The trapezoidal stick markers are free of any corrosion and add to the specific examples charming and era-specific look and feel. The lume plots have taken on a nice creamy patina which also matches the original tritium filled hands. The lume dots remain intact but the 3,6, and 9 o'clock dots do show some degradation which is typical for Daytona dials in the 4 digit reference range. Additionally, the minute hand shows a slight lume loss
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is running at COSC spec, previous service history is unknown.