Non-Sigma 6263 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

Today we’re getting a little nerdy within steel sport Rolex. 6263s can be found in a wide range of configurations, even for an early sport Rolex reference. Of those that don’t have Daytona in above above the 6 o’clock subdial, most are what are called ‘sigma’ dials. Sigmas either side of Swiss Made indicate precious metal use in the indices and hands. This dial, with its T-SWISS-T, is a slightly rarer bird. Most collectors don’t actually have a preference between the two, but the quality of this example makes it worth featuring in either guise.

I know this is a predicatably popular chronograph, but (with the surge in demand of the last few years) great non-franken 6263s are few and far between. This was the start of screw-down pushers, Valjoux 72, and acrylic (mark 1 here) bezel. The timeless design of the early Cosmographs has proven itself a success unquestionably. The question a buyer must ask themselves is which reference and variation most suits their collection or personality. This 6263’s lack of a big red Daytona at 6 introduces a small hint to stealth to what is possibly the most recognizable watch on the face of the Earth. I’m fan of that.

Condition is quite strong here. The bezel is very well-preserved, a quite rare thing. Its case appears to have seen a very light polish, judging by the radius on its lugs. You’d really have to spend some time with it to observe that though, it’s nothing abhorrent. The dial is just exceptional, with original lume aged to a perfect pumpkin, matched in its handset. There is no mention of service history but nothing looks rough in its movement from a quick once-over. The watch comes with a generic box and no papers from a well-regarded retailer.

Find this 6263 here from Watches London for 75000 GBP.