Some would consider this reference the attempt of perfection when it comes to the Rolex Daytona.

In 1965, 2 years after the introduction of Rolex' initial chronograph with tachymeter scale on the bezel, this reference first saw light. It also happens to be the year our 6240 was conceived. Being one of the very first of this, somewhat experimental, Daytona's.

Unlike the metal bezel one finds on the 6239, this iteration sports an acrylic bezel instead. Arguably enhancing the allure and sportiness. Next to this more aesthetics alteration, they also tried something new with the pushers. Replacing the pump-mechanism with a screw-down feature increased the waterproofness. These very early pushers are known as "millerighe", a moniker adopted by Italian collectors for the richly ridged pushers.

This black dial, with contrasting white sub-dials and print, has the modelname floating underneath "Cosmograph". In the early days of the production, they were still considering what to brand it and where also flirting with "Le Mans"; a different racetrack. This was never used on any dials, but there are many early examples that do not mention the name Daytona either. On this specimen Daytona is printed on it, but in a rather small manner; as if they weren't all to sure about it.

Apart from this interesting lay-out, the dial itself is mesmerizing. Kept in the utmost condition with little to none blemishes. Not only are all lume plots still present, they also aged to an appealing creamy color; matching the inlay of the original handset. Regarding the hands, it is also important to note the thin and blunt second hand is still mounted, whilst on most this has been replaced over time.

This scracely produced reference only saw a production run of less than half a decade. The first models, like this one with 1.29m serial, were equipped with a Valjoux 72B movement.

Usually they came on an Oyster bracelet, but it is always nice to see something out of the ordinary. The folded Jubilee, also from the mid-sixties has fitting 74 end-links. Just like the case, the condition is very strong.