Released in the late 1960s, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona reference 6265 was launched together with its sister reference 6263 to replace the short-lived 6240. Being the last reference launched from the manually-wound Daytona era, the reference 6265 featured a metallic bezel similar to its previous reference 6239 and 6262, while the reference 6263 featured a black bezel insert similar to reference 6240, 6241 and 6264. Evolving from its ancestors, the reference 6265 featured screw-down pushers as well as an upgraded cal. 727 beating at 21,600 vph.

Admired by many due to its vintage appeal with modernized robustness, the reference 6265 in stainless steel is superbly well designed and attractive. Featuring a friendly and well-balanced 37mm diameter oyster case, the reference was available with a matte black dial and a silver sunburst dial for stainless steel examples. With a large and bold “DAYTONA” inscription above the 6 o’clock register, the reference earned its nickname the “Big Red”.

The present example Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6265 in stainless steel from circa 1984 with an 8.6 million serial features a matte black dial. Well-preserved boasting an attractive dial with desirable luminous material that has aged consistently together with its hands, this handsome example is perfect for daily wear.