A rare Rolex Cosmograph “Blue” Daytona ref 6262 with Military Provenance.

Featuring a 1 year only production Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref 6262 2.6 million serial # circa 1970. Featuring a fine condition original matte black dial with silver sub dials. The word Daytona is located just above the 6 o’clock register in a silver print, with a faint blue cast. This characteristic has been documented on late production 6239 models as well the 6262 reference, hence the designation “Blue” Daytona. The dial bears the original tritium lume plots, with minor degradation of the plot at 3 o’clock. The hands and dial are all entirely original with no alteration or restoration of the original lume. The dial is especially attractive with no discoloration, soiling, flaking, scratches, or hand drag and with nice contrast between the black background and the white registers.

The 6262 is powered by the caliber 727 manual wind movement, an improvement over the prior generation 722 movement found in the 6239. This model has the screw down twin lock crown and “plunger” pushers. This model features the correct 200mph tachometer bezel. The bezel appears to have been polished, and shows some minor surface dings. There is no corrosion on the inside edges of the case. The case reference 6262 and serial # are all clear and easily read. The inside case back is stamped 6239.

Fitted with a later Rolex stainless steel heavy Oyster bracelet, but retaining the the engraved initials of the owner as well as the U.S. Navy Wings soldered to the clasp. This watch has an interesting Navy and Airforce provenance. The watch was acquired from the original owner who was gifted the watch in 1970 by his father when the son received his Navy aviator wings and had the wings soldered to the clasp. We have come to understand that the owner of the watch reportedly flew the SR-71 “Blackbird,” a high altitude, long range high speed surveillance plane built by the Skunk Works division of Lockheed Martin. At this time, we have no additional photos or written documentation from the owner regarding his military service and his use of the watch, but are still pursuing such documentation.

As shown on the attached service record, the watch was serviced in 2007 through a Portsmouth, New Hampshire authorized dealer. The case was polished, the pushers, case tube and winding crown were replaced, but fortunately the owner declined the recommended change of dial, hands, and bezel.

Overall a scarce and great looking low production Daytona model with a fine military history. The watch has been recently serviced by one of our veteran watchmakers, is guaranteed genuine and as described, and is offered with our 1 year warranty of accurate time keeping and operation.