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Lot Essay
Purchased by the present owner in the mid-1970s, this ref. 6263 is an extremely attractive example of the celebrated model, distinguished by its “tropical” subsidiary dials. Over time, the colour has changed from black to brown, varying under certain lights from dark chocolate to tobacco. Called “tropical”, this process occurs in rare instances and fundamentally alters the aesthetic and collectible appeal of a timepiece.
The present ref. 6263 has evidently always been handled with care, demonstrated by the full case. The original, highly coveted MK I bezel, often changed during servicing due to its fragile nature, is still present. The folded Rolex Oyster bracelet is stamped 3.70, indicating a production in the third quarter of 1970, coinciding the production year of the watch.
Also correct for the reference is the case back, stamped 6262, an interesting feature of many references 6263 watches yet again underlining the already well-known assumption that Rolex were using case backs from other Cosmograph references during assembly.
The charismatic dial combined with the fresh to the market provenance and excellent overall condition render this watch a superb trophy for the collector of rare timepieces.
Reference 6263
Over the years, reference 6263 has become one of the most sought-after Rolex models. Introduced in 1969 as the sister reference of the 6265, it replaced the first Oyster chronograph, reference 6240. Fitted with the upgraded caliber 727 as well as screw down pushers enhancing its waterproof abilities, it bears the “Oyster” designation on the upper-half of its dial and differed from the 6265 through its black bezel graduated to 200 units. The defining feature of the reference is undeniably the presence of the screw down pushers, which make the entire watch look larger, more sporting and masculine.
A similar example, named “Terra di Sienna”, is illustrated and described in Ultimate Rolex Daytona, Pucci Papaleo, pp. 380-383.
The present ref. 6263 has evidently always been handled with care, demonstrated by the full case. The original, highly coveted MK I bezel, often changed during servicing due to its fragile nature, is still present. The folded Rolex Oyster bracelet is stamped 3.70, indicating a production in the third quarter of 1970, coinciding the production year of the watch.
Also correct for the reference is the case back, stamped 6262, an interesting feature of many references 6263 watches yet again underlining the already well-known assumption that Rolex were using case backs from other Cosmograph references during assembly.
The charismatic dial combined with the fresh to the market provenance and excellent overall condition render this watch a superb trophy for the collector of rare timepieces.
Reference 6263
Over the years, reference 6263 has become one of the most sought-after Rolex models. Introduced in 1969 as the sister reference of the 6265, it replaced the first Oyster chronograph, reference 6240. Fitted with the upgraded caliber 727 as well as screw down pushers enhancing its waterproof abilities, it bears the “Oyster” designation on the upper-half of its dial and differed from the 6265 through its black bezel graduated to 200 units. The defining feature of the reference is undeniably the presence of the screw down pushers, which make the entire watch look larger, more sporting and masculine.
A similar example, named “Terra di Sienna”, is illustrated and described in Ultimate Rolex Daytona, Pucci Papaleo, pp. 380-383.