6240, Daytona, Steel

The 6240 is the origin of all screw-down Daytonas. Two years after the first Daytona, Rolex decided it needed a 100m Oyster case option. Production numbers of the 6240 were exceedingly small at fewer than 2000 examples, all in steel. While rare, It is arguably one of the most pivotal references within the line, its combination of screw down pushers with black acrylic bezel have become features widely adopted within later Daytona references. The 6240 is therefore unique, its progressive features create a clear tie to the modern references, it is immediately recognizeable, while its styling and proportions evoque 1960’s racing nostalgia. 

The 6240 is the origin of all screw-down Daytonas. Two years after the first Daytona , Rolex decided it needed a 100m Oyster case option in 1965. Some advertise this fact with Oyster on the dial but some, speculated to be earlier variants, are without Oyster text. Production numbers of the 6240 were exceedingly small during its 4 year run at fewer than 2000 examples – for comparison it is estimated that 6239 production was around 14000. While the 6241 was the first Daytona with black acrylic bezel, the 6240’s combination of screw down pushers and acrylic bezel have together become a pillar of modern Daytona. The 6240 features traits of both early and experimental production in small numbers, a unique proposition that has a charm entirely its own—a foundational Daytona reference. 

Two dials are broadly accepted as correct for the 6240: ‘Large Daytona’ and this ‘Small Daytona’. Most tend to accept that the Rolex-only ‘Solo’ Dials are correct as well, though this is more contentious. A proper 6240 always has two features: a Mk1 bezel and ‘Millerighe’ pushers. Italian for ‘thousand-line’, these are a very early nickel-plated brass pusher only seen in early screw-down pusher Daytonas. The 6240 is the sole 4-digit Daytona reference offering its 37.5mm case in steel only, a decision well suited to the sporty addition of screw down pushers. Though some may characterise the reference as a transitional reference for the screw-down options offered later, in the 6263/5, it was produced for 4 years until 1969. The 6240 features the same modified manual Valjoux 72 movement housed within its contemporaries, the 6239 and 6240.

This particular 6240 features small Daytona dial text with ‘T Swiss T’ signature, a configuration that will find no argument as will the ‘Solo’ dial. Its serial number dates production to 1966 while papers show an original sale in Argentina in 1968. The ‘Millerighe’ pushers, along with its case, are in excellent, almost timeless condition, where its age is shown through some light dial patina. It sports a Mk1 bezel in fantastic condition and oyster bracelet.

The 6240 was a meaningful step forward for the Daytona. Its screw down pushers not only lend themselves to a sporting feel but have become a feature synonymous with the modern line. This example, incredibly well preserved, offers a clear connection between the vintage character and charm of a vintage Daytona with the widely adored modern models. It is arguably one of the most pivotal references within the line, defining design language that has become widely adored within later Daytona. The 6240 is distinct within the evolution of Daytona. It is immediately recognizable by its finely-lined pushers, though the overall styling and proportions evoke 1960’s motorsport.

This 6240 presents in excellent overall condition. The case and original "Millerighe' pushers are in excellent conditions with sharp edges and full geometry. The Mk1 bezel shows no signs of bubbling or cracking. The original tritium has aged to a lovely orange-yellow tone, matching in both lume plots and hands under regular and UV light. The dial features some light patina and the acrylic crystal has some light scratches. The calibre 722 is running well within spec on our timing equipment with the chronograph functioning as expected.

This example is modelled on an average-sized 7-inch wrist.