Rolex Daytona 6262

Daytona, Reference 6262 'Tropical Baby Blue' | A stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet | Circa 1970

Dial: tobacco-hued tropicalized black Calibre: cal. 727 manual winding, 17 jewels Case: stainless steel, screw down case back Case number: 2'475'511 Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp Size: 36 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 190 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Papers: no Box: yes Accessories: Rolex Atelier de Restauration booklet, travel pouch and wooden presentation case with outer packagingWhile the first Rolex Cosmograph was offered in 1963, by the late 1960s, Rolex introduced a second generation, two references, the 6262 and 6264, that would come to be “transitional” in the model’s lineage. Sitting between the 6239 and the later 6265, the 6262 is powered by the upgraded Valjoux-based calibre 727 while retaining pump pushers. In this reference, Rolex starts to consistently place the “Daytona” designation above the 6 o’clock sub-dial, now a hallmark of the model. The 6262 stands among the rarest manually wound Daytona models, produced for only about a year between 1969 and 1970. The present example offers compelling value by combining a beautifully aged and uncommon dial with a recent service by Rolex Atelier de Restauration . With a tropical and overall even tobacco tone to the dial, which began its life as a clean black, the watch presents as unmistakably vintage. The particular hue of this dial is difficult to describe, as it takes on a new life in direct sunlight. Collectors who have experienced tropical dials in the past will be impressed by the unique characteristics present here. Beyond the base tone, this particular dial variant, with a baby blue “Daytona” text, is uncommon, only observed on a small group of 6262 and 6264 examples. After a trip to the Rolex Atelier de Restauration in Geneva, the case presents as full with correctly brushed finishes to the tops of the lugs and a consistent polish to the case flanks. The luminous material in the hands as well as the dial has been reapplied, though fits the overall look of the watch. The watch presents an excellent opportunity for collectors to acquire one of the rarest steel pump-pusher Daytona executions at a compelling price point. Plus, years of worry-free wear are ahead for this watch – without concern for damage to the original luminous material.