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

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.

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.

This specific 1981 example of the “Big Red” Daytona Ref. 6263 is downright stunning matte black dial with the offset e subdials sets the tone for the watch’s appearance. The watch really pops due to the three silver sub-dials on the matte black dial accompanied by the 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.