6262, Cosmograph Daytona, Steel

The ref. 6262 is known as the transitional Daytona, only in production for around one year. It featured the upgraded high-beat Valjoux 727 with pump pushers, but was quickly replaced by the 6265 with Oyster pushers only. The 6262 (metal bezel) & 6264 (acrylic) were the bridge to the better-known Oyster pusher 6265 (metal) and 6263 (acrylic). More importantly, the 6262 & 6264 are the last pump pusher Daytonas ever, the final chapter and ultimate evolution of the humble simple pusher. For those who study Daytonas, they are an extremely interesting and rarely seen transitional series.

The legend of the Daytona began in the 6239. Little was it known at that time that the Daytona would become as large as Rolex itself in the collector zeitgeist. The early years of the Daytona were defined by quick evolution, constantly varying details, and classic 37mm proportions. From introduction in 1963 until this 1970s 6262, Rolex had made five new references. It is easily conceivable that a Rolex boutique of the time could simultaneously be offering a 6238, 6239, 6240, 6241, 6264, and this 6262. Because they were relative slow sellers in period, overall production of all manual Daytonas is small by Rolex standards.

While this 6262 looks almost identical to the 6239, the inaugural Daytona, it bears a more highly-strung 21600 vph calibre 727 and slightly evolved dial. In total, most estimates place total 6262 production around 9000 examples, which is less than half the estimated production 6239 which came before or 6265 which came after. The 6262 was made in a silver panda dial, reverse panda, and Paul Newmans. This silver panda dial is considerably less attention-grabbing than an acrylic bezel with red Daytona, a quiet choice of Cosmograph which still bears the Daytona name above 6 but in an extremely subtle monochromatic manner.

The 6262 is an important bridge. It represents the final chapter in all of Pre-Daytona and early Rolex chronograph evolution, handing off the baton from low-beat, pump pusher Daytona to high-beat, Oyster-only Daytona. In its day, it was seen as relatively expensive for its impractical case and simple manual calibre. Today, it is seen as relatively expensive for its extremely small production, integral role in Rolex's Daytona history, introduction of the 727, and restrained design with perfect 37mm proportions.

This 6262 presents in great vintage condition overall. The dial is beautifully clear, with no serious damage or marks visible and light honest patina. The most notable patina is to the left of the middle coronet point, all very minor and hard to see with a naked eye. All tritium is original and evenly dark cream in tone. The hands bear very little oxidation and light wear. Its case has probably seen only a very light single polish, with great overall shape and proportions very much well-preserved. The bezel is correct, graduated to 200, with light wear. Some of the numerals in the bezel are only just starting to lose the black. There is light surface wear throughout. It comes on a correct, very likely original 7835 folded Oyster bracelet. There is light wear on the bracelet consistent with the case, with one light impression on the uppermost link below the lower endlink Its calibre 727 is running well in spec on our timing equipment.

This watch is modelled on a slightly smaller than average sized 6.5 inch wrist.