ROLEX | DAYTONA 'SIGMA DIAL' REF 6263A STAINLESS STEEL CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH REGISTERS AND BRACELET CIRCA 1974

Dial: silveredCaliber: cal. 727 manual winding movement, 17 jewelsCase: stainless steel, solid screw down case backCase number: 4137870, inside case back stamped 6262Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with folding claspDimensions: 37.5 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 180 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: Rolex Guarantee certificate dated December 16, 1976, original stainless steel Rolex Jubilee bracelet without end links, with hand etched case number repeated on the inside folding clasp

CASE The case is in good overall condition, and in our view, has seen a light polishing in its past. The case has some minor scratching visible throughout consistent with the age of the timepiece, and due to wear. The lugs are thick and retain good proportions. The inner caseback is stamped 6262. The second jubilee bracelet has the serial number etched into the inner buckle, which was most likely from the retailer of purchase, however is missing the end links for attachment. DIAL The dial is in good overall condition. There is some minor loss to the printing of the outer track between 1 and 3 o'clock. The 3 o'clock luminous hour marker was most likely relumed. There is minor loss to the luminous hour markers at 3, 4, 6, and 10 o'clock positions. There is some dirt present on the luminous hour markers at 2 and 5 o'clock. Movement: The movement is in good overall condition. The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

Reference 6263 and 6265 entered into production in 1969, replacing the first oyster chronograph, reference 6240.  The present 6263 from 1974 is highly desirable amongst collectors, featuring its original black acrylic tachometer bezel and the extremely sought after 'sigma' dial.   The 'sigma' designation can be found at the 6 o'clock position alongside the T-SWISS-T signature, and indicates that the hour markers are white gold rather than stainless steel.  The silvered dial gives this watch a sporty, yet elegant aesthetic.  The contrasting black subsidiary dials and black acrylic tachometer bezel makes for a more modern look - which is particularly appealing to collectors today. 

The present example is offered completely fresh to the auction market, and was worn lovingly by the original owner for the past several decades since it was originally purchased on December 16, 1976.