36 Rolex A highly attractive and very rare, Daytona, chronograph wristwatch in steel, with silver 'Big Red' dial, reference 6265.

Estimate: € 40,000 –⁠ 80,000

The Rolex Daytona “Big Red” is one of the most iconic variations of the legendary Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, a chronograph that has become synonymous with precision, motorsport heritage, and timeless design. Introduced in the early 1970s, the reference 6265 represents the pinnacle of the manually wound Daytona era, featuring a robust stainless steel Oyster case, screw-down pushers, and a high-beat movement that improved reliability and accuracy. This particular example, housed in a 37 mm stainless steel case with an Oyster steel bracelet, exemplifies the perfect blend of sportiness and elegance. The standout feature of this watch is its striking dial configuration, which showcases a silver sunburst background with contrasting black sub-dials. The sub-dials are carefully positioned for optimal legibility, displaying continuous seconds, a 30-minute counter, and a 12-hour totalizer, ensuring precise chronograph functionality. However, the defining characteristic of this reference is the bold red “Daytona” signature arching over the lower sub-dial, a detail that has made the “Big Red” one of the most desirable Daytona variations among collectors. The watch is powered by the manually wound Rolex Caliber 727, an evolution of the Valjoux 72, known for its reliability and precision. With its unmistakable presence, racing heritage, and historical importance, the Rolex Daytona 6265 “Big Red” remains an undisputed grail piece, embodying the golden age of mechanical chronographs and Rolex’s enduring legacy in motorsport.