Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6262 Exotic White Dial, 1971

Dealer description — Bulang & Sons

One of the most iconic wristwatch models in history is the Rolex Daytona. It occupies an ultra-rare status among vintage Rolex collectors, often regarded as the ultimate grail. The entire line of 4-digit Daytona references is celebrated for their rarity, beauty, and collectibility, with a particular dial layout known as the “grail”- the so-called exotic dials ! Many enthusiasts are already familiar with the story of the Daytona. Originally introduced under the name Cosmograph “Le Mans,” it was later renamed “Daytona” after the famous racetrack in Florida. Initially, the model did not experience overwhelming popularity; it was a unpopular watch with worldwide modest interest. To boost its appeal and capture the aesthetic of the era across multiple model lines, Rolex commissioned their dial manufacturer, Singer, to develop a design study for potential new dials. These early variations, featured in Singer catalogs, included the first prototypes for the “Exotic” dials, bolder, with a 1960s vibe, vivid colors, Art Deco fonts, and more intriguing details. At the time of their release in the 1960s, these dials were considered quirky and not highly sought after compared to other Rolex models. However, several key factors eventually contributed to their rise in popularity… This specific one is a rare reference 6262 and represents the second generation of the Daytona to feature the coveted 'Exotic' dial, and it was produced for just a single year—between ca 1970 and 1971. While it may appear nearly identical to its predecessor on the outside, several notable changes were made internally. Most significantly, it houses the upgraded Valjoux 727 movement. Unlike the earlier Ref. 6239, which used the Valjoux 722 ticking at 18,000 vibrations per hour, the 727 operates at a faster rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour, offering improved precision and performance. The case is in great condition , with a lovely steel”unites per hour “ bezel , pump style pushers and a nice Oyster riveted expandable bracelet ref 6635 fitted, with end links marked ‘57’ and a clasp stamped 2.68 . The eggshell like white “exotic” dial is in lovely condition with yellow colour lume , and a contrasting black hour track .The hands are later to the watch as they feature luminova lume. This lovelyDaytona has been fully serviced by our watch maker. These watches are every collectors “chase “ and side effects include staring at your wrist for unreasonable lengths of time , get in touch with us ! Specifications Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6262 36mm steel case with plexi glass Serial 262xxxx dating to 1971 “Pump “pushers White “Exotic” step-dial in with black accents and prints Steel tachymeter “units per hour “bezel Rolex riveted Oyster bracelet ref 6635 with end links 57 Manual wound cal. 727 based on a valjoux 72 caliber Fully serviced by our watchmaker Fully insured delivery