Rolex Vintage Daytona 6265 Stainless Steel

Rolex Daytona 6265 (Circa 1973) – Vintage Stainless Steel Chronograph

The Rolex Daytona 6265, introduced around 1971, marks the final generation of manually wound Daytonas. This model is renowned for its signature screw-down pushers and stainless steel bezel, features that have made it one of the most sought-after vintage pieces today. The reference 6265 was offered in various dial configurations, including the black dial with white sub-dials or the silver dial with black registers featured in this example. This particular watch dates back to around 1973 and has a fascinating history.

The watch comes from the original owner, who purchased it in New Mexico in 1975. He led an intriguing life, working as a Los Alamos scientist, a pilot, and a farmer. The Daytona accompanied him during his time at the Los Alamos lab, and it was used for timing tasks like computer benchmarks. He also wore it while flying and farming. A memorable detail is that the original owner had the clasp retrofitted with a flip lock to prevent it from accidentally opening while working on the farm, an interesting modification that we’ve seen a few times with vintage Daytonas.

This watch is in overall great, honest condition, displaying wear consistent with its age. The case shows light scratches and wear, with the inside caseback stamped “6263,” a common occurrence as Rolex often mismatched casebacks across similar models. The bezel is in great shape with minimal signs of wear, and the edges remain sharp. The dial, with its original silver finish and black registers, shows a lovely patina, while the lume plots have aged to a pleasing yellow color, with only minor degradation at the 3 and 6 o’clock positions. The watch retains its correct screw-down pushers and has a Rolex USA Jubilee bracelet with 19 links, displaying some stretch and signs of wear.

The crystal has been replaced with a genuine Rolex service replacement, ensuring the watch is in excellent functional condition. This Daytona 6265 is a piece with a rich history and plenty of character, offering a unique opportunity to own a classic Rolex that has truly lived its life. If you’re looking for a vintage Daytona with a compelling story and a timeless design, this is a great option to consider.