Every legend has a beginning, and the present example represents the beginning of what is unarguably one of the most legendary and well-known watch models of all times: the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona. Officially launched in Europe in 1963 (even though some examples were sold in the USA in 1962 already), there is no need to detail the evolution of a model which is still today one of the most sought-after sports watches. The present specimen, however, represents the model in its earliest incarnation, with a number of traits that are only found in these first examples which are of course enormously collectible and equally scarce, especially when offered in such unparalleled condition of preservation.

Most notably, the dial is a “Double Swiss” grené dial and grants the watch an incredible vintage vibe, only found in this early grené finish. The double Swiss designation is a rectification done by Rolex as the first Swiss is mostly covered by the case when the dial is mounted, thus prompting the company to add an additional clearly visible “Swiss” designation. Such “Double Swiss” dials can be considered the earliest “standard” dial iteration for the Daytona. The bezel as well represents the earliest iteration - MKI - found in the Cosmograph, most notably including the 275 designation, which will soon be abandoned in favour of a simple hash mark. The movement as well has something to impress the connoisseur with, as it is one of the few calibers 72B found in a Daytona. Employed at the very beginning of the production - and virtually identical to the most commonly found 722 - it is a rarity in its own and a joy for the scrupulous collector looking for the truly “first rendering” of a 6239. Furthermore, this coveted, early reference 6239 is made even more exceptional with its lovely and hardly ever seen espresso "tropical" subsidiary dials. They have aged uniformly from their standard black to an intense and dark brown tone, providing for an arresting contrast with the white dial.

Incorporating the earliest executions of all its component, the present watch is truly a scholarly piece and offered in astoundingly well-preserved condition - making it an absolute trophy for the most demanding of collectors. As an added interesting touch, the bottom of the lug has an inventory number on the back, providing interesting scholarship.